Asean backs US-led Gaza ceasefire as part of peace initiative

FOREIGN Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has expressed Asean's support for efforts to establish a cessation of violence in Gaza, the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan.

Speaking at the Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Mohamad described the plan, titled the 'Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict', as an important step for the people of Gaza.

"For the past two years, the world has borne witness to the unspeakable suffering endured by the Palestinians in Gaza. A tragedy marked by devastating loss of life, mass displacement, and the systematic erosion of hope and dignity," he said.

Mohamad added, "We hope that it will ultimately lead to the realisation of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination, and the establishment of a sovereign and independent State of Palestine."

He also reflected on the current challenges facing the international community, noting that global law and order have been under strain in recent years. "Asean must not turn a blind eye to conflicts beyond its waters while it continues to address the challenges posed within the region," he said.

Highlighting the shifting international landscape, Mohamad said, "As the international landscape becomes increasingly dominated by contestation rather than consensus and division rather than dialogue, Asean finds itself at a crossroads as its space for neutrality and centrality is narrowing, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, and regional security arrangements."

He emphasised Malaysia’s vision for Asean: "As I said at the beginning of Malaysia's stewardship of Asean, we must continue to act as the speakers, and not the spoken for. This will be Asean's most pressing task in the uncertain years that lie ahead."

Under Malaysia's 2025 Asean Chairmanship theme of 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', this year’s summit is expected to be one of the largest in Asean’s history, providing a platform to foster regional collaboration and tackle global challenges.

The summit will also witness Timor-Leste’s active participation in its path to becoming Asean’s 11th member, expected to be formalised on 26 October. Key meetings include the 26th Asean Economic Community Council Meeting, focusing on the AEC Blueprint 2025, and the Asean Geoeconomics Task Force Experts+4 Meeting, addressing strategies to navigate mounting global economic and trade pressures. - October 25, 2025