KUALA LUMPUR, May 25, 2025 — During a joint press conference today, Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the importance of Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone’s visit, recalling their prior meeting at the 2023 ASEAN Summit in Laos.
Expressing gratitude for Laos’ support as Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship, Anwar underscored plans to bolster bilateral relations as the two nations approach the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2026.
The leaders discussed key regional initiatives, including the ASEAN Power Grid, connecting Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. Progress on the Inland Port in Perlis, Malaysia, and the Thanaleng Port in Laos was also reviewed.
Talks covered cooperation in labour, digitalisation, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, alternative energy, and rare earth elements.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to the 46th ASEAN Summit, focusing on Timor-Leste’s admission into ASEAN and humanitarian efforts in Myanmar.
“We look forward to continued collaboration,” Anwar said, closing with an invitation to the upcoming summit.