KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 27 — The 47th Asean Summit opened with history in the making, as Timor-Leste was formally accepted as the 11th member of the regional bloc and Malaysia hosted the signing of a landmark peace agreement between Thailand and Cambodia.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described Timor-Leste’s entry as the completion of a “united and sovereign Southeast Asian family,” marking a significant moment for both Malaysia and Asean.

In a statement, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said the milestone reflected Malaysia’s long-standing support for Timor-Leste’s accession through training, technical assistance, and capacity-building programmes.

During his policy address at the opening ceremony yesterday, Anwar reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to leading Asean in remaining “united, relevant, and people-centric.”

Kuala Lumpur peace agreement seals end to hostilities

A second milestone was achieved when Thailand and Cambodia signed the Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement — a breakthrough deal witnessed by Anwar and former US president Donald Trump.

The PMO said the accord “marks the beginning of the end” of the decades-long dispute between the two countries, following peace talks initiated by Anwar in July.

“The agreement signifies the readiness of both countries to cease hostilities, release prisoners, and allow Asean observers, including Malaysia, to monitor peace implementation on the ground,” the statement said.

Malaysia chairs five major summits

As chair, Anwar presided over five high-level meetings on the summit’s first day, including:

  • The 47th Asean Summit
  • The 13th Asean–United States Summit
  • The 28th Asean–Japan Summit
  • The 3rd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders’ Meeting
  • The 22nd Asean–India Summit (held virtually)

According to the PMO, these sessions strengthened Asean’s strategic partnerships and expanded cooperation in trade, digital technology, energy, and sustainable development — reinforcing the bloc’s growing influence on the global stage.

Focus shifts to digital, clean energy and supply chains

Today’s agenda features five more summits — the 26th Asean–Republic of Korea Summit, the 28th Asean Plus Three Summit, the 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Summit, the 20th East Asia Summit, and the 15th Asean–United Nations Summit.

The PMO said discussions will centre on regional economic cooperation, digital transformation, clean energy transition, and supply chain resilience — reaffirming Asean’s role as both a hub of growth and a stabilising force in the Indo-Pacific region.

Anwar is also scheduled to meet several fellow leaders before hosting the Asean Gala Dinner this evening.

“Malaysia will continue to carry the trust of regional leadership with resolve and confidence, strengthening Asean unity and driving cooperation that benefits the entire region,” the PMO said.