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MALAYSIA is set to make history as it hosts the largest diplomatic gathering in the region at the 47th ASEAN Summit, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim declared in Parliament today.
“What is remarkable about this ASEAN summit is the representation from all continents—Asia, America, Europe, Latin America, and Africa—each represented by major countries in their respective regions,” said Anwar.
He highlighted the presence of leaders including the Prime Ministers of Australia, Japan, and New Zealand; the President of South Korea; Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister; US President Donald Trump; United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres; Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Canadian Prime Minister; and representatives from China.
Anwar attributed Malaysia’s success in convening these powerful nations to its steadfast commitment to ASEAN centrality and a foreign policy grounded in friendly relations with all parties.
“This approach is not merely out of dedication to ASEAN, but also reflects Malaysia’s broader diplomatic stance, prioritising the interests of our people in trade, international relations, geopolitics, and investment,” he explained.
The Prime Minister emphasised Malaysia’s leadership role in the summit, expressing confidence in the country’s principled stand on key global issues. “We remain consistent in demanding justice, lasting peace, and human dignity concerning Gaza,” he affirmed.
Describing the summit as a revival of ASEAN’s spirit of moderation, solidarity, and shared prosperity, Anwar noted its historic significance with the formal admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member. “This symbolizes inclusivity and the strengthening familial spirit of our region,” he added.
He also underscored Malaysia’s commitment to enhancing dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia to peacefully resolve outstanding disputes, reflecting ASEAN’s dedication to unity and diplomacy.
On Myanmar, Malaysia continues to support peace through principled diplomacy and the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus, seeking security and wellbeing for its people.
Petronas Survey Vessel Surrounded
Turning to regional security, Anwar addressed recent tensions with Indonesia following an incident involving a Petronas survey vessel surrounded by over 100 Indonesian fishing boats.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the matter, he dismissed the need to escalate the issue to Indonesia’s President Prabowo Subianto, citing strong bilateral communication channels.
Petronas operates strictly within Malaysian territorial waters, he stressed. “I have noted concerns raised about disruptions to Petronas but do not believe the matter warrants higher diplomatic escalation,” he told the Dewan Rakyat.
Anwar acknowledged border challenges, including territorial claims in Ambalat, and welcomed proposals for an ASEAN Permanent Border Commission to coordinate regional border issues.
However, he affirmed Malaysia’s current focus remains on bilateral negotiations.
He remarked on the need to safeguard ASEAN’s centrality and sovereignty against major power interference. “We have improved cooperation with neighbours such as Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand but it is premature to consider a NATO-style defence pact, which remains controversial.
The Foreign Ministry will review these proposals,” he added. - October 23, 2025
