KUALA LUMPUR – The upcoming visit of United States President Donald J. Trump to Malaysia in conjunction with the 47th ASEAN Summit this month does not suggest that Malaysia is wavering in its commitment to the Palestinian cause, according to Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) chairman, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.
In a statement on Facebook, Reezal Merican emphasised that the visit provides Malaysia with a significant opportunity to use the ASEAN platform to convey its message directly and unequivocally to Trump.
“Malaysia believes that maintaining a firm and consistent stance on the international stage demonstrates that the Palestinian issue has never ceased to be our priority,” he said.
“As long as injustice persists, Malaysia will continue to speak out, even in front of any superpower,” he added.
Reezal Merican, who is also the Kepala Batas UMNO Division chief, reaffirmed Malaysia’s unwavering position, rejecting all forms of oppression against the Palestinian people, while fully supporting their right to independence and sovereignty.
“The visit of President Donald Trump to Malaysia is not at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or Malaysians, but part of Malaysia’s official duty as ASEAN Chair,” he clarified.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim had previously stated that Malaysia would continue to use its diplomatic platform to advocate for the Palestinian cause, maintaining a firm but strategic approach in defending the truth.
The 47th ASEAN Summit, set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, will also be attended by several world leaders from Asia, Europe, Canada, Africa, and Latin America. – October 3, 2025