Anwar looks to deepen ties with new South Korean president
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has congratulated Lee Jae-myung on his election as South Korea's new president, calling it a turning point for the nation.
Lee was declared president earlier today after winning a snap election, taking the helm of a country deeply divided following his predecessor's failed attempt to declare martial law.
In a statement, Anwar said South Korea had emerged from a period of intense political contest and scrutiny with resilience and democratic resolve.
"The people have spoken for renewal: of trust, of institutions, and of national purpose," he said in a Facebook post.
Anwar said he looked forward to working with President Lee to deepen ties in trade, technology, peace, security and people-to-people exchanges.
He noted that Malaysia-South Korea relations were elevated to a Strategic Partnership in November 2024 — a milestone reflecting both countries' shared ambitions.
He hopes that Asean would take on a more prominent role in Seoul's regional outlook.
"As chairs of Asean and Apec respectively in 2025, Malaysia and the Republic of Korea are well placed to lead impactful regional initiatives. In a time of global flux, deeper partnership between Southeast Asia and South Korea will be indispensable to us all," he said.
Anwar added that he looked forward to meeting President Lee in Kuala Lumpur this October for the Asean-led Summits, and again in Gyeongju for the Apec Economic Leaders' Meeting.
"Malaysia wishes him wisdom and success in the journey ahead," he said.
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