Kuala Lumpur: ASEAN should work with Myanmar in post-humanitarian efforts amid the devastating earthquake and address some of the ongoing concerns that have been expressed while adhering to the broad parameters of the five-point consensus. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said he was thankful that most of the member countries of ASEAN, of which Malaysia is the Chair, have come together to offer assistance to Myanmar after the recent devastating earthquake, where the death toll has risen above 3,500.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, “We have had direct engagement with (Myanmar junta leader) Senior General (Min Aung Hlaing) to speak about humanitarian efforts.” He emphasized the importance of using this opportunity to foster cooperation among ASEAN nations, starting with humanitarian engagement. Anwar urged that both parties involved in Myanmar’s ongoing crisis should accede to some of the concerns expressed, in line with the broad parameters of the five-point consensus.

In his closing remarks at the 12th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors’ Meeting (AFMGM), Anwar, who also serves as Malaysia’s Finance Minister, highlighted that he had discussed the issue with Vietnam’s Prime Minister, Pham Minh Chinh, during a recent call. Both leaders concurred that ASEAN must engage in dialogue and negotiations with all relevant parties to achieve a peaceful and inclusive resolution for Myanmar.

Anwar stressed that this approach is critical to ensuring that actions taken adhere to humanitarian principles and contribute to the larger goal of regional stability. The call for engagement underscores the necessity for ASEAN to play a proactive role in addressing the crisis in Myanmar, especially in light of the recent natural disaster.