A SINGLE DOT, A POWERFUL MESSAGE: MALAYSIANS HAIL PM ANWAR'S ASEAN LEADERSHIP

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 29 (Bernama) --  A photo of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim posted on his official Facebook page without any caption – and just a single dot – has captured the attention of many social media users.

The post, uploaded on Monday afternoon, shows the Prime Minister cleaning his glasses while seated in a vehicle. It has since received more than 32,000 likes and over 3,000 comments.

In the comments section, thousands of Facebook users took the opportunity to congratulate the Prime Minister, or PMX, for his dedication and success in leading Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship this year, which culminated in the smooth hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings that concluded yesterday.

One user, AT Tan, praised Anwar’s stamina during the busy week of meetings: “Very tiring meeting and dialogue… none of our previous PMs did this before – meeting and welcoming more than 20 world leaders at the same time.”

Another, Norzil Mat, expressed admiration and empathy for the Prime Minister: “The majority of Malaysians are proud of you, PMX. May Allah reward all your good deeds. It’s not an easy task, but Datuk Seri has created a remarkable legacy.”

Jia Chean Lim also voiced pride in the nation’s leadership: “Malaysia continues to shine on the ASEAN stage! Thank you, PMX, for your great vision and leadership. Proud to be Malaysian!”

Mohd Hasni Izuwan added: “Composure, wisdom and focus – a leader deep in thought for the nation’s future. Thank you, Sir Anwar Ibrahim. History will remember your tireless efforts for Malaysia.”

Another user, Norh Fork, left a brief remark: “Sometimes being silent is the best way to conquer the negative approaches.”

Many others left heartfelt wishes. “Rest well, PMX. You’ve worked so hard travelling here and there. May Allah protect you,” wrote Mohd Saiful; while Vigneswary Jeevajothy added: “Thank you, Dato’ Seri, for all your efforts and hard work for the nation. You’re doing an amazing job. Please take care and stay healthy always.”

Comments of appreciation also came from Cambodia. Moona Ka wrote: “Cambodian people would like to respect and thank you so much for your great work on the ceasefire signing agreement,” while Sodalin Sok added, “Besides, Malaysian people love u, now u earn much love from Cambodian people, sir.”

Speaking yesterday at the closing ceremony of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Anwar said Malaysia had carried out its duties as ASEAN Chair for 2025 with unity, patience and strong leadership.

He said the success of the regional bloc was not only measured by the signing of documents but also by the discipline to act with patience, to develop at its own pace, and to remain calm amid uncertainty.

Since taking over the chairmanship from Laos, Malaysia has focused on strengthening unity, inclusivity and sustainability.

Two key achievements marked this period – the admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member and the signing of the KL Peace Accord between Cambodia and Thailand.

Since the bloc’s establishment in 1967, this is the fifth time Malaysia has held the ASEAN chair, following its previous terms in 1977, 1997, 2005 and 2015.

Yesterday, Malaysia officially handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship to the Philippines, symbolising the transition of leadership as Malaysia enters the final phase of its 2025 chairmanship.

-- BERNAMA