Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia officially concluded the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings, marking the ceremonial handover of the ASEAN Chairmanship to the Philippines. The transition signifies the final phase of Malaysia’s chairmanship, which officially ends on 31 December 2025, and the beginning of the Philippines’ term as ASEAN Chair in 2026.

Throughout its chairmanship under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” Malaysia hosted more than 300 ASEAN meetings during the year, reflecting its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation, promoting unity, and enhancing community resilience.

At the closing ceremony of the Summit, Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim formally handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr. of the Philippines, symbolizing the official transfer of leadership within the regional bloc.

“It is an honour for me to host the handover ceremony of the ASEAN Chairmanship to the Philippines,” Anwar said, expressing appreciation to ASEAN member states and dialogue partners for their continued cooperation. He underscored that “even small steps contribute to our collective pursuit of peace, stability, and justice,” and thanked partners for their steadfast support throughout Malaysia’s tenure.

Anwar added that ASEAN will begin a new chapter under the Philippines’ leadership on 1 January 2026.

President Marcos Jr. congratulated Malaysia for its successful chairmanship and reaffirmed the Philippines’ readiness to assume the role. “ASEAN is our ship, and 2026 will be the year we set full sail together toward our shared horizon,” he said.

Source and Photo Credit: ANTARA