Kuala Lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has extended his warmest congratulations to Lee Jae-myung on his election as the President of South Korea. He remarked that this marks a turning point for South Korea, a nation that has emerged from a period of intense contest and scrutiny with resilience and democratic resolve. 'The people have spoken for renewal of trust, of institutions, and of national purpose,' he said in a Facebook post today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed his eagerness to collaborate with President Lee to strengthen the friendship between Malaysia and South Korea in various domains such as trade, technology, peace, and security. The relationship between the two nations reached a significant milestone in November 2024 when it was elevated to a Strategic Partnership, reflecting their shared ambitions.

Anwar also highlighted Malaysia's role as Chair of ASEAN in 2025, expressing hope for ASEAN's increased involvement in South Korea's regional outlook. Meanwhile, South Korea holds the chair of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). Anwar emphasized the potential for both countries to lead impactful regional initiatives as Chairs of ASEAN and APEC, respectively, in 2025. He noted that in a time of global flux, a deeper partnership between Southeast Asia and South Korea will be indispensable.

Furthermore, Anwar conveyed his wishes for Lee's wisdom and success in the journey ahead and looks forward to meeting him in Kuala Lumpur this October for the ASEAN Summit, and later in Gyeongju, South Korea, for the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting. Lee officially commenced his five-year term after the National Election Commission confirmed his election victory during a plenary session. The liberal Democratic Party candidate won the election with 49.42 percent of the vote, defeating his rival Kim Moon-soo of the conservative People Power Party, who received 41.15 percent.