US President Donald Trump departs Malaysia after attending ASEAN summit, witnessing KL Peace Accord signing and strengthening bilateral ties.
SEPANG: United States President Donald Trump departed from Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 10.06 am today following his participation in the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits.
His departure aboard Air Force One concluded a two-day visit to Malaysia, marking his first trip to the country since returning to office earlier this year as part of his multi-nation Asia tour.
Home Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail saw off the US President at the airport.
Earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Saifuddin and US Embassy representatives including Ambassador Edgard D. Kagan bid farewell to Trump at his hotel in the capital.
During the summit sidelines, Trump and Anwar witnessed the signing of the KL Peace Accord between Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
The agreement represents a formal step toward ending decades of border disputes between the two neighbouring nations.
Brokered under Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN 2025, the accord also established an ASEAN Observer Team to monitor peace efforts and ensure long-term border stability.
Trump commended Anwar for his “courage and historic role” in facilitating the accord, describing him as “a great and historic figure” who helped bring both sides together through dialogue.
The US President also held a bilateral meeting with Anwar where both leaders signed the Malaysia-US Reciprocal Trade Agreement and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
These agreements aim to strengthen cooperation in technology, energy and critical minerals between the two nations.
The signing ceremony featured a light-hearted moment when Anwar jokingly referred to Trump’s pen as the “White House pen,” prompting laughter from both leaders.
Trump attended the 13th ASEAN-US Summit where he reaffirmed Washington’s full commitment to Southeast Asia, pledging an enduring partnership under what he called the “golden age of America.”
He stated the United States remains dedicated to advancing a free, open and thriving Indo-Pacific while deepening cooperation with ASEAN nations in trade, investment and regional security.
“My message to the nations of Southeast Asia is that the United States is with you 100%, and we intend to be a strong partner and friend for many generations to come,” Trump told summit attendees.
The President praised Malaysia’s leadership under Anwar, noting his visit allowed him to witness firsthand the country’s achievements and progress.
“It has really been an amazing experience. I’ve only been here for a day, but the Prime Minister made sure I saw everything, every single thing,” Trump remarked.
He later described his maiden Asian tour as “an interesting time,” highlighting that new trade agreements with Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia and Thailand could yield significant regional economic benefits.
Trump said the United States looks forward to expanding collaboration in artificial intelligence, green technology and advanced manufacturing with ASEAN partners.
He emphasised ASEAN’s vital role in global growth and supply chains during his address.
Trump’s next destination is Japan before proceeding to South Korea for the 2025 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum.
He is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea before concluding his Asia tour. – Bernama
