MPs Praise Malaysia's Strong Leadership As ASEAN Chair 

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 (Bernama) -- Members of Parliament across the divide have hailed Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair, saying its reflects the nation’s capability in strengthening regional cooperation and its standing among major world powers, particularly in the economic and security sectors.

Debating the Supply Bill (Budget) 2026 in the Dewan Rakyat today, they also viewed Malaysia as having showcased a principled diplomatic narrative in addressing regional disputes, while maintaining a consistent stance on the Gaza issue.

Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari (PH-Gombak) said the latest membership of Timor-Leste as the 11th ASEAN country while Malaysia holds the chairmanship marks a historic moment, proving the steadfast leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in reinforcing ASEAN’s position as the world’s fifth-largest economic bloc.

“At a time when many people around the world are rejecting globalisation due to wealth and income disparities, the aspect of regionalism has become more important. This is the moment for ASEAN to shape a fairer future for our people,” he said.

He also suggested that ASEAN consider the strategic inclusion of other countries such as Australia and Bangladesh to strengthen cooperation in technology, labour markets and migration issues, but emphasised that the bloc’s core foundation, peace, must not be compromised.

“Without peace or a Zone of Peace, we cannot think or plan for the economic development of this region. Malaysia must succeed in establishing ASEAN as the centre of the world for the sake of collective prosperity and success,” he said, describing the ASEAN Summit as now a global focal point thanks to Malaysia’s consistent policy of centrality and neutrality.

Meanwhile, Datuk Seri Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (PN-Tanah Merah) proposed that the government consider granting a special RM500 incentive to all civil servants directly involved in the hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit currently taking place in the capital.

He said the token of appreciation is justified in recognition of the sacrifices and strong commitment of thousands of personnel from various government departments and agencies who worked tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of the prestigious conference, thereby upholding Malaysia’s reputation as ASEAN Chair, including those who have been working for the past two weeks.

“It will bring motivation and joy to all layers of the government service, not only to teachers but also military personnel, police, healthcare workers, drivers, office assistants and a large portion of Wisma Putra staff including contract officers,” he said.

The hosting of the 47th ASEAN Summit was also highlighted by other MPs including Azli Yusof (PH-Shah Alam) and Datuk Shamshulkahar Mohd Deli (BN-Jempol), who expressed that Malaysians should be proud to host such a major gathering of world leaders discussing bilateral relations, international trade, maritime security and regional peace.

Shamshulkahar said through its chairmanship of the summit, Malaysia demonstrated its role on the international stage by acting as mediator between Thailand and Cambodia, who signed the KL Peace Accord yesterday, witnessed by United States President Donald Trump.

He also extended congratulations and appreciation to all volunteers and members of the Sumud Flotilla expedition who courageously undertook the humanitarian sailing mission to Gaza, Palestine recently.

“Jempol also wishes to express appreciation to the Prime Minister and the Foreign Minister for their swift and skilful diplomatic efforts that ensured all expedition participants were safely evacuated from Israel,” he said.

In addition, Riduan Rubin (Independent-Tenom) congratulated the government under Anwar’s leadership on successfully signing an agreement to upgrade bilateral relations towards a comprehensive strategic partnership with the United States, represented by its President Donald Trump.

He said the move demonstrated that Malaysia is on the right track to re-emerge as an ‘Asian Tiger’, particularly in terms of economic progress and national advancement.

The Dewan sitting resumes tomorrow.

-- BERNAMA