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#Diplomacy

94 stories tagged

Malaysia Mourns With Timor-Leste as PM Anwar Leads Nation's Condolences

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim leads Malaysia in expressing heartfelt condolences to Timor-Leste following the passing of the nation's distinguished former Prime Minister.

22 Jun 2026 · 2 min read

Malaysia Charts New Energy Path With Russia and Turkmenistan Deals

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's recent diplomatic missions to Russia and Turkmenistan have yielded significant energy agreements, signalling Malaysia's strategic pivot towards diversifying hydrocarbon sources and strengthening ties with Central Asian producers.

By Marcus Tan · 24 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Pakistan Reaffirms Iran's Right to Ballistic Missiles as Pezeshkian Visits Islamabad

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has publicly supported Iran's right to possess ballistic missiles during a high-level state visit by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, asserting that missile capabilities were never part of the recent US-Iran agreement.

By Sarah Chen · 24 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Iran Reports Progress on US Nuclear Talks After Switzerland Summit

Iran said Monday that intensive talks in Switzerland produced 'important steps' toward final-deal negotiations with the US, including agreements on monitoring mechanisms and maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz.

By Sarah Chen · 23 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Anwar Extends Congratulations to Ethiopia's Abiy Ahmed on Election Victory

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and the Prosperity Party following their election victory, highlighting Malaysia's strengthening ties with Africa.

By Azizah Rahman · 22 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Bangladesh Pledges Deeper Engagement With Malaysia on Trade and Regional Issues

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has pledged to deepen cooperation with Malaysia across diplomatic, economic and security fronts during his first official bilateral visit abroad since taking office.

By Azizah Rahman · 22 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Receives Bangladesh's Tarique Rahman for Strategic Regional Talks

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman arrived in Putrajaya for a two-day official visit, receiving full state honours at the Perdana Putra Complex as the nations pursue deeper strategic cooperation.

By Azizah Rahman · 22 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Iran Sets Conditions for Final US Negotiations: Oil Sales and Asset Freezes Must Be Resolved First

Iran has outlined preconditions for advancing to final negotiations with the United States, demanding implementation of ceasefire provisions, lifting of oil export sanctions, and unfreezing of Iranian assets before substantive talks can begin.

By Sarah Chen · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman to Make Maiden Official Visit to Malaysia

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will visit Malaysia on June 22 at the invitation of PM Anwar Ibrahim, marking his first official bilateral trip since assuming office in February 2026. The visit aims to deepen cooperation across trade, semiconductors, energy, and education.

By Azizah Rahman · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Italy Cancels US Trip After Trump Mocks Meloni Over Photo Request

Italy has suspended diplomatic plans after US President Trump allegedly mocked Prime Minister Meloni, claiming she begged for a photograph. The incident prompted Rome's Foreign Minister to cancel a scheduled American visit.

By Sarah Chen · 21 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Meloni's U-turn: From Trump's European ally to vocal critic

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, once positioned as Trump's closest European partner, has become an increasingly vocal critic of the U.S. president, marking a significant diplomatic reversal.

By Sarah Chen · 20 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Cambodia Pushes Thailand to Accelerate Border Demarcation Work

Cambodian PM Hun Manet has urged Thailand to appoint a Joint Boundary Commission chief and resume long-stalled border demarcation work, reaffirming both nations' commitment to peaceful dispute resolution through established diplomatic channels.

By Sarah Chen · 20 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Malaysia's balanced diplomacy attracts investors and accelerates growth, says Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim highlights how Malaysia's policy of diplomatic neutrality and balanced engagement with all nations strengthens investor confidence and accelerates economic expansion.

By Marcus Tan · 20 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Anwar Receives State Welcome in Turkmenistan, Signalling Deepened Central Asian Ties

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim received a ceremonial reception at Turkmenistan's Presidential Palace during his debut official visit, underscoring Malaysia's growing interest in Central Asian partnerships and regional diplomacy.

By Azizah Rahman · 19 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Asean and Russia chart fresh cooperation agenda at Kazan summit

Asean and Russia have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening ties at a summit in Kazan, marking 35 years of diplomatic relations. The bloc adopted several key documents including a Kazan Declaration and a five-year cooperation plan.

By Sarah Chen · 19 Jun 2026 · 6 min read

PM Anwar Receives Full Honours in Historic Turkmenistan Visit

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received an official welcome at the Turkmenistan Presidential Palace, marking his inaugural state visit to the Central Asian nation since assuming office in November 2022.

By Azizah Rahman · 19 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Brunei Sultan calls for deeper Asean-Russia ties amid global challenges

Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah has stressed the need for strengthened Asean-Russia cooperation to address pressing global issues including security tensions, climate change and technological disruption, speaking at a commemorative summit in Kazan.

By Sarah Chen · 19 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

PM Anwar Meets Malaysian Diaspora During Turkmenistan Visit

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Malaysians in Ashgabat during his official visit to Turkmenistan, emphasising the government's commitment to strengthening ties with the diaspora community.

By Azizah Rahman · 19 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Malaysia Will Not Accept Unfair Treatment from Europe, Anwar Declares Amid Norway Dispute

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has warned that developing nations will not tolerate unfair treatment from European countries, pointing to Malaysia's ongoing defence-related dispute with Norway as a concrete example of such inequitable conduct.

By Azizah Rahman · 18 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Anwar Urges ASEAN and Russia to Deepen Strategic Partnership Amid Global Tensions

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on ASEAN and Russia to strengthen cooperation across multiple strategic sectors including trade, technology, and energy, while reaffirming the importance of diplomatic solutions to geopolitical tensions.

By Azizah Rahman · 18 Jun 2026 · 5 min read

Russia and Malaysia Positioned to Deepen Strategic Ties as Diplomatic Relations Mark 60 Years

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled Russia and Malaysia's readiness to deepen cooperation ahead of their 60th diplomatic anniversary next year, with bilateral trade rising 12.9% in 2025.

By Azizah Rahman · 17 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Dialogue Platforms Essential for Building Trust Between ASEAN and Russia, Says PM Anwar

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has underscored the critical role of engagement forums in fostering trust and cooperation between ASEAN and Russia, speaking at the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit in Kazan.

By Azizah Rahman · 17 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Malaysia, Palestine to Deepen Higher Education Ties Through Student Support and University Partnerships

Malaysia and Palestine are intensifying their collaboration in higher education, with focus on supporting Palestinian students and fostering linkages between universities in both nations.

By Azizah Rahman · 17 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

PM Anwar in Kazan for high-level Asean-Russia dialogue on regional stability

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has arrived in Kazan for a two-day working visit centred on deepening Asean-Russia cooperation. The trip underscores Malaysia's role in bridging regional partnerships amid shifting geopolitical tensions.

By Azizah Rahman · 17 Jun 2026 · 3 min read

Timor-Leste President Concludes Five-Day Visit to Malaysia, Deepening Regional Ties

Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta departed Malaysia after a five-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing regional cooperation within ASEAN.

By Azizah Rahman · 16 Jun 2026 · 4 min read

Anwar to hold talks with Putin at Asean-Russia summit in Kazan

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will lead Malaysia's delegation to the Asean-Russia commemorative summit in Kazan, where he is expected to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.

By Azizah Rahman · 16 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Backs US-Iran Deal, Urges Momentum Towards Stable Peace

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has thrown his support behind a recently negotiated understanding between the United States and Iran, urging all parties to capitalise on the breakthrough by moving swiftly toward a durable peace settlement.

By Azizah Rahman · 16 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Travels to Russia to Discuss Energy Security

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is travelling to Russia with energy security as a central focus, reflecting the government's commitment to safeguarding Malaysia's fuel supply amid international tensions.

By Azizah Rahman · 16 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia Welcomes US-Iran Deal, Calls for Swift Implementation

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has expressed support for a US-Iran agreement aimed at ending hostilities, commending Pakistan's mediation role and urging all parties to move quickly toward a lasting peace settlement.

By Azizah Rahman · 15 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar backs US-Iran move to resolve tensions

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed support for a mutual understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at halting hostile activities between the two nations.

By Azizah Rahman · 15 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia-Timor-Leste Relations Exceptionally Strong, Says Ramos-Horta

Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta has praised Malaysia's diplomatic engagement and support, noting the country's strong security standing and economic growth under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during his ongoing visit.

By Azizah Rahman · 15 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

German President Steinmeier Embarks on Five-Day Asian Tour

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is undertaking a five-day Asian tour to Indonesia, the Philippines and Uzbekistan, accompanied by his wife and a business delegation.

By Azizah Rahman · 14 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

South Korea Sends Special Envoys to Mexico for World Cup Support

South Korea will dispatch two ruling Democratic Party lawmakers as special envoys to Mexico this week to support the national football team and strengthen diplomatic ties with the host nation.

By Sarah Chen · 10 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Asean Must Remain Open to All Major Powers, Says Anwar

Prime Minister Anwar has urged Asean to maintain engagement with all major powers, noting that member-state differences should not obstruct collaborative efforts.

By Azizah Rahman · 10 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

PM Anwar Accorded Official Welcome At Takaichi's Office

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received an official welcome ceremony at the Japanese Prime Minister's Office in Tokyo on June 10, marking his first official visit to Japan since becoming Malaysia's 10th Prime Minister.

By Azizah Rahman · 10 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Congratulates Modi as Indian PM Marks Record Tenure

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has lauded Indian PM Narendra Modi for achieving a historic tenure milestone, while reaffirming Malaysia's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with India.

By Azizah Rahman · 10 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar, Sasakawa Discuss Global Issues, Longstanding Cooperation

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim held talks with Sasakawa Peace Foundation chairman Tan Sri Yohei Sasakawa during his Japan visit, covering Myanmar, Middle East tensions, and humanitarian efforts.

By Azizah Rahman · 9 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

PM Anwar Ibrahim Travels to Japan for High-Level Talks with Japanese Leadership

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has departed for Tokyo to lead Malaysia's delegation in meetings with Japanese counterparts, aiming to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

By Azizah Rahman · 9 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar in Tokyo to strengthen Malaysia-Japan relations and speak at Nikkei Forum

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has landed in Tokyo for a three-day official visit focused on deepening Malaysia-Japan relations and attending the 31st Nikkei Forum.

By Sarah Chen · 8 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Ibrahim Heads to Japan on MADANI Diplomacy Mission

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has departed for Tokyo to lead a Malaysian delegation focused on deepening bilateral relations and tackling energy security concerns in the region.

By Azizah Rahman · 8 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar to Visit Japan, Strengthen Bilateral Ties

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will travel to Japan from tomorrow through June 10 for an official visit aimed at deepening strategic relations and identifying fresh areas of collaboration between the nations.

By Azizah Rahman · 7 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar to explore fresh investment opportunities during Japan visit

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will travel to Japan from June 8-10 to address the Nikkei Forum and investigate fresh investment avenues for Malaysia's economy.

By Azizah Rahman · 7 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Pakistan's Interior Minister Visits Tehran for Talks on Iran-US Relations

Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is in Tehran for official discussions with Iranian authorities, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as part of Islamabad's mediation efforts between Iran and the United States.

By Sarah Chen · 7 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung To Tour Europe, Attend G7 Summit in France

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is heading to Europe this month for a ten-day diplomatic tour culminating in his participation at the G7 summit in France's Evian resort.

By Sarah Chen · 6 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Lebanon and Israel Agree on Ceasefire Framework With Pilot Zones for Army Control

Lebanon and Israel have agreed to renew their ceasefire and establish pilot zones where the Lebanese Armed Forces will have exclusive territorial control, excluding all non-state groups, following US-mediated talks at the State Department.

By Sarah Chen · 4 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Palestinian FM Condemns Netanyahu's Plan to Expand Israeli Control in Gaza

Palestine's top diplomat has condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's announcement to expand military control over the Gaza Strip, warning the move aims to displace residents.

By Azizah Rahman · 4 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Minab School Attack Calls for Global Unity Against Oppression, Says Iranian Diplomat

An Iranian diplomat has urged the international community to unite against tyranny following a missile attack on a school in Iran that claimed 168 lives. The call for solidarity was made at a remembrance event in Kuala Lumpur.

By Sarah Chen · 3 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Trump Confirms Heated Language in Netanyahu Call

US President Donald Trump has confirmed a contentious telephone discussion with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, acknowledging he used harsh language during the exchange.

By Sarah Chen · 3 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Putin thanks Sultan Ibrahim for Moscow Victory Day visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin has thanked His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim for attending Moscow's Victory Day festivities last month, according to Russia's ambassador to Malaysia.

By Azizah Rahman · 3 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

South Korea and African Nations Meet to Strengthen Ties and Address Global Challenges

South Korea hosted its first independent gathering of African foreign ministers in Seoul, bringing together representatives from 50 African nations to discuss economic cooperation and joint responses to global challenges.

By Sarah Chen · 2 Jun 2026 · 2 min read

Diplomatic corps celebrates King's official birthday, praises Malaysia's Asean leadership

Representatives from foreign missions in Malaysia gathered to honour His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim on his official birthday while acknowledging the country's current leadership of Asean.

By Azizah Rahman · 1 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

Japan's PM Calls for Open Hormuz Strait After Talks with Iranian Leader

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has urged Iran to maintain free passage through the Strait of Hormuz during telephone discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, emphasising the importance of flexibility in ongoing peace negotiations.

By Sarah Chen · 1 Jun 2026 · 1 min read

EU Ambassador Falls for Pahang's Tempoyak

European Union Ambassador Rafael Daerr has embraced Malaysian gastronomy with enthusiasm, particularly tempoyak from Pahang. His culinary adventures reflect deeper cultural connections between the EU and Malaysia.

By Priya Krishnan · 1 Jun 2026 · 2 min read

Malaysia hits back at Norway over scrapped missile sale, condemns 'selective' approach

Malaysia has criticised Norway's decision to withdraw approval for the Naval Strike Missile system export, questioning whether global trade rules are applied fairly and consistently across nations.

By Azizah Rahman · 31 May 2026 · 1 min read

Japan's New PM Commits to Breaking Deadlock on North Korean Abductions

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to achieve a major breakthrough on the abduction of Japanese nationals by North Korea, indicating willingness to pursue summit talks with Pyongyang.

By Sarah Chen · 30 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia to address missile export freeze with Norway

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin plans to discuss Norway's cancellation of export licences for Naval Strike Missiles with his Norwegian counterpart Tore O. Sandvik.

By Azizah Rahman · 30 May 2026 · 1 min read

China and Malaysia Reaffirm Commitment to Diplomatic Ties After Five Decades

China and Malaysia have renewed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, marking 52 years since establishing formal diplomatic ties during the Cold War era.

By Azizah Rahman · 30 May 2026 · 1 min read

Israel deepens Lebanon incursion amid US security talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Friday that his nation's military has advanced deeper into Lebanese territory, even as security delegations from both countries engage in historic talks in the United States capital.

By Sarah Chen · 30 May 2026 · 1 min read

Southeast Asia in Focus: Cambodia Denies African Deportation Claims; Philippines Advances UNSC Bid

Southeast Asia's capitals see diplomatic movement this week. Cambodia rebuffs deportation allegations, the Philippines advances its UN Security Council candidacy, and Vietnam prepares to host a major international sporting event.

By Sarah Chen · 30 May 2026 · 1 min read

Netanyahu says Israel pushing deeper into Lebanon amid US security talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Friday that Israeli forces have advanced further into Lebanese territory, while military delegations from both nations conduct landmark security discussions in Washington.

By Sarah Chen · 29 May 2026 · 1 min read

Mohamed Khaled Leads Malaysian Delegation At IISS Shangri-La Dialogue 2026

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin will head Malaysia's contingent at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue 2026, a three-day regional security conference starting Friday at Shangri-La Singapore.

By Azizah Rahman · 29 May 2026 · 1 min read

Saudi Arabia reaffirms strong ties with Malaysia, says Anwar

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reaffirmed his nation's commitment to maintaining robust relations with Malaysia, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

By Azizah Rahman · 29 May 2026 · 1 min read

Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing heads to India for first presidential visit abroad

Myanmar President Min Aung Hlaing is heading to India for a five-day official visit beginning Saturday, his first foreign trip since taking civilian office in April following contentious elections.

By Sarah Chen · 29 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia demands probe into Gaza flotilla detentions, calls for protection of nationals' rights

Malaysia's government has demanded an investigation into the detention of Malaysian nationals by Israel during a Gaza humanitarian mission, insisting their rights and dignity must be safeguarded.

By Azizah Rahman · 28 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia Seeks Investigation Into Claims of Mistreatment of Nationals on Gaza Mission

The Malaysian government is investigating allegations that nationals were mistreated during a Gaza mission, with the Home Minister emphasizing the need for continued diplomatic engagement to prevent further tensions.

By Azizah Rahman · 28 May 2026 · 1 min read

Japan's Emperor Naruhito Celebrates Deepening Ties With Philippines at State Banquet

Japan's Emperor Naruhito praised growing bonds with the Philippines at a state banquet honouring President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., as both nations mark seven decades of formal diplomatic ties amid regional security concerns.

By Sarah Chen · 28 May 2026 · 2 min read

Malaysia backs Pakistan's mediation efforts in Iran-US diplomatic talks

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has praised Pakistan for its efforts in facilitating negotiations between Iran and the United States, emphasising Malaysia's commitment to peaceful diplomatic solutions in the Middle East.

By Azizah Rahman · 28 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia and Pakistan reaffirm commitment to strengthen bilateral relations

Malaysia and Pakistan have pledged to deepen their long-standing relationship. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed gratitude for Pakistan's diplomatic efforts in mediating regional tensions.

By Azizah Rahman · 27 May 2026 · 1 min read

Thai and Cambodian Monarchs Exchange Letters Praising Each Other's Character

Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni have exchanged letters of goodwill, with observers hailing the gesture as a display of moral strength between neighbouring nations recovering from armed clashes.

By Sarah Chen · 27 May 2026 · 1 min read

Outgoing Turkish Ambassador Reflects on Rewarding Malaysia Posting

Turkey's departing envoy to Malaysia, Emir Salim Yüksel, called his four-year tenure deeply fulfilling, citing expanded cooperation between Kuala Lumpur and Ankara across multiple sectors.

By Azizah Rahman · 27 May 2026 · 1 min read

Singapore Foreign Minister Visits North Korea in Unusual Diplomatic Tour

Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan conducted a rare diplomatic visit to North Korea on Tuesday, meeting counterpart Choe Son Hui to discuss strengthening ties and regional matters.

By Sarah Chen · 27 May 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar calls for diplomatic solution to Middle East crisis

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged the international community to pursue peaceful and responsible diplomacy to defuse Middle East tensions, while firmly rejecting ongoing violence in the region.

By Azizah Rahman · 26 May 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar to Visit Tehran When Timing Is Right

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has accepted an invitation to visit Tehran from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian. The trip will take place at a suitable moment, with Pezeshkian commending Malaysia's commitment to peace.

By Azizah Rahman · 26 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia, India Committed To Strengthening Strategic Cooperation - Ramanan

Malaysia remains dedicated to expanding strategic partnership with India, Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said during a farewell meeting with Indian High Commissioner B.N. Reddy, emphasizing mutual growth and regional prosperity.

By Azizah Rahman · 25 May 2026 · 1 min read

Iranian Foreign Minister Skips UN Security Council Session Due to US Visa Delays

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will be absent from a UN Security Council meeting scheduled for Tuesday, citing difficulties obtaining a US visa. The session comes as hostilities between Washington and Tehran remain tense.

By Sarah Chen · 25 May 2026 · 1 min read

Pakistan Making Progress on US-Iran Mediation, Says PM Sharif

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism about his country's efforts to broker peace between the US and Iran, stating progress has been made. He made the comments while meeting Chinese counterpart Li Qiang in Beijing.

By Sarah Chen · 25 May 2026 · 1 min read

Nine Indonesians From Gaza Aid Ship Return After Israeli Detention

Nine Indonesian nationals who were held by Israeli forces while aboard a humanitarian vessel bound for Gaza have returned to Jakarta. The group was detained after their ship was intercepted near Cyprus on May 18 and later released from the Israeli port of Ashdod.

By Sarah Chen · 24 May 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Encouraged by US-Iran Diplomatic Progress, Eyes Hormuz Strait Resolution

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has signalled cautious optimism following consultations with West Asian leaders, expressing hopes that ongoing US-Iran discussions will culminate in a lasting settlement regarding the strategically vital Hormuz Strait.

By Azizah Rahman · 24 May 2026 · 1 min read

PM Anwar Congratulates Tamil Nadu CM Vijay, Signals September Visit to India

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim telephoned Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin to renew congratulations on his state's recent electoral performance. The conversation signalled Malaysia's continued commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with India.

By Azizah Rahman · 24 May 2026 · 1 min read

Iran Accepts Draft Plan To Halt Conflict And Reopen Hormuz Strait

Iran has agreed to a draft plan aimed at ending fighting and reopening the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The proposal includes halting combat across multiple fronts and lifting US naval restrictions on Iranian shipping.

By Sarah Chen · 24 May 2026 · 1 min read

New Ambassadors Tasked with Economic Diplomacy as Malaysia Streamlines Overseas Missions

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim received credentials from 15 ambassadors at Istana Negara on Monday, one of the largest cohorts in recent years. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasised that modern diplomacy extends beyond protocol to encompass economic engagement and cultural understanding.

By Azizah Rahman · 24 May 2026 · 2 min read

Former US Envoy Warns of 'Wary Stability' in US-China Ties as Trust Remains Elusive

Former US ambassador to China Max Baucus characterises the latest US-China summit as marking a shift towards 'constructive stability' centred on preventing crises. Both nations remain deeply mistrustful despite diplomatic efforts to maintain steady relations.

By Sarah Chen · 23 May 2026 · 2 min read

Iran and US Moving Toward Agreement on 14-Point Memorandum

Iran's Foreign Ministry confirmed Saturday that Tehran and Washington are nearing completion of a 14-point memorandum of understanding aimed at resolving key disputes including cessation of hostilities and lifting of sanctions.

By Sarah Chen · 23 May 2026 · 1 min read

Xi Jinping poised for North Korea visit as China seeks to mediate peninsula tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit North Korea in the coming weeks, possibly to help ease tensions between Pyongyang and Washington. The trip would be his second as China's leader since 2019.

By Sarah Chen · 23 May 2026 · 2 min read

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif Embarks on Four-Day China Visit to Boost CPEC Ties

Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has departed for a four-day official visit to China, focusing on deepening economic cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Phase-II initiative.

By Sarah Chen · 23 May 2026 · 1 min read

Anwar Congratulates Tamil Nadu's New Chief Minister Vijay, Plans India Visit

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a telephone conversation with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay, extending congratulations on his appointment. Anwar confirmed plans to visit India in September for the BRICS Summit and to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

By Azizah Rahman · 22 May 2026 · 1 min read

Pakistan's Interior Minister Visits Tehran to Advance Iran-US Talks

Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and President Masoud Pezeshkian in Tehran, continuing Pakistan's mediation efforts between Iran and the United States.

By Sarah Chen · 22 May 2026 · 1 min read

China Extends Visa-Free Travel for Russians Through End of 2027

China has extended its visa-free travel programme for Russian citizens until December 31, 2027, permitting stays of up to 30 days for tourism, business, and visits to family and friends.

By Sarah Chen · 21 May 2026 · 1 min read

Malaysia Deepens Ties Through Technical Cooperation Programme

Malaysia's Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme demonstrates the country's commitment to South-South Cooperation by fostering people-to-people connections and building professional networks among developing nations through capacity-building and cultural exchange.

By Marcus Tan · 21 May 2026 · 1 min read

Bernama a Key Partner for Malaysian Missions Worldwide, Says Ambassador to Kazakhstan

Malaysia's Ambassador to Kazakhstan has highlighted Bernama's crucial role as a strategic partner for overseas missions in sharing accurate information about government policies and bilateral relations.

By Sarah Chen · 20 May 2026 · 1 min read

Putin arrives in Beijing to underscore Russia-China alliance as Trump departs

Vladimir Putin has arrived in Beijing for high-level talks with Xi Jinping, aiming to reinforce Russia-China ties in the wake of Donald Trump's recent visit to the Chinese capital. The two leaders are expected to discuss energy partnerships and regional security.

By Sarah Chen · 20 May 2026 · 2 min read

Southeast Asia's Infrastructure and Diplomacy Push: Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Philippines and Singapore on May 20

Southeast Asian nations are advancing key initiatives spanning infrastructure, tourism, trade, and public health this week. Across the region, governments are implementing projects to boost economies, strengthen diplomatic partnerships, and address critical challenges.

By Sarah Chen · 20 May 2026 · 1 min read

ASEAN Must Act Swiftly on Regional Crises, Says Philippines Foreign Minister

The Philippines has urged ASEAN to respond with speed and flexibility to mounting pressures from the West Asia crisis and other regional challenges, as foreign ministers gather in Cebu ahead of the leaders' summit.

By Azizah Rahman · 19 May 2026 · 1 min read

PM Anwar Arrives in Cebu for 48th ASEAN Summit

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim touched down in Cebu today to participate in the 48th ASEAN Summit. He will engage in bilateral talks and attend sub-regional discussions before returning home.

By Azizah Rahman · 19 May 2026 · 1 min read