A Leader Remembered: Malaysia and PM Anwar Join Timor-Leste in Mourning
As Timor-Leste remembers a distinguished former Prime Minister, Malaysia and PM Anwar Ibrahim stand beside the ASEAN neighbour with genuine compassion and respect.
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Cambodian Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn Arrives for Malaysia Visit, 3rd Joint Commission Meeting Planned
Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn has arrived in Malaysia for a two-day official visit, during which the two nations will hold their third Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation meeting to review cooperation progress.
Cambodia's Deputy PM Visits Malaysia to Restart Joint Commission After 20 Years
Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn is in Malaysia for a two-day official visit to restart the Malaysia-Cambodia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation, dormant since 2006, as both nations prepare for their 70th diplomatic anniversary.
Thai PM Anutin to Visit Indonesia for First High-Level Talks in 15 Years
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will visit Indonesia on August 3–4 for high-level talks with President Prabowo Subianto, marking the first official Thai PM visit in 15 years and signalling renewed focus on deepening strategic partnership.
ASEAN+3 Must Deepen AI and Energy Ties to Break Free from Dollar Dependence, Says Think Tank
ASEAN+3 economies should accelerate integration of artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure and digital payment systems to reduce reliance on US dollar dominance, according to a new analysis from a regional research office.
Cambodia's Deputy PM Prak Sokhonn to Visit Malaysia for Strategic Bilateral Commission Talks
Cambodia's Deputy Prime Minister Prak Sokhonn will visit Malaysia from August 3 for the 3rd Cambodia–Malaysia Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation meeting in Kuala Lumpur, seeking to strengthen the countries' multifaceted partnership.
Media Crucial to Building ASEAN Unity and Regional Identity, Says Secretary-General Kao
ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn has highlighted the critical importance of professional journalism in building regional cohesion and public understanding as the bloc moves towards ASEAN Community Vision 2045, while warning of growing misinformation threats.
Malaysia to Lead ASEAN Training on Asset Recovery, Drawing on 1MDB Experience
Malaysia's anti-corruption commission will lead a new ASEAN training programme on asset recovery, sharing expertise gained from handling the 1MDB case to strengthen regional corruption-fighting capabilities.
Marcos Hails ASEAN as Philippines' Anchor Amid Global Instability
Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. positioned ASEAN as his nation's most reliable partner during a fifth State of the Nation Address, emphasizing concrete regional initiatives in food security, digital economy, and energy resilience as bulwarks against global uncertainty.
Strong Bilateral Ties and National Stability Key to Malaysia's F1 Grand Prix Selection, Says Anwar
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has credited Malaysia's selection as host for the Formula 1 Grand Prix to the country's stable political environment, robust relationship between Sultan Ibrahim and Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and regional recognition of Malaysia's ASEAN stewardship.
Sultan Nazrin Pushes for Unified Waqf Governance Framework Across Muslim Nations
Sultan Nazrin Shah has advocated for internationally standardised waqf governance principles and digital transparency measures to unlock dormant Islamic endowment assets and boost collaboration across Muslim-majority nations.
Bangladesh Pursues ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner Status with Philippine Support
Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has asked the Philippines to support Dhaka's application for ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner status, during bilateral talks in Manila centred on deepening economic and social cooperation.
Asean Pushes for Safe Hormuz Passage Amid Middle East Disruptions
Asean has called for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, with foreign ministers expressing deep concern about the Middle East conflict's ripple effects on regional economies, energy supplies and maritime security across Asia-Pacific.
Malaysia Braces for 10% US Tariff on Forced Labour Concerns as Engagement Continues
Malaysia has begun paying a 10% US tariff on exports following Washington's forced labour investigation, placing it among 17 countries facing this rate rather than the steeper 12.5% tier.
Trump Moderates Stance on China Election Claims as Rubio Prepares Manila Talks
President Trump has adopted a more measured tone regarding alleged Chinese interference in US elections, acknowledging bilateral tensions are mutual as Secretary of State Marco Rubio prepares for talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila.
US Reinforces Open Seas Commitment as Global Trade Linchpin
The United States has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation globally, particularly in the South China Sea, describing it as essential to regional security and uninterrupted international commerce.
Thailand and US Reaffirm Strategic Partnership as FM Rubio Visits Region
Thailand's Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow met with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Manila, reaffirming bilateral ties and discussing security cooperation, trade negotiations, and Myanmar's role in Asean.
ASEAN and China Report Steady Progress in South China Sea Code of Conduct Negotiations
ASEAN and China are advancing negotiations on a South China Sea code of conduct, with both sides expressing commitment to finalizing the agreement by year-end. Negotiators are focusing on resolving four key issues including legal binding status and geographical scope.
Myanmar's Return to ASEAN Meetings Remains Distant, Says Philippine Foreign Secretary
Myanmar's full reintegration into ASEAN proceedings remains a distant prospect, with Manila signalling the junta must show meaningful progress on the bloc's Five-Point Consensus before resuming its seat at official gatherings.
Kedah Police Dismantle Love Scam Syndicate Targeting Japanese Nationals, Seven Foreigners Held
Kedah police have dismantled a sophisticated online romance scam network that preyed on Japanese nationals, arresting seven foreign operatives running the illicit call centre operation.
Myanmar junta leader to visit Bangkok in August as Thailand pushes for bloc reintegration
Myanmar's junta leader Min Aung Hlaing will meet Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in Bangkok on August 6-7, marking part of Thailand's push to reintegrate the military-ruled nation into ASEAN discussions following the 2021 coup.
Energy Security and West Asia Crisis Dominate ASEAN Dialogue with Major Powers
ASEAN foreign ministers convened with eleven dialogue partners in Manila to prioritize energy and food security amid West Asia tensions, with the US pledging US$1.5 billion in strategic investments for regional infrastructure.
Southeast Asia This Week: Regional Moves on Marine Protection, Energy Security and Leadership Transitions
Indonesia partners with OceanX on marine conservation, ASEAN prioritises energy and food security amid Middle East tensions, and Thailand appoints its new police chief. Leadership transitions reshape governance across the region.
South Korea and ASEAN Chart Ambitious Partnership Agenda in AI and Culture
South Korea and ASEAN have unveiled fresh cooperation frameworks spanning artificial intelligence, creative industries and maritime safety, signalling deeper economic and strategic alignment across the region.
Indonesia Pushes Asean to Act on Regional Pledges Amid Middle East Crisis
Indonesia's foreign minister has challenged Asean to fulfil its commitments and demonstrate credibility as the bloc grapples with escalating geopolitical tensions, including fallout from the Middle East conflict and the stalled South China Sea code of conduct.
Sweden, Poland, Romania and Lithuania Join ASEAN's Treaty of Amity and Cooperation
Four European nations—Sweden, Poland, Romania, and Lithuania—have been admitted as members of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, reflecting growing international confidence in ASEAN's regional leadership and values.
China Summons Philippine Envoy After South China Sea Confrontation
China summoned the Philippine ambassador following a confrontation involving the coast guard at a disputed reef, drawing criticism from the US and regional allies over escalating tensions in contested waters.
South China Sea tensions threaten to derail ASEAN diplomacy as regional divisions deepen
Tensions in the South China Sea threaten to overshadow an ASEAN meeting in Manila, where US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chinese diplomat Wang Yi will both attend. A recent clash between Philippine and Chinese sailors has further complicated regional dynamics.
Indonesian court convicts all 19 members of baby-trafficking syndicate that smuggled infants to Singapore
An Indonesian court has convicted all 19 members of a human-trafficking syndicate accused of smuggling babies to Singapore and beyond. The mastermind, 70-year-old Lie Siu Luan, received a seven-year prison sentence for coordinating the illegal operation.
Foreign Minister Mohamad in Manila for 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting
Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan has arrived in Manila to lead the Malaysian delegation at the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting. The gathering will address regional challenges including the Myanmar crisis and West Asia situation.
Singapore's Wong Extends Warm Welcome to New British PM Burnham
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has congratulated Andy Burnham on his appointment as the United Kingdom's new prime minister, highlighting the nations' enduring Strategic Partnership and expressing confidence in deepening cooperation.
Philippines Leads ASEAN on Security, Rights in Landmark 59th Ministers' Meeting
The Philippines is hosting the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting from July 20-24, bringing together regional and dialogue partners to discuss security, human rights, and geopolitical tensions affecting Southeast Asia and beyond.
Foreign Ministers Gather as Asean Navigates Geopolitical Tensions and Myanmar Crisis
Asean's annual foreign ministers meeting opens in Manila with top diplomats from China, Russia, and the United States attending. The gathering comes amid mounting geopolitical pressures and the continuing Myanmar political deadlock.
Philippines To Lead ASEAN Talks On Myanmar Strategy As Foreign Ministers Convene
The Philippines will host ASEAN foreign ministers next week to chart the bloc's next moves on Myanmar, building on recent in-person talks held in Thailand—the first such meeting since 2021.
Malaysia Pushes For Concrete Action On Urban Development Goals By 2030
Malaysia's Housing Minister Nga Kor Ming has urged the international community to move beyond assessing progress on the New Urban Agenda and deliver tangible results in sustainable urban development before the 2030 deadline.
MACC and Customs Set Up Task Force to Strengthen Port Enforcement and Plug Revenue Gaps
The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission and Royal Malaysian Customs Department have formed a task force to strengthen port enforcement and curb revenue leakages. The maritime industry has welcomed the move as essential for transparency and compliance.
Anwar Offers Birthday Greetings to Brunei's Sultan, Emphasises Regional Partnership
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim extended birthday greetings to Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, using the occasion to underscore the importance of Malaysia-Brunei diplomatic relations and regional stability.
PM Anwar Extends Birthday Greetings to Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah on 80th Milestone
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei on his 80th birthday, expressing hopes for strengthened cooperation between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam.
Bangladesh Elevates Malaysia Partnership, Eyes Closer Regional Ties
Bangladesh has signalled its commitment to strengthening ties with Malaysia, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman choosing the country for his first official bilateral visit. Both nations are accelerating free trade agreement negotiations and exploring broader cooperation.
Philippine Foreign Affairs Chief to Lead ASEAN Humanitarian Mission to Myanmar by Year-End
Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro, acting as ASEAN chair's special envoy, will lead a humanitarian mission to Myanmar by end-2026 to expand aid access in conflict zones.
Malaysia and Thailand Deepen Defence Ties Amid Regional Security Push
Malaysia's Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin met Thailand's newly appointed Defence Minister Lieutenant General Adul Boonthumjaroen to reinforce bilateral defence partnerships and regional stability efforts.
Shinawatra Dynasty Meets Prabowo: Inside the Indonesian Investment Talks
Three members of Thailand's prominent Shinawatra family—former premiers Thaksin, Yingluck, and Paetongtarn—held high-level discussions with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto on investment strategies and economic development.
Malaysia Unveils 'Celebrating Unity' Theme and Tuah Mascot for 2027 SEA Games
Malaysia has unveiled 'Celebrating Unity' as the official theme for the 2027 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games, with Tuah serving as the mascot. The Games will be hosted across four clusters in Sarawak, Penang, Johor and Kuala Lumpur.
ASEAN Reaffirms Myanmar Peace Framework Despite Parliament's Rejection
ASEAN has doubled down on its Five-Point Consensus framework for Myanmar, emphasizing humanitarian aid, violence reduction, and political dialogue. The bloc held its first in-person meeting with Myanmar's foreign minister since 2021, signalling calibrated engagement despite parliamentary rejection.
Singapore President Tharman Emphasises Dialogue and Shared Destiny with Malaysia
Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam arrives in Malaysia emphasising the two nations' deep historical bonds and potential for expanded cooperation on economics, energy, and regional stability.
Philippines to Host Informal ASEAN-Myanmar Talks in Bangkok
The Philippines, holding the ASEAN chair, will facilitate an informal meeting between Myanmar's foreign minister and ASEAN counterparts in Bangkok on July 12, marking the bloc's first direct engagement with Myanmar since the 2021 military coup.
Thailand Prepares to Host Critical ASEAN Talks on Myanmar Crisis
Thailand will host two informal ASEAN Foreign Ministers meetings on Myanmar, chaired by the Philippines, bringing together regional and Myanmar officials to discuss peace efforts and the Five-Point Consensus.
Malaysia and Thailand Resolve Fisheries Dispute, Fast-Track Agriculture Partnership
Malaysia and Thailand have settled longstanding fisheries disputes and agreed to implement a comprehensive Agricultural Cooperation MoU within seven days, signalling strengthened regional food security ties.
Thai PM Anutin to visit Malaysia for border infrastructure and agricultural ties
Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will undertake a two-day official visit to Malaysia to enhance cross-border cooperation and agricultural collaboration with Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim.
Laos and Myanmar deepen ties as Myanmar President concludes landmark state visit
Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing wrapped up a significant state visit to Laos, with both nations pledging deeper cooperation in defence, trade and regional matters. The visit marks 70 years of diplomatic ties between the two Southeast Asian neighbours.
Singapore deepens economic and strategic partnership with Timor-Leste
Singapore and Timor-Leste have signed a bilateral cooperation framework during PM Lawrence Wong's historic first visit as a Singapore prime minister, establishing mechanisms for economic collaboration and announcing worker access from 2027.
Malaysia Leverages Trade Routes and Regional Partnerships to Shape Economic Diplomacy Strategy
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim underscores Malaysia's significance as a trading nation positioned on critical global supply routes, emphasising ASEAN centrality and economic diversification across West Asia, Central Asia, Africa and Latin America.
Malaysia Pledges Unobstructed South China Sea Passage to Belgium Amid Regional Security Concerns
Malaysia has assured Belgium that maritime routes through the South China Sea will remain open and unobstructed, with Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof emphasizing ASEAN's commitment to peace and neutrality in the strategically vital waterway.
Anwar Extends Birthday Greetings to Xi Jinping as Malaysia Marks Half-Century of China Ties
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has sent congratulations to Chinese President Xi Jinping on the 105th anniversary of the Chinese Communist Party, emphasising Malaysia's enduring diplomatic bonds and commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation.
Malaysia Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening ASEAN Amid Regional Challenges
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia's dedication to bolstering ASEAN as a unified, inclusive bloc capable of serving its people's interests during discussions with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn.
Anwar Dismisses South China Sea Conflict Inevitability, Advocates Diplomacy Over Confrontation
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has rejected predictions of inevitable conflict in the South China Sea, arguing that dialogue, mutual trust and respect for international law provide the foundation for regional stability.
Malaysia Must Build Sovereign Cloud Infrastructure To Protect National Data, Says PM Anwar
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has stressed the need for Malaysia to develop its own sovereign cloud infrastructure to protect sensitive national data and personal information, whilst remaining open to global digital investment and maintaining ASEAN centrality.
Malaysia-Singapore Ties Strengthen Despite Global Headwinds, Says Outgoing High Commissioner
Malaysia's outgoing High Commissioner to Singapore credits five years of close cooperation for strengthening bilateral relations. Trade and investment have rebounded to pre-pandemic levels as both nations look to deepen economic integration.
Malaysia and Cambodia Advance Media Cooperation Through Strategic MoU Implementation
Malaysia and Cambodia held bilateral talks in Brunei to advance their newly signed Memorandum of Understanding on Information and Media Development, exploring collaboration in digital transformation and information integrity.
Japan Commits to Deeper Security Partnership With Malaysia as Regional Tensions Mount
Japan's ambassador to Malaysia reaffirmed Tokyo's commitment to strengthening security cooperation during the 72nd Japan Self-Defence Forces Day reception, highlighting bilateral defence exercises and equipment transfers.
Malaysia and Indonesia Chart Closer Halal Industry Partnership
Malaysia and Indonesia are deepening strategic cooperation in the halal industry through proposed regional councils aimed at harmonising standards and expanding bilateral trade opportunities.
ASEAN Seeks Fresh Strategies to Advance Myanmar Peace Framework, Says Mohamad
Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan says ASEAN is pursuing new strategies to reinvigorate implementation of the Five-Point Consensus framework aimed at resolving Myanmar's ongoing crisis.