MALAYSIA has expressed firm support for Egypt’s diplomatic role in pushing for de-escalation, dialogue and an immediate cessation of violence in the Middle East, as regional tensions continue to rise.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the position was conveyed during a telephone conversation with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi on Thursday, in which both sides also agreed to elevate bilateral ties towards a Strategic Partnership.
In a statement posted on Facebook, Anwar said Malaysia had also raised its concerns over the worsening conflict in the region, while extending Aidilfitri greetings to the Egyptian leader.
"On the issue of Palestine, Malaysia supports Egypt’s efforts in assisting Gaza and emphasises that any peace initiative must be anchored on a ceasefire and humanitarian access," he said.
The Prime Minister also sought Egypt’s support for Malaysia’s planned 2026 humanitarian mission, which is expected to be launched soon via the Rafah border crossing.
The diplomatic engagement comes against the backdrop of intensifying regional instability following joint military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran on February 28.
Tehran has since retaliated with drone and missile attacks targeting Israel and several neighbouring countries hosting US military assets, further unsettling global markets and disrupting the aviation sector. - March 27, 2026
