Kuala lumpur: Newly elected Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi arrived in Malaysia to attend the 47th ASEAN Summit and Related Summits, which are being held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from October 26 to 28. This visit marks her first trip to Kuala Lumpur following her election as Japan's first female prime minister on October 21.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the special aircraft carrying Takaichi and her delegation landed at the Bunga Raya Complex of the Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 7.29 pm. They were welcomed by Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories), Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, and Takaichi subsequently inspected a guard of honour comprising 28 officers and personnel from the First Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment.

Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata previously stated that Takaichi's visit is a significant opportunity to underscore Japan's ongoing support for ASEAN centrality and Malaysia's leadership as ASEAN Chair this year. During her visit, Takaichi is expected to engage with Malaysian leaders to explore avenues for enhancing collaboration in maritime security, economic resilience, green transition, and humanitarian affairs within the ASEAN framework.

Malaysia, holding the position of ASEAN Chair 2025, will host over 30 world leaders, including those from the ASEAN region, the United States, China, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. The summit aims to deepen engagement and cooperation while addressing regional and global issues of mutual concern. Leaders from global organizations such as the United Nations, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) are also scheduled to attend the high-profile meetings.