PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim departed for South Korea on Thursday to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, continuing Malaysia’s diplomatic outreach under the “Madani Diplomacy” initiative.
“The Madani Diplomacy mission continues to Gyeongju, Republic of Korea, to take part in the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting,” Anwar said in a post on his social media account on Thursday.
Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, said the summit provides a vital platform to strengthen regional economic cooperation, expand equitable trade, and advance sustainability and global well-being.
“I seek prayers and support for a smooth journey and the success of the Malaysian delegation, God willing,” he added.
The 2025 APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting is being held in the coastal city of Gyeongju, in southeastern South Korea. It marks the second time the country has hosted the annual summit, following its first in 2005.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz are already in Gyeongju, representing Malaysia at ministerial-level discussions ahead of the leaders’ meeting.
APEC 2025 is themed “Building a Sustainable Tomorrow,” with South Korea focusing on advancing regional trade, artificial intelligence, and sustainability. Ministerial sessions are also set to discuss health, digital economy, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Malaysia last hosted the APEC summit in 2020, which was held virtually for the first time due to the global Covid-19 pandemic. - October 30, 2025
