Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will continue to strengthen diplomatic relations with major world powers and ASEAN member states to ensure that the progress achieved ultimately brings direct benefits to the people, particularly farmers, smallholders, and paddy farmers. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of maintaining good relations with countries such as the United States, China, and Australia to ensure Malaysia is regarded as a stable country capable of safeguarding the welfare of its people.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister highlighted the need for closer international cooperation to address global challenges such as the climate crisis, which has begun to threaten the agricultural sector and food security. Anwar shared details of his recent discussion with former United States Vice President Al Gore, where they talked about the global climate crisis, Malaysia's energy transition, and the haze situation in Serian, Sarawak, which prompted an emergency declaration in the district.

Anwar pointed out the unpredictable nature of the climate crisis, citing examples like the melting of glaciers in the Himalayas, which has caused massive floods in Nepal, affecting lives and safety in the region. He emphasized the importance of proper planning for foreseeable challenges, such as reducing dependence on fossil fuels and coal, as part of Malaysia's ongoing energy transition efforts.

At the closing ceremony of the Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture, and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026, Anwar revealed that Malaysia is actively developing undersea cable routes to transmit renewable energy through cooperation with Vietnam and Sarawak to Johor and Singapore. This initiative is expected to benefit Sabah, Kalimantan, and southern Philippines and aligns with Malaysia's energy transition policy to support the sustainability of the local agricultural sector.

Additionally, Anwar shared a recent phone conversation with former Indonesian President Joko Widodo, who is currently in Penang, to reinforce the friendship between the two countries. He expressed regret for not being able to meet Widodo in person due to commitments with the MAHA event, which focused on supporting smallholders, paddy farmers, and the agricultural community.