Kuala Lumpur: The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has expressed concern over the humanitarian and political situation in Myanmar, noting that limited progress has been made in restoring peace since the military coup in 2021.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, GCC Assistant Secretary General for Political and Negotiation Affairs, Dr Abdel Aziz Abu Hamad Aluwaisheg, emphasized that the international community must not remain silent and called for more concrete solutions. 'We are extremely concerned about what's happening in Myanmar,' he stated in an exclusive interview.

Dr Aluwaisheg is currently in the capital attending the 2nd ASEAN-GCC Summit and the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, which are set to take place alongside the 46th ASEAN Summit on May 26 and 27. ASEAN's response to the Myanmar crisis has centered around the Five-Point Consensus adopted in 2021, which includes a call for an immediate cessation of violence and dialogue among all parties.

Dr Aluwaisheg mentioned that the GCC had consistently raised the Myanmar issue in past meetings with ASEAN and reaffirmed its support for broader multilateral efforts. He noted that while the United Nations is attempting to play a role, its efforts are being frustrated by the Myanmar government. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation has also been involved in efforts to address the crisis.

He further stressed the importance of the safe and dignified return of displaced Rohingya refugees, many of whom are in neighboring countries, and called for stronger international support for the UN's ongoing efforts in Bangladesh.

Myanmar's deepening crisis has posed a major test for ASEAN. As Chair of ASEAN in 2025, Malaysia has been taking a leading role in facilitating constructive engagement with stakeholders to find a sustainable solution to the crisis.