By Usha Muthusamy

KUALA LUMPUR, 31 July 2025: U.S. President Donald Trump has officially confirmed his participation in the 47th ASEAN Summit, scheduled to take place in Kuala Lumpur this October. The announcement was made by Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during his presentation of the 13th Malaysia Plan in Parliament.

President Trump’s confirmation follows a direct invitation extended to him through US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. During a phone call, President Trump also conveyed his appreciation for Malaysia’s recent pivotal role in mediating the resolution of the border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, acknowledging the diplomatic efforts that led to a ceasefire.

The leaders’ conversation further covered bilateral trade issues, including ongoing discussions on tariffs, which President Trump indicated he would review. This visit marks a significant moment for regional and international diplomacy, as the 13th ASEAN-US Summit is slated to coincide with the main 47th ASEAN Summit. The last time a U.S. president attended the summit in Kuala Lumpur was in November 2015, during the administration of Barack Obama. This upcoming presence underscores the continued importance of the ASEAN region in U.S. foreign policy and economic engagement.