Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has expressed Malaysia’s deep appreciation for Laos’ commitment and cooperation in strengthening bilateral and regional ties, particularly in support of Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship this year. Speaking at a joint press conference with his counterpart from Laos, Sonexay Siphandone, who is on a three-day official visit to Malaysia, Anwar praised the Lao authorities for their continued collaboration, noting that the country has played a key role in ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing coordination for ASEAN activities.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted the growing economic confidence in Laos, citing the presence of four major Malaysian banks, namely Maybank, RHB, CIMB, and Public Bank, currently operating in the country. Anwar stated that this provides a strong foundation for greater Malaysian investment in Laos, as well as in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand, under the broader ASEAN framework.
The official visit of the Lao premier, taking place ahead of the convening of the 46th ASEAN Summit, underscores the strong and enduring ties between Malaysia and Laos. Anwar said both parties also agreed to implement the second phase of the ASEAN Power Grid initiative, which will include Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, alongside Malaysia and Singapore.
He pointed out that while the initial phase links Vietnam to northern Peninsular Malaysia, discussions with Siphandone underscored the need to fast-track the next phase to benefit more countries in the region. Additionally, Anwar mentioned plans to enhance connectivity through a new Memorandum of Cooperation with Penang Port to streamline the flow of goods between Penang, Perlis, and the Lao port.
Anwar said the two sides also discussed enhancing cooperation in capacity-building, particularly in port management training, with Malaysian ports, including Penang, Klang, and Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP), ready to share expertise with Laos. The meeting also addressed issues such as labor, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and alternative energy, including rare earth elements.
The high-speed rail link, Anwar noted, would significantly reduce travel time between ASEAN countries and China, improving regional connectivity and economic integration. The meeting also touched on broader ASEAN issues, including the upcoming ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit, and engagement with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Anwar expressed hope that ASEAN leaders could reach a consensus on Timor-Leste’s accession into the regional grouping by October, possibly during the retreat session of the 46th ASEAN Summit. On Myanmar, Anwar reiterated the importance of maintaining humanitarian assistance and called on all parties to respect the need for peace, an immediate ceasefire, and constructive engagement through the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus.
He also welcomed Siphandone’s agreement to return for a working visit soon to further enhance government and private sector engagement.