Japan and Malaysia agreed to deepen ties to enhance regional security and build resilient supply chains. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim pledged to work together on peace and stability in the East and South China Seas and the Middle East. Both leaders highlighted the upgrade of their ties to a “comprehensive strategic partnership” in 2023 as a significant milestone.
Ishiba described Malaysia as a “bridge” between Southeast Asia and the Middle East, emphasizing their joint commitment to addressing the situation in Gaza and promoting regional peace and stability. He also outlined plans to expand cooperation in cybersecurity and energy transition, highlighting Malaysia’s strategic role in liquefied natural gas exports and the Strait of Malacca.
Anwar called the meeting “highly comprehensive” and expressed hopes for Japan’s collaboration in Malaysia’s efforts on digitalization, energy transition, and education. He noted that Malaysia has greatly benefited from its partnership with Japan, further emphasizing the importance of continued cooperation.
