Wong’s comments came after a week of high-level diplomacy that placed Singapore in the middle of competing strategic relationships. He attended the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan, where he delivered a keynote speech describing China as an important factor in building a more resilient global order. 

The China visit followed his first official trip to Japan as prime minister earlier in March, during which the two countries upgraded their ties to a strategic partnership, with cooperation planned in areas such as artificial intelligence and the green transition.

He said the back-to-back visits were not designed as a coordinated signal. The Japan trip had originally been planned for 2025 but was postponed, while the Boao invitation arrived separately. The timing ultimately worked out, he said, and allowed him to engage both partners in quick succession.

Ties between China and Japan have been deteriorating, including sharp rhetoric over Taiwan and signs Tokyo may be preparing to downgrade relations with Beijing. Wong said Singapore recognises the relationship is in a “difficult phase”, but insisted it does not see diplomacy as a zero-sum game.

Singapore’s approach, he said, is to maintain “many friends” and avoid taking sides in major-power rivalries.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) said the exchange of attacks had already spread beyond Iran and Israel, with Iran striking targets in several countries including Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria and the United Arab Emirates.

The widening confrontation, ASEAN warned, posed “a grave threat to the lives and safety of civilians” and endangered both regional and global stability.

“We call on all countries to respect international law, including the Charter of the United Nations,” the foreign ministers said.

In the statement, the ministers also underscored that the escalation came while diplomatic efforts were still underway, pointing to mediation initiatives led by Oman that were aimed at advancing a negotiated solution.

ASEAN described the timing of the attacks as “particularly regrettable,” highlighting concerns that military action had derailed ongoing attempts to defuse tensions.

The bloc called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” and urged all parties to exercise “utmost self-restraint” to prevent further escalation.

It also warned against actions that could worsen the crisis and called on all sides to resolve their differences through dialogue and diplomacy .

The ministers reaffirmed that all states must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations and resolve disputes through peaceful means in line with international law and the UN Charter.

Beyond the geopolitical fallout, ASEAN said member states were closely coordinating to assist citizens caught in the crisis.

The bloc reaffirmed its commitment to providing emergency assistance to ASEAN nationals in the Middle East, including through coordinated consular support under existing regional guidelines for crisis situations.

The death toll from a landslide in Indonesia’s West Java province rose to 17 on Monday, as search and rescue operations entered a third day, disaster officials said. The landslide, triggered by heavy rain, struck a village in West Bandung regency early on Saturday, burying homes and forcing dozens of residents to evacuate. The National Disaster Mitigation Agency said around 80 people were still missing as of Sunday, with no updated figure provided. Rescuers are working cautiously amid unstable ground and ongoing bad weather, which have raised fears of further landslides. Thousands of personnel and heavy equipment have been deployed to locate victims.

Indonesia finishes second at ASEAN Para Games with 135 gold medals

Indonesia finished second in the final medal standings of the 2025 ASEAN Para Games , winning 135 gold, 143 silver and 114 bronze medals across 18 sports contested from January 19 to 25 in Thailand. The result exceeded the government’s target of 82 gold medals and surpassed expectations after consistent performances throughout the week-long competition. Para athletics led Indonesia’s medal haul with 44 golds, followed by para swimming with 29 golds. Strong contributions also came from para badminton, para powerlifting and para judo. Indonesia had aimed to finish at least in the top three.

Environment ministry sues six firms over North Sumatra disaster

Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment has filed a civil lawsuit against six companies in North Sumatra, seeking Rp4.9 trillion (US$282 million) in damages for allegedly worsening hydrometeorological disasters in the province. Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofiq said the case is being processed in court and more lawsuits will follow against other entities. The ministry is also investigating possible criminal offences by companies in Aceh and North Sumatra with the National Police. Authorities are monitoring 68 companies across Aceh, North Sumatra and West Sumatra, all of which have received administrative sanctions requiring mandatory environmental audits as part of wider enforcement efforts nationwide.

ATM numbers fall as digital banking accelerates

Indonesia’s ATM network is expected to keep shrinking as digital banking and cashless payments gain ground, the Financial Services Authority (OJK) said. OJK chief banking supervisor Dian Ediana Rae said banks are cutting physical infrastructure in response to changing customer behaviour driven by financial technology. OJK data show the number of ATMs and related machines fell to 89,774 units in the third quarter of 2025, from 91,173 a year earlier, a net drop of nearly 1,400 machines. Rae said mobile and online banking have reduced the need for cash withdrawals, while banks are prioritising efficiency by expanding digital services. The shift supports Indonesia’s move towards a more cashless economy.

Indonesia receives first batch of fighter jets from France

Indonesia has received three Rafale fighter jets from France, marking the first delivery under a 2021 defence deal, the defence ministry said on Monday. The aircraft arrived on Friday, with a formal handover ceremony to be held later. Three additional jets are expected to arrive this year. Indonesia has ordered 42 Rafales worth $8.1 billion as part of efforts to modernise its military amid rising regional tensions. Jakarta has also agreed to buy two French-made Scorpene-class submarines, to be built domestically with technology transfer.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship as a showcase of national unity, professionalism, and economic leadership. Speaking at the ASEAN Chairmanship Appreciation Ceremony, he thanked government staff, security forces, and even cleaning personnel for their contributions, highlighting smooth event management and cultural showcases. Anwar emphasised teamwork across races, religions, and ministries, linking success to clear policies, firm leadership, and anti-corruption measures. He stressed Malaysia’s desire to be recognised for economic management, AI adoption, and renewable energy initiatives, while also showing care for fellow ASEAN nations, including supporting Timor-Leste’s formal admission as the bloc’s 11th member.

Malaysia eyes first dollar bond sale since 2021 amid strong markets

Malaysia is considering issuing US dollar-denominated bonds this year, its first such sale since 2021, as global credit markets rally and borrowing costs ease. The Finance Ministry said it has sought proposals from banks, partly to refinance dollar bonds maturing in 2026, including a US$1 billion Islamic note due in April. The move comes as spreads on Asian dollar debt hit record lows and after Malaysia’s economy grew a stronger-than-expected 5.7% in the fourth quarter, lifting full-year growth above forecasts. However, officials expect growth to slow to 4–4.5% this year amid rising global volatility and geopolitical risks.

Tighter expatriate hiring rules set higher pay floors, tenure caps

Malaysia will revise its expatriate employment framework from June 1, 2026, tightening rules under the Employment Pass system to prioritise senior and specialist foreign talent. Minimum salary thresholds will rise sharply, with Category I roles requiring at least RM20,000 a month, while Category II and III posts face higher, more clearly defined pay bands. New limits will also cap expatriate tenure at up to 10 years for senior roles and five years for junior categories. The government says the changes address salary compression with local professionals and aim to strengthen skills transfer, succession planning and the progression of Malaysians into leadership roles.

Malaysia’s king urges unity, prioritises national interest amid autonomy debate

Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar urged lawmakers to prioritise national interests over state rights, calling for unity, restraint and maturity in resolving political differences. Addressing parliament on January 19, he said any education system seeking recognition must use the Malay language and reflect Malaysia’s history. He reaffirmed respect for state rights but stressed they must not override the country’s collective interests, citing the 1963 Malaysia Agreement as a foundation for cooperation between states and the federal government. His remarks come amid renewed autonomy demands from Sabah and Sarawak, and follow a court ruling ordering the federal government to settle Sabah’s long-disputed revenue share.

Laos, Thailand, Malaysia advance ASEAN power grid with cross-border deal

Laos, Thailand and Malaysia have signed a new electricity transmission agreement under the Laos-Thailand-Malaysia–Singapore Power Integration Project, marking a step forward in ASEAN’s regional energy integration. The deal enables the cross-border transmission of 100 megawatts of electricity from Laos to Singapore via existing power networks in Thailand and Malaysia, over a two-year contract period. Signed in Bangkok on Jan 14 by state power utilities from the three countries, the agreement advances the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, aimed at strengthening energy security, improving resource efficiency and supporting sustainable economic growth through regional electricity trade.

Queen Suthida served as tactician and helmswoman, roles that placed her in charge of steering and race strategy, which are crucial due to changing wind conditions in the Gulf of Thailand.

The final races were held at Ocean Marina Yacht Club in Sattahip, Chonburi, where the sailing events have run since December 15. The SSL47 class is appearing at the SEA Games for the first time.

Teams from Vietnam, the Philippines , Malaysia and Myanmar competed in the category. The boats lack safety lines, increasing the physical demands on crews during racing.

The queen is expected to receive her medal from King Maha Vajiralongkorn, 73, whom she married in 2019. 

Before joining the royal household, Queen Suthida worked as a flight attendant for Thai Airways after completing a degree in communications. She later entered military service.

She has also built a public sporting profile. Earlier this month, she ran a half-marathon in Bangkok, finishing alongside Kenyan marathon runner Eliud Kipchoge.

Her feat is not without precedent; King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the late father of the current monarch, won sailing gold at the regional Games in 1967 in a boat he built himself, competing with his daughter Princess Ubolratana.

The SEA Games conclude on Saturday, with host nation Thailand leading the medal table ahead of Indonesia and Vietnam. Cambodia withdrew shortly before the opening ceremony, citing security concerns following renewed border tensions.

The Games were first launched in Bangkok as the “SEAP Games,” before expanding in 1977 to include all Southeast Asian nations.

Across 32 completed editions, Southeast Asia has seen a wide range of records set . 

Thailand remains the winningest nation in SEA Games history, with 13 overall titles, ahead of Indonesia’s 10 and Vietnam’s three. 

Vietnam holds the mark for the most gold medals in a single edition, winning 205 golds at the 2021 Hanoi Games. It was the first time any country surpassed 200 gold medals.

The SEA Games have grown not only in the level of competition but also in scale. The 2023 Phnom Penh SEA Games recorded 6,210 athletes — the highest participation on record — and marked Cambodia’s return as host after six decades.

Individual athletes have contributed their own milestones . Singapore’s Joscelin Yeo remains the most successful SEA Games athlete with 40 gold medals from eight appearances. Fellow Singaporean Eileen Chai Ee Juang is the youngest athlete ever to compete, joining the 1985 Games at age seven.

Conversely, Filipino billiards icon Efren Reyes competed at the 2021 Games at 68, making him the oldest known SEA Games athlete. Since his debut in 1987, Reyes has taken part in 11 editions and won six gold medals.

Host nations have also played a major role in shaping the competition. Manila holds the record for the most sports in a single edition, staging 56 events in 2019. This year’s Games in Thailand feature 50 sports and four demonstration events, with 574 gold medals at stake.

As competition continues across Thailand, the 2025 SEA Games are poised to add another chapter to a regional sporting tradition now more than six decades old.

Beijing’s defence spokesman, Zhang Xiaogang, had issued a sharp warning to the Philippines over the South China Sea dispute, accusing Manila of “blackmailing the big by the small.”

“Would you offer to talk to somebody who slammed your country that way? Of course not,” Teodoro told reporters, as shown by state-run media PTV. “I would be willing to talk if there was a semblance of good faith.” 

Teodoro described Zhang’s remarks as a “slap to the face.”

The two countries have long been at odds over sections of the South China Sea that China claims under its “nine-dash line” but which international law recognises as within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone. 

Despite a 2016 arbitral tribunal ruling in Manila’s favour, Beijing continues to reject the decision, and the contested waters remain flashpoints between their coast guards.

Zhang accused the Philippines of provoking China and “making waves at sea by soliciting external support,” but insisted Beijing would continue to defend its maritime rights through “legitimate, legal, professional and prudent actions.”

"For a period of time, the Philippine side has launched frequent infringements and provocations against China, stirring up troubles at sea," he said, further accusing Manila of trying to "make waves at sea by soliciting external support, blackmailing and pressuring China through bluffing acts that resemble the fox borrowing the tiger's terror."

"We would never allow any provocations and trouble-making to work, nor would we leave any room for blackmailing the big by the small," he continued.

Chinese President Xi Jinping did not attend the ASEAN Summit, though he and Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. later met briefly at the APEC Summit in South Korea. 

There, Marcos — who is preparing to host the ASEAN Summit next year — congratulated Xi on receiving the torch to host the next APEC Summit.

These nations came together with a simple but powerful goal to build peace, stability, and economic growth in a region that had seen its share of conflict.

Over the years, more countries joined the club. Brunei joined in 1984, followed by Vietnam in 1995. Then Laos and Myanmar joined in 1997, and Cambodia completed the ten-member group in 1999.

Fast forward to 2025, and Timor-Leste (East Timor) officially becomes ASEAN’s newest and youngest member .

Today, ASEAN represents over 700 million people and is one of the world’s fastest-growing regions. But what makes this expansion so interesting isn’t just the numbers but what they mean.

For a small country like Timor-Leste, joining ASEAN means access to bigger markets, stronger partnerships, and a seat at the table in regional decision-making. For the older members, it’s a sign that ASEAN is still growing, adapting, and staying relevant in a rapidly changing world.

Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. The region faces big challenges from economic inequality to political tensions and competition between global powers like the U.S. and China .

As Reuters has already reported , ASEAN’s new economic integration plan aims to strengthen unity and make the region more competitive, but balancing national interests will always be tricky.

“In the face of power politics and economic bullying, disunity and confrontation will not only yield no benefits, but will also lead to division and domination by external forces,” Li said. “The more severe the situation is, the more determined we should be to unite and strengthen ourselves.”

His remarks came just a day after US President Donald Trump appeared before ASEAN, where he spearheaded the signing of a peace deal between Cambodia and Thailand.

During his short trip to Kuala Lumpur, Trump, who’s now in Japan for bilateral talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, secured four key economic deals with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand , and Vietnam.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of host country Malaysia said both China and the US’ appearances at the ASEAN prove the bloc’s ability to foster strong relations with other countries. 

“The day before we were here with President Donald Trump of the United States of America, and today we are back with China,” he said. “That reflects ASEAN's centrality, and I commend and congratulate my colleagues in ASEAN for the wisdom to maintain centrality and maintain friendly relations with all our countries.”

“This is what we consider a steady engagement that fosters trust, that enables us to work through challenges together,” he added.

“I hope that this chemistry bears fruit for the Brazilian people and the American people,” Lula said. “Someday I'm going to tell him that we can solve this Russia-Ukraine war, because the war is at its point of maturity. You see, it's already been three years of war. Trump, Putin already know what they want, the elected officials already know what they want. Everyone knows what they're going to get. What's missing is putting this on the negotiating table.”

The Brazilian leader added that he believes “the world is getting to the point of ending this war — and not waging any more wars.”

Lula’s remarks came during a press conference following the 47th ASEAN Summit, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from October 26 to 28. The event gathered leaders from 11 Southeast Asian nations, along with partner countries including the United States and Brazil.

Cambodia has begun pulling back heavy weapons from its border with Thailand, marking the first phase of implementing the peace agreement signed in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. Defence Ministry spokeswoman Lieutenant General Maly Socheata said the withdrawal began late on October 26, with ASEAN observers inspecting returning armoured vehicles in Siem Reap the following morning. The move follows the joint declaration signed by Prime Ministers Hun Manet and Anutin Charnvirakul, witnessed by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian leader Anwar Ibrahim.

General suspended for pistol-whipping woman in traffic dispute

Cambodia’s National Military Police have suspended Brigadier General Chhim Chhem and referred his case to the Phnom Penh Municipal Court after he pistol-whipped a woman during a traffic altercation. Chhem is charged with “intentional acts of violence” under Article 217 of the Criminal Code, which carries a sentence of six months to three years. Authorities said Chhem attacked 20-year-old Pen Sokna after she blocked his car and demanded $5 in compensation for damage to her motorcycle. He has admitted guilt and pledged to compensate the victim.

Cambodia to scrap all tariffs on US goods under landmark trade deal

Cambodia will remove all tariffs on US industrial and agricultural products under a new trade agreement announced by the White House, granting American exporters unprecedented market access. The deal, signed alongside the ASEAN Summit, commits Cambodia to eliminate duties on US food, machinery and manufactured goods, while Washington will maintain a 19% reciprocal tariff, except for certain products that will face none. Phnom Penh also pledged to cut non-tariff barriers, recognise US safety and agricultural standards, and bolster labour, environmental and intellectual property protections. President Trump hailed the pact as “a forward-looking and tough trade deal” benefiting American workers and farmers.

Four foreigners arrested in Siem Reap over online ‘love scam’

Cambodian authorities have arrested four foreign nationals in Siem Reap for allegedly running a cryptocurrency “love scam” targeting victims abroad. The joint operation, carried out on October 24 by provincial police and prosecutors, led to the arrest of three Chinese men — Xiao Song, Han Jiajia and Qin Cilong — and a Vietnamese woman, Luong Thi Que, at a rented villa in Sala Kanseng Village. Officers seized computers, phones and other evidence. The suspects admitted to posing as online romantics to defraud victims. Officials said the arrests form part of Cambodia’s wider crackdown on technology-based crime.

Cop killed in Kampong Thom drug raid

A police officer was killed and another seriously injured after a drug dealer opened fire with an AK-47 during a crackdown in Kampong Thom province on October 23. The shooting occurred in Bek Chan village, Taing Kork district, when suspect Thorn Dina, 29, and an accomplice opened fire on officers, killing Lieutenant Colonel Huon Saway and injuring Lieutenant Colonel Tim Channy. The suspects fled on a motorbike toward Kampong Cham province. Police have launched a manhunt. 

Alongside the peace deal, Trump announced a raft of new trade and defence agreements with Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam, signalling a renewed US economic push in a region increasingly shaped by China’s influence.

Malaysia emerged as the biggest economic winner. Under a new reciprocal trade agreement, Kuala Lumpur will cut or eliminate nearly all tariffs on US exports, ending long-standing barriers on American agricultural goods, motor vehicles, and industrial products. The deal also commits Malaysia to recognise US regulatory standards, streamlining future trade.

The United States and Malaysia further elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a move accompanied by major commercial deals. These include multi-year agreements for up to $3.4 billion in annual LNG purchases, $42.6 million in coal sales, and a landmark order for 30 Boeing aircraft with an option for 30 more.

Additional purchases of US semiconductors, aerospace components, and data centre equipment are expected to total $150 billion. The two countries also signed an MOU on critical minerals, expanding cooperation across exploration, extraction, and manufacturing.

Cambodia also gained from Trump’s visit. In exchange for signing the peace accord, Phnom Penh secured the removal of a US arms embargo and an agreement to restart the Angkor Sentinel joint defence exercise, suspended since 2017. Cambodian officers will also gain more training opportunities at American military academies.

Trump and Prime Minister Hun Manet agreed to deepen collaboration against transnational crime, including cyber scams and narcotics trafficking, which Washington says cost Americans billions each year.

In Thailand, Trump and Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced a new framework for reciprocal trade that could eliminate tariff barriers on 99% of goods. They also signed a memorandum to boost cooperation on critical minerals, cybercrime , and supply chain resilience.

Vietnam joined the list of beneficiaries as Trump unveiled a framework for a fair and balanced trade agreement that would grant preferential market access to nearly all US industrial and agricultural exports.

Trump’s short visit ended with him attending the annual US-ASEAN Summit, where he pledged America ’s continued commitment to regional peace and prosperity. 

But one figure stood out: among the heads of state was a non-leader.

At the far end of the line stood U Hau Khan Sum, the permanent secretary of Myanmar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He was there in place of his country’s leader, barred from attending.

The absence traces back to Myanmar’s turbulent recent history.

In 2021, the military seized power from the elected government, detaining Aung San Suu Kyi and installing a junta under Min Aung Hlaing. The coup sparked a civil war that has killed tens of thousands, with the military now controlling only about a fifth of the country.

Although the junta handed authority to an interim civilian government in July and announced plans for elections in December, observers warn the move could simply legitimise military rule.

ASEAN’s response has been firm. In 2021, the bloc — including Hlaing himself — adopted a five-point peace plan to end the violence and foster dialogue. Four years later, progress has been negligible.

Citing the junta’s failure to implement the plan, ASEAN has continued to bar Myanmar’s military leaders from attending high-level meetings. The country was also stripped of its turn to host the 2026 summits, a responsibility now passed to the Philippines .

Some member states have floated the idea of reintegrating Myanmar’s leadership, arguing that engagement might yield results. Yet for now, as the world ’s most influential leaders gather for the 47th ASEAN Summit, Myanmar remains on the sidelines.

Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to halt border hostilities and release 18 detained soldiers under a “peace deal” signed on Sunday and witnessed by US President Donald Trump at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. Trump hailed the accord, signed by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian leader Hun Manet, as “an incredible job for humanity.” The joint declaration commits both nations to withdraw heavy weapons, remove landmines and resolve disputes peacefully. Trump, who credited US mediation for averting further conflict, also announced upcoming trade and minerals agreements with the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

Thailand begins year-long funeral for former queen Sirikit

Thailand began a year-long funeral for former queen Sirikit on Sunday, as mourners gathered in Bangkok to pay respects to the “Mother of the Nation.” The 93-year-old royal, mother of King Vajiralongkorn and wife of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, died on Friday after years of illness. Her body was moved from Chulalongkorn Hospital to the Grand Palace, where it will lie in state for a year before cremation. Citizens have been asked to wear muted colours and suspend celebrations for 90 days. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul delayed his ASEAN trip to attend the initial ceremonies.

Anutin asserts authority to dissolve parliament early 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has reaffirmed his right to dissolve Parliament at any time, hinting that he could do so before the agreed January deadline. Speculation has mounted that Anutin may call an early election to pre-empt a possible censure motion against his minority coalition. While the constitutional amendment process has advanced past its first reading, Anutin said, “If that day comes, let the people decide.”

Pheu Thai may choose non-Shinawatra leader after Paetongtarn’s exit

The opposition Pheu Thai Party will hold a general assembly on October 31 to elect a new leader following Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s resignation amid a credibility slump tied to her leaked phone call with Cambodian leader Hun Sen. Party elections director Suriya Juangroongruangkit said the next leader “may not be a Shinawatra,” but denied rumours he would take the post, saying he is “too old” and prefers new-generation leadership. He dismissed reports that his family pressured Paetongtarn to quit, calling them “completely untrue,” and vowed to restore the party’s strength ahead of the next general election.

Thailand urges regional action on online scams at ASEAN Summit

Thailand is calling for stronger regional cooperation to combat online scams and cybercrime , as well as to deepen economic ties, ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28. Bolbongse Vangphaen, the director-general of the Department of ASEAN Affairs, said Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and fellow leaders will reaffirm their commitment to peace, digital growth and sustainability amid global instability. Thailand, which chairs ASEAN’s digital economy negotiations, is pushing the “Bangkok Declaration Against Online Scams” and a joint declaration on cybercrime.

The US president marked his arrival with his trademark fist-pumping dance — a move that has long drawn both amusement and ridicule during his political rallies.

Beyond the theatrics, Trump’s visit carries weight. 

His first order of business is to oversee a peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia, two neighbours whose border tensions have turned deadly in recent years.

Trump is also expected to raise issues of trade and regional security with Southeast Asian leaders, many of whom are increasingly anxious about China’s assertiveness in the region.

The U.S. President expressed appreciation for Malaysia’s hospitality, calling his visit to Kuala Lumpur “an amazing experience.” He added that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had gone to great lengths to showcase the country’s achievements during the visit.

“I’ve been here for a day, but it’s been an amazing experience to see some of the things that you’ve done,” Trump said. “The Prime Minister made sure I saw everything — every single thing.”

Trump also praised ASEAN leaders as “spectacular leaders” and “incredible people,” applauding what he described as their “energy and genius.”

“I say it truly — everything you touch turns to gold, and you can be very proud of it,” he said. “Other parts of the world are not like this. You’re very special people, and it’s a very, very special place.”

The 47th ASEAN Summit, taking place from October 26 to 28 in Kuala Lumpur, brings together leaders from ASEAN member states and key partners, including China, Japan, and the United States .

Even some top honchos will mark a first at the ASEAN Summit, too. 

Of course, leaders of the 10 ASEAN member states are present: Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim, Brunei’s Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, Cambodia’s Hun Manet, Indonesia’s Prabowo Subianto, Laos’ Sonexay Siphandone, Philippines’ Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Singapore’s Lawrence Wong, Thailand ’s Anutin Charnvirakul and Vietnam’s Pham Minh Chinh. 

Only Myanmar’s titular leader, Min Aung Hlaing, will not attend the high-level summit. A military junta leader, he has been banned from the ASEAN Summit since 2021 for rejecting the bloc’s five-point peace plan. 

Sanae Takaichi, the new leader of the big continental player Japan, will mark her diplomatic debut in Kuala Lumpur. There, she is expected to talk with US President Donald Trump about their strategic alliance in the contested waters region.

Parallels have been drawn between Takaichi and Trump; both rose to power by climbing the conservative ranks, have been viewed as polarising leaders, and have had a hardliner stance on immigration . 

Trump himself marks a first in ASEAN. It will be the first stop of his three-country Asia tour that will also include Japan and then South Korea, which is his first journey around the region since returning to the White House in 2024. 

On the other end of the global powers totem, China’s delegation will be led by Premier Li Qiang. Other attendees from Asia-Pacific include Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. 

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Canrey will be present, too. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend, albeit virtually. 

Non-state leaders who will participate include United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and World Bank Vice President for East Asia and the Pacific Carlos Jaramillo. 

These leaders are expected to pore over some of the most contentious issues hounding Southeast Asia, including threats of Chinese aggression, border disputes between member states Thailand and Cambodia, and Trump’s tariffs. 

The Malaysian government has issued a strong call for the immediate release of volunteers detained while delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. These volunteers, who were part of a flotilla mission carrying essential supplies such as food, medical equipment, and shelter materials, were intercepted in international waters. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim condemned the detentions, describing them as a violation of international law and humanitarian principles. Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry is engaging with international partners and human rights organisations to secure the volunteers’ release and ensure their safe return home. The incident has stirred public outrage, with Malaysians expressing solidarity through nationwide vigils and social media campaigns. The government reiterated its commitment to defending humanitarian missions and supporting Palestinian civilians enduring severe hardship under continued conflict.

Anwar to meet NGO leaders to discuss humanitarian aid for Gaza via Egypt

In an ongoing effort to coordinate relief for Gaza, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced plans to meet with non-governmental organisation (NGO) leaders to discuss the logistics of channelling humanitarian aid through Egypt. The meeting aims to create a unified Malaysian relief framework that ensures aid delivery to affected civilians despite border restrictions. The discussion will include NGOs specialising in medical assistance, food distribution, and refugee support. Anwar emphasised that Malaysia’s humanitarian stance transcends political or religious lines, reflecting the nation’s moral obligation to assist the oppressed. He also called for greater collaboration among regional governments to pressure for safe humanitarian corridors into Gaza. The government’s proactive approach underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a humanitarian advocate in international crisesNews Briefs 9.10.

Indonesia appoints Iman Hascarya Kusumo as ambassador to Malaysia

Indonesia has officially appointed Iman Hascarya Kusumo as its new Ambassador to Malaysia, a move widely viewed as an opportunity to strengthen bilateral relations between the two neighbouring nations. The appointment comes at a pivotal time as both countries seek to deepen cooperation on issues including migrant labour protection, trade, and education. Kusumo, known for his diplomatic experience and focus on ASEAN collaboration, is expected to prioritise enhancing mutual understanding and addressing long-standing concerns regarding worker welfare. Malaysian officials have welcomed his appointment, expressing optimism that it will usher in a new era of balanced and transparent diplomacy. Both governments reaffirmed their shared commitment to fostering peace, regional integration, and economic resilience in Southeast Asia.

Need for flexible foreign policy that remains true to core values, says Tok Mat

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan (Tok Mat) has emphasised the importance of a flexible yet principled foreign policy in navigating Malaysia’s complex geopolitical landscape. He stated that while Malaysia must adapt to shifting global dynamics, it should never compromise on its core values of peace, justice, and mutual respect. Tok Mat highlighted that non-alignment remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s diplomatic strategy, allowing the nation to engage constructively with both Western and Eastern blocs. He also urged policymakers to strengthen regional diplomacy through ASEAN and to assert Malaysia’s voice on pressing international issues such as humanitarian crises, environmental sustainability, and fair trade. His remarks reflect a strategic balance between pragmatism and moral conviction in Malaysia’s approach to global affairs.

Malaysia ready to support any UN peacekeeping effort in Palestine

During a parliamentary session, members of the Dewan Rakyat were informed that Malaysia stands ready to support any United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission in Palestine should one be established. The government expressed its readiness to contribute personnel, logistics, and medical support to ensure peace and stability in the region. Lawmakers across party lines voiced strong backing for the initiative, highlighting Malaysia’s historical solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Malaysia’s participation would align with its long-standing policy of advocating for oppressed peoples and upholding international law. The announcement has strengthened Malaysia’s image as a defender of global peace and humanitarian principles, while also reflecting growing domestic demand for more active involvement in international peacekeeping