KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is deeply concerned about the situation in Myanmar and is hopeful that it will return to democracy soon, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said.
Based on humanitarian grounds, he said Malaysia continues to render assistance and protection to the Rohingya in the country.
"We remain committed to supporting the work of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Special Envoy to find a peaceful solution in Myanmar.
"We are also hopeful that the current situation will not escalate further. This will have an adverse impact on the repatriation of displaced Rohingya to Myanmar," he said in his intervention notes at the 13th Asia-Europe Summit (ASEM 13) which was held virtually today.
Ismail Sabri said ASEM's key principles of multi-dimensional, equal partnership and mutual understanding form the important elements of solidarity in Asia-Europe cooperation.
As a strong proponent of multilateralism, he said, Malaysia is committed to resolving conflicts through peaceful and constructive dialogue.
"Malaysia stresses the importance of global peace, security and stability. We subscribe to the essence of peaceful co-existence.
"We see it as a means of solving existing geopolitical issues, territorial integrity and sovereignty of other states.
"The concept of ASEM, coming together as a Big Family, can be the basis for our interaction, engagement and actions in resolving issues.
"By understanding each other's differences, we develop the ability to empathise with others. By focusing on commonalities, we are able to connect better and think more strategically (and) by being united as a family, we are able to do much more and celebrate humanity."
The prime minister reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to the ASEM process to address pressing regional and international issues.
"We believe that by strengthening solidarity, we will ensure peace, stability and prosperity for our two regions.
"As the saying goes, 'Just like a tree, the branches grow in different directions but our roots will remain as one'."
ASEM comprises 21 Asian countries, 28 European Union member nations, two non-EU European countries, the Asean Secretariat and the European Commission. It is an intergovernmental process established on March 1, 1996, to foster dialogue and cooperation between Asia and Europe.
Malaysia joined ASEM in 1996 and has since actively participated in all ASEM initiatives that benefit both regions.
This year's theme, "Strengthening Multilateralism for Shared Growth", aligns with current efforts undertaken by ASEM in tackling pressing global challenges through effective dialogue cooperation.
The two-day virtual summit, which began on Thursday, is hosted by Cambodia, the current chair of ASEM.
