Malaysia symbolically hands over Asean baton to the Philippines

Chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim hands over a gavel to the Philippines President Bongbong Marcos, as a symbol of handing over Asean chairmanship from Malaysia to the Philippines, during a closing ceremony of the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, October 28, 2025. -REUTERS/Hasnoor Hussain

KUALA LUMPUR: As the 47th Asean Summit and Related Summit draws to a close, the Philippines has symbolically received the Asean chairmanship from Malaysia.

Philippine President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said it is an honour for his country to chair Asean in 2026.

"We are committed to carrying forward your momentum and implement in its first year, the Asean Community Vision 2045.

"Likewise, we remain dedicated to facilitating the integration of Timor-Leste in the Asean family," said Marcos in his closing remarks during the ceremony to handover the Asean chairmanship to the Philippines on Tuesday (Oct 28).

Marcos also praised Malaysia for its successful Asean chairmanship in 2025.

"This year, Malaysia steered Asean with clarity and conviction," he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who spoke earlier, also wished Marcos all the best.

"To my friend 'Bongbong', good luck as you assume this responsibility.

"I have every confidence that under your steady hands, Asean will continue acting with clarity, composure and that the warmth the Filipino people are known for," said Anwar.

The 47th Asean Summit and Related Summits began on Oct 26 and will end on Tuesday evening.