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A DIPLOMATIC gathering briefly turned festive when Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva celebrated his birthday during the ASEAN Summit.
Delegates surprised him with a small cake, and the room filled with applause and laughter as several leaders joined in a multilingual rendition of “Happy Birthday.”
President Lula, joked that it was “the most formal birthday party I’ve ever had.”
For a few minutes, the high-level discussions paused to make space for something simpler—shared warmth and genuine goodwill among global peers.
White House Pen
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received a specially crafted pen from US president Donald Trump as a diplomatic gift during the Summit. The pen was presented as a symbol of leadership and the power of dialogue.
The pen, reportedly an official “White House” issue, instantly became a small diplomatic memento reflecting mutual respect between the two leaders.
As he prepared to sign a joint declaration, Anwar lightheartedly remarked, “I’d better not lose this one,” prompting laughter from nearby leaders.
Later, aides confirmed that the Prime Minister indeed kept the pen, calling it a “personal souvenir of goodwill.”
Trick or Treat
Timor-Leste’s delegation added a touch of hospitality to the ASEAN Summit by distributing traditional sweets to journalists covering the event.
The gesture quickly became a talking point among media personnel, offering a rare and heartwarming pause amid tight deadlines and policy discussions.
“We wanted to share a little taste of home,” one delegate said with a smile, handing out neatly wrapped coconut confections.
In an environment often defined by protocol and precision, the young nation’s thoughtful outreach reminded everyone that diplomacy is also human connection.
Anwar and The Beast
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim caught the attention of onlookers when he was offered a tour—and a brief ride—in “The Beast,” the US President’s famed armored limousine.
Known for its near-impenetrable design, the vehicle is a rare sight even among world leaders.
Anwar appeared intrigued as he examined its features, reportedly remarking with a smile, “Now this is serious protection.”
The moment, lighthearted and unscripted, drew amused reactions from other delegates and staff.
Images of Anwar together with Trump with the high-security vehicle quickly circulated online.
Trump Dance
U.S. President Donald Trump added an element of levity to the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit when he reprised his familiar rally dance—a side-to-side arm motion that has become an international meme.
The unexpected moment drew laughter from the audience, with several attendees joining in the playful rhythm. “That’s vintage Trump,” one observer quipped.
While brief, the episode underscored Trump’s instinct for showmanship and ability to lighten a room. – October 28, 2025
