IN a telephone conversation on Friday evening between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Philippine President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr., both leaders exchanged views on pressing ASEAN and global issues, including the situation in Myanmar and ongoing tariff discussions with the United States.
"I had a telephone conversation with my close friend and President of the Republic of the Philippines, Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Romualdez Marcos Jr., to discuss several key matters and recent developments related to ASEAN and global affairs," said Anwar in a Facebook post following the call.
The Prime Minister said he pressed for an extension of the ceasefire in Myanmar, underscoring the importance of ensuring unhindered humanitarian access.
"We both agreed that all forms of assistance must be delivered without discrimination or restrictions," he added.
Anwar also highlighted Malaysia’s current chairmanship of ASEAN, noting the country’s potential to influence ongoing tariff talks with Washington.
"As the current Chair of ASEAN, I informed him that Malaysia is in a position to leverage its role to highlight its importance to the United States in ongoing global tariff negotiations."
He welcomed the US decision to delay the implementation of tariffs for 90 days, calling it "a welcome window for further discussions, especially given Malaysia’s strengths in certain product categories."
The Prime Minister concluded by offering well wishes to Marcos ahead of the Philippine general election on 12 May and expressed his intention to meet again during the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. - May 3, 2025
