MALAYSIAN Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is set to travel to Jakarta tomorrow at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto for high‑level discussions on the escalating conflict in the Middle East and its far‑reaching implications for global economic stability.
The visit reflects growing regional concern over recent US‑Israeli strikes on Iran and their impact on trade, energy markets, and diplomatic relations.
A statement from Malaysia’s foreign ministry said both leaders will coordinate positions on the intensifying geopolitical crisis in West Asia and seek strategies to mitigate its effects on Southeast Asia and the wider global economy.
“This visit aims to discuss current geopolitical developments that are becoming increasingly severe, particularly the conflict in West Asia, which has direct implications for regional stability and the global economy, including its effects on Malaysia and Indonesia,” the statement read.
The talks will also prioritise diplomatic measures to ease tensions and protect vital trade routes and supply chains, ensuring the continuity of economic activity critical to citizens’ welfare.
Both leaders are expected to emphasise ASEAN’s role as a unified and principled bloc, capable of collective action to maintain peace and regional stability.
“The latest developments require comprehensive, thorough and integrated discussions between the two countries in aligning positions and reinforcing strategic cooperation to confront this situation,” Wisma Putra added.
In a recent phone conversation during the Eid celebrations, Anwar informed Prabowo of his intention to visit Jakarta, aiming to strengthen bilateral relations and support diplomatic efforts to end the Iran‑Israel conflict.
The leaders also discussed the wider repercussions of the US‑Israeli strikes, which have escalated regional tensions and contributed to global oil price volatility.
“We have agreed to arrange a meeting in the near future (then), including my proposal to visit Jakarta to bolster our already close bilateral ties,” Anwar said on social media following the call.
He also acknowledged Prabowo’s diplomatic initiative, noting that the Indonesian president had offered to mediate between Iran and the United States and even travel to Tehran to facilitate negotiations.
“We both call for peace. I informed President Prabowo that Malaysia will continue to support and strengthen diplomatic efforts aimed at de‑escalating the Iran‑Israel conflict,” Anwar said, adding that reducing hostilities would help protect civilians and pave the way for meaningful negotiations toward a lasting resolution.
The Jakarta visit will coincide with preparations for the D‑8 Summit, a forum of major Muslim‑majority developing economies valued at approximately US$5.1 trillion.
Malaysia and Indonesia had originally planned to host the summit next month, but the meeting has been postponed due to ongoing Middle East tensions, with a revised date yet to be announced.
Anwar has consistently condemned the strikes in the Middle East, warning they could “bring the Middle East to the edge of catastrophe” and suggesting that US support for Israel’s actions risks undermining progress toward a negotiated settlement.
ASEAN has repeatedly called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” as member states seek diplomatic solutions to restore stability in the region.
Anwar last visited Jakarta on an official state visit in July 2025. - March 26, 2026
