26-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysia, known for its strong stance against violence in Myanmar’s military-ruled regime, raised a significant possibility on Wednesday, July 26, suggesting that ASEAN member countries might engage informally with the junta while still addressing human rights issues.
During a state visit to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed the matter with Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Despite previous rejection of engaging with the junta, Malaysia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) now seem to be open to some flexibility. While maintaining the five-point consensus of ASEAN, they propose informal engagements for neighboring countries with the junta. However, they emphasize that this should not compromise concerns regarding human rights and the treatment of minorities, especially the Rohingya.
The Philippines’ president did not offer any specific comments on Myanmar during the joint press conference with Anwar.
ASEAN, which includes Myanmar as one of its ten members, has been unsuccessful in implementing a five-point peace plan agreed upon with the junta shortly after the coup in early 2021.
Notably, Malaysia has been a vocal critic of the junta’s actions, urging ASEAN earlier this month to strongly condemn their violent actions and policies.
