Kuala lumpur: The 20th East Asia Summit held in Malaysia emphasized the need for ‘engagement’ to address global crises, reinforcing its dedication to peace, multilateralism, and adherence to international law. The summit was chaired by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur and gathered leaders from across the globe and the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the summit’s role as a platform for ‘dialogue, balance, and cooperation.’ The participants reiterated their pledge to pursue ‘peace, multilateralism, and international law,’ favoring engagement over coercion and cooperation over confrontation.

Anwar expressed support for US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza, labeling it a ‘vital step toward lasting peace.’ He also addressed the ongoing situation in Myanmar, emphasizing the importance of respecting ceasefires, ensuring unobstructed aid delivery, and continuing inclusive dialogue for the restoration of democracy.

Regarding the South China Sea disputes involving China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan, Anwar stated that the summit insists on a resolution led by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), grounded in international law, notably the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), without succumbing to ‘external pressure.’

Anwar underscored that the path out of any crisis lies in engagement, not isolation, whether in Gaza, Myanmar, Ukraine, or North Korea, and highlighted that diversity serves as a unifying strength rather than a barrier.

Separately, during the 15th ASEAN-UN Summit, Anwar reaffirmed ASEAN’s robust partnership with the United Nations, which is founded on common objectives of peace, prosperity, and sustainability. He expressed gratitude to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his outspoken stance against injustice, particularly concerning the suffering in Gaza.