Politics · Singapore Bureau
Malaysia pledges support for Myanmar's return to ASEAN fold
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has committed to helping Myanmar reintegrate into the regional bloc following talks with the country's military leader. The pledge comes as ASEAN seeks to maintain unity on the crisis-stricken nation.
LSN Singapore ·
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia would exert all efforts to facilitate Myanmar's full re-engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, after meeting with Myanmar's military-backed leader Min Aung Hlaing on Thursday in Kuala Lumpur.
The Malaysian government views Myanmar's integration back into the regional community as a priority, despite the country's ongoing internal conflict and humanitarian challenges. Anwar's comments reflect ASEAN's broader diplomatic approach of maintaining dialogue with Myanmar's military administration while the nation grapples with political instability.
The meeting represents continued high-level engagement between Malaysia and Myanmar at a time when international pressure on the country's military junta has intensified. Malaysia, holding significant diplomatic influence within ASEAN, has positioned itself as a bridge between the regional bloc and Myanmar's leadership.
ASEAN suspended Myanmar's participation in activities following the military coup in February 2021, though the bloc has resisted calls for expulsion. Malaysia's renewed commitment signals efforts to eventually restore Myanmar's standing, contingent on progress toward political resolution.