MALAYSIA'S INTERNATIONAL STANDING CONTINUES TO GROW - MOHAMAD

By Amirul Mohd Sajadi and Nur Syuhada Yusof

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s reputation and standing as an influential power in international diplomacy continue to grow, with the country’s name frequently mentioned in various global conferences and forums, in line with its active role as ASEAN Chair for 2025, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

He said Malaysia is now recognised not only as a successful and stable nation in the region, but also respected by many for its moderate and principled approach in international relations.

“Insya-Allah, Malaysia’s name has always been on the lips of participants at every conference.

“This included the recent United Nations General Assembly, where I was invited to deliver a keynote address on behalf of the Prime Minister,” he told Bernama when observing preparations for the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) today.

He said the continued invitations for Malaysia to participate in prestigious global forums reflect the international community’s confidence in the country’s perspectives and leadership on various regional and global issues.

Mohamad said Malaysia’s performance as ASEAN Chair 2025 is not only measured by the organisation of meetings but also by its success in serving as a bridge between major world powers and regional partners.

“Malaysia is now regarded as a successful nation in the region, especially as we play an active role as ASEAN Chair 2025.

“This not only enhances Malaysia’s image but also strengthens ASEAN’s position as an increasingly respected regional bloc,” he said.

Mohamad said Malaysia is committed to ensuring that the good relations with various countries continue to be strengthened, not only during its ASEAN Chairmanship but also after the role is handed over to the Philippines in 2026.

“We want to ensure that the existing strategic partnerships are not temporary, but continue to be harnessed for mutual benefit,” he said.

Kuala Lumpur will once again become the focus of global attention when more than 3,000 delegates, including world leaders and senior officials, gather here from Oct 26 to 28 for the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, held under the ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.

In addition to ASEAN leaders, other high-profile world leaders scheduled to attend include United States President Donald Trump, Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, European Council president António Costa and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

This marks the fifth time Malaysia has chaired ASEAN since the bloc’s establishment in 1967, following its previous chairmanships in 2015, 2005, 1997 and 1977.

-- BERNAMA