Attorneys General and prosecutors from ten ASEAN member states have signed a joint declaration aimed at reinforcing cooperation in addressing cross-border crimes. The agreement, known as the Sanur Bali Declaration, was adopted during the ASEAN Prosecutors/Attorneys General Meeting (APAGM) in Sanur, Bali, on Monday, 15 September 2025.
“The signing of the Sanur Bali Declaration is not only a reflection of our shared commitment to realize fair law enforcement in the ASEAN region, but also as an effort to mitigate modern crimes that are cross-jurisdictional,” said the Attorney General as quoted in an official statement.
Rising Complexity of Transnational Crime
In his address, Attorney General Burhanuddin emphasized the increasing challenges in law enforcement across the region. He noted that crimes such as online gambling, fraud schemes, corruption, money laundering, and cross-jurisdictional asset smuggling are growing more complex and require stronger collaboration.
Burhanuddin highlighted that asset recovery across borders has become a critical component in the fight against transnational crime. He underlined the importance of optimal coordination and cooperation, while also stressing the need to respect the diverse legal systems of ASEAN member states.
Strengthening Legal Integration in ASEAN
The Attorney General explained that the APAGM serves as a key platform for enhancing regional legal integration. According to him, the meeting provides a foundation for building an ASEAN community that is secure, just, and prosperous, aligning with the ASEAN Community Vision 2045.
He further described APAGM as a strategic forum for advancing international legal cooperation. This includes strengthening prosecutorial collaboration, developing capacity-building initiatives, and facilitating the exchange of information and experiences among member states’ prosecutorial institutions.
A Landmark in Regional Legal Cooperation
The signing of the Sanur Bali Declaration marks a significant milestone in regional efforts to combat transnational crime. By formalizing commitments at the prosecutorial level, ASEAN member states aim to accelerate collaboration in law enforcement and enhance the effectiveness of legal frameworks across jurisdictions.
The declaration also signals a shared recognition of the need for regional solidarity in confronting evolving criminal threats. It positions the APAGM as a central mechanism for sustaining long-term cooperation among ASEAN prosecutors and attorneys general.
“Let’s use the signing of the Sanur Bali Declaration as a momentum to strengthen the common determination towards a safer, fairer, and more prosperous ASEAN,” he said.
