MALAYSIA has pledged to ensure the smooth and successful hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which began today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) and will run until 28 October, under the theme *“Inclusivity and Sustainability.”*
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the summit carries immense significance in reinforcing ASEAN unity, driving regional growth and reaffirming the bloc’s role as a cornerstone of stability and prosperity.
“The summit is crucial in strengthening solidarity, advancing regional development and asserting ASEAN’s position as a centre of stability and prosperity. I ask for the prayers of all Malaysians that all proceedings will go smoothly, God willing,” Anwar said in a Facebook post earlier today.
Anwar chaired a preparatory meeting on Saturday night ahead of the opening of the summit, which marks Malaysia’s fifth term as ASEAN Chair since the regional organisation’s founding in 1967. Malaysia previously held the chairmanship in 1977, 1997, 2005 and 2015.
This year’s gathering is one of the largest in ASEAN’s history, drawing world leaders amid heightened expectations for meaningful outcomes on peace, economic resilience and regional cooperation.
Among the first leaders to arrive this morning were Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet — both central figures in a historic peace deal expected to be signed during the summit, witnessed by US President Donald Trump and Anwar.
Anutin arrived at 8am dressed in a dark navy suit and black tie, welcomed personally by Anwar. Hun Manet followed at 8.04am in a blue suit. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong arrived at 8.02am, while United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres arrived shortly after, at 8.10am.
The participation of the Thai and Cambodian premiers has drawn particular attention following months of tension along their shared border. In July, over 40 people were killed in the deadliest military confrontation between the two nations in decades.
Trump, who is expected to arrive in Kuala Lumpur later this morning aboard Air Force One, helped broker the ceasefire that ended the five-day border conflict. The signing of the peace accord — to be witnessed by Trump and Anwar — is seen as a diplomatic breakthrough for ASEAN under Malaysia’s leadership.
Anutin had initially cancelled his trip following the passing of Thailand’s Queen Mother, Sirikit, on 24 October at the age of 93. However, he later confirmed his attendance, saying he would travel to Kuala Lumpur to sign the deal before returning to Bangkok the same day.
The 47th ASEAN Summit is anticipated to produce major agreements on regional peace and economic recovery, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to leading ASEAN towards a future of inclusivity, sustainability and shared stability. - October 26, 2025
