PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA December 29, 2025 – Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim today reflected on the country’s stewardship of the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, describing it as a profound responsibility amid global unrest and uncertainty.
In a heartfelt statement posted on social media, Anwar emphasised that ASEAN chose to uphold the spirit of unity, dialogue, and mutual respect despite challenging times. “Malaysia memikul amanah Kepengerusian ASEAN 2025 pada saat dunia berdepan keresahan dan ketidaktentuan. Dalam suasana itu, ASEAN memilih untuk terus berpaut pada semangat kebersamaan, dialog dan saling menghormati,” he wrote.
The year featured the 46th and 47th ASEAN Summits, which served as key platforms for aligning views and bridging differences among member states. A standout historic achievement was the formal admission of Timor-Leste as ASEAN’s 11th member during the 47th Summit in October, marking the bloc’s first expansion since 1999.

Anwar extended sincere gratitude to fellow ASEAN leaders and global partners for their wisdom and sincerity in pursuing regional stability and shared prosperity. He also thanked the Malaysian people for their warm hospitality and unwavering support throughout the year.
“This chairmanship has elevated Malaysia as a trusted partner in maintaining peace, stability, and hope in the region,” Anwar stated, adding, “Semoga ia berkekalan, Insya-Allah.”
Malaysia’s 2025 chairmanship, themed “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” hosted over 300 meetings and culminated in the handover to the Philippines during the closing ceremony of the 47th Summit. As the year draws to a close, Anwar’s message underscores ASEAN’s resilience and Malaysia’s pivotal role in fostering regional harmony.
