Kuala lumpur: Malaysia’s invitation to United States (US) President Donald Trump to attend the upcoming ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur this October should be viewed as part of ASEAN’s broader engagement strategy, rather than solely Malaysia’s initiative.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (IDEAS) director Tan Sri Dr Rebecca Fatima Sta Maria clarified that Trump’s attendance would fall under the ASEAN-US framework, extended by Malaysia in its capacity as ASEAN chair, and not as a direct invitation from Malaysia itself.

Sta Maria stated, ‘It is not Malaysia inviting the US. It is ASEAN, with Malaysia as chair, inviting the US. So, he is not coming to Malaysia in a bilateral context but as part of the ASEAN-US Summit,’ during a session at the RAM Forum 2025: Building Resilience and Future-Proofing Amid Shifting Sands today. The session was moderated by Taylor’s University Adjunct Professor, Prof Dr Ong Kian Ming.

Sta Maria, who also serves as Sunway University’s Pro-Chancellor, highlighted ASEAN’s ability to convene major global players for open dialogues, which allows the regional bloc to express its concerns and positions on economic and security matters effectively. She stated, ‘Such a forum allows ASEAN to share its concerns and perspectives directly, and for the other side to hear what ASEAN stands for in the global economic and security environment.’

Regarding potential public protests should Trump attend, Sta Maria emphasized the need for clear communication to convey the non-bilateral nature of the invitation. ‘Strong communication is needed to ensure people understand the context and purpose of the engagement,’ she noted.

The 47th ASEAN Summit is scheduled to occur in Kuala Lumpur from October 26 to 28, 2025, with numerous world leaders from Asia, Europe, Canada, Africa, and Latin America anticipated to participate.