PMO defends Trump invitation, says stance on Palestine remains 'firm'

Despite fierce criticism from various parties, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is standing firm on the invitation extended to US President Donald Trump to attend the 47th Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur next month.

Senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah said that while the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) takes note of the views against Trump’s summit attendance, opposing his visit is “not the solution”.

Nashrul also affirmed that Malaysia’s “clear, firm, and consistent” stance on Palestine has never changed, highlighting that Anwar himself is “among the most vocal voices in the world” in defending Gaza, condemning Israel’s atrocities, and leading the moral voice of the ummah on the international stage.

“The PMO acknowledges the views of certain quarters, including local political figures, calling for the invitation to Trump to be withdrawn due to his stance on the Palestine issue,” he said in the PMO’s daily briefing today.

“However, rejecting Trump’s presence at Asean is not the solution. The principles of diplomacy demand that we speak the truth face-to-face, not avoid it.

“In this way, Malaysia not only demonstrates solidarity with Gaza, but also shows wisdom as a host that is courageous, firm in principle, and mature in diplomacy,” he added.

Last Saturday, Anwar rebuked critics of the invitation to Trump, saying the summit would provide a diplomatic platform to continue raising the issue of Palestine.

On Sept 6, a coalition of 23 NGOs staged a protest in Kuala Lumpur against Trump’s planned visit.

Anwar's predecessor, Dr Mahathir Mohamad, had also called on him to rescind the invitation extended to Trump, urging Putrajaya to take a firm and visible stand against the atrocities committed by Israel with the backing of the US.

Earlier today, Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail called for maturity in responding to protests over Trump’s upcoming visit, emphasising that the Quran itself offers guidance on engaging even oppressive leaders.

On the controversy surrounding Trump’s invitation, Saifuddin clarified that it should not be seen as Malaysia endorsing the US leader.

Instead, he said, the move reflects Malaysia’s duty as Asean chairperson to represent the collective voice of all 10 member states through Anwar.

‘Asean must speak in one voice’

Expressing similar sentiments, Nashrul said that Malaysia has a duty to carry Asean’s voice to ensure that the summit is not solely focused on geopolitical issues, but more on a shared agenda.

This, he explained, includes strengthening economic cooperation, attracting strategic investments, expanding trade, and accelerating the region’s integration as a global economic power.

“Asean must speak in one voice, seizing opportunities with all dialogue partners - not only the US, but also China, Japan, Korea, Australia, and the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council).

“The leadership offered by Malaysia upholds the principles of universal justice, remains steadfast in defending Palestine, while also shouldering the great responsibility as the Asean chair to build a prosperous, stable, and secure region,” Nashrul added.

He said the government will ensure that the looming summit stands as proof that Malaysia is capable of leading with wisdom while being outspoken in defending the oppressed, resolute in championing the people’s interests, and judicious in balancing global diplomacy.

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