TOKYO, October 25, 2025 – Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departed from Haneda Airport on Saturday, embarking on an official visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend a series of ASEAN-related Summit Meetings, signaling Japan’s renewed commitment to regional stability and economic collaboration.
In a statement issued just before takeoff, Takaichi emphasized Tokyo’s strategic priorities in Southeast Asia. “From now, I will be departing for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, to attend the ASEAN-related Summit Meetings. Japan will strengthen relations with ASEAN as ‘Trusted Partners’ and promote a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) based on the rule of law.”
Accompanied by a high-level delegation and her spouse, Takaichi was seen waving to well-wishers as she boarded the government aircraft, marked by the rising sun emblem. The trip comes at a pivotal moment for Japan, as it seeks to counterbalance China’s growing influence in the region through enhanced security, trade, and technological partnerships.
The summits, hosted by Malaysia during its 2025 ASEAN chairmanship, are expected to focus on pressing issues including supply chain resilience, digital economy integration, and maritime security in the South China Sea. Takaichi’s agenda includes bilateral meetings with counterparts from Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines, alongside multilateral discussions on sustainable development and climate resilience.
Analysts view the visit as a cornerstone of Japan’s “Quality Infrastructure” initiative, which has already funneled billions in investments into ASEAN projects like high-speed rail and renewable energy grids. “This is more than diplomacy—it’s about embedding Japan as the go-to partner for a rules-based order in Asia,” said Dr. Ken Jimbo, a foreign policy expert at Keio University.
Takaichi, who assumed office as Japan’s first female prime minister, has prioritized the Indo-Pacific framework since taking the helm, building on predecessors’ efforts to diversify alliances amid U.S. policy fluctuations.
