Kuala lumpur: The participation of United States President Donald Trump at the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur is the result of a consensus among all ASEAN member states, not an exclusive decision by Malaysia as the host.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi emphasized that as the current ASEAN Chair, Malaysia respects the collective decision made by all 10 ASEAN leaders. He noted that while Malaysia follows ASEAN's diplomatic consensus, it maintains a firm stance against any form of United States interference in issues concerning Gaza and Palestine.

Dr Ahmad Zahid stated, "Trump is the President of the United States, but that does not stop us from expressing our disagreement should there be any interference by the US in matters related to Gaza and Palestine. Our position has never changed. However, as the ASEAN Chair, Malaysia must respect the unanimous decision of ASEAN leaders."

He shared these remarks during a press conference following the launch of the Johor-level Mara Education Foundation Squad 2025 at Arena Larkin Indoor Stadium. Additionally, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that the issue of Trump's attendance might be raised during the upcoming Parliament sitting, which begins tomorrow, highlighting the possibility of a private member's bill to debate the matter. "They are free to differ in opinion, but we must respect the decision made by the ASEAN Secretariat," he said.