Four ASEAN FMs to visit Myanmar on September 19 to review situation
67
Htet Nadi (NP News) - Aug 9
According to Malaysian media outlet Bernama, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, together with his counterparts from Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, plans to visit Myanmar on September 19 to assess the current situation.
Mohamad said the joint mission will evaluate developments under Myanmar’s new administration, following the dissolution of the State Administration Council (SAC) and the lifting of the state of emergency.
“In the past, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia made separate visits. This time, we’re going together to show unity,” he explained. “We’ve also included the Philippines because they will chair ASEAN in 2026. This way, the incoming Chair will already understand the priorities and the actions needed, ensuring continuity rather than a disjointed process. Our goal is to build on what has already been achieved.”
The minister made the remarks after attending the 58th ASEAN Day celebration, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He stressed that Myanmar must follow through on its promises, particularly the need to extend and broaden the ceasefire.
“I expect to travel there on September 19, ahead of the 47th ASEAN Summit in October,” he said.
Commenting on Myanmar’s announced plan to hold a general election, Mohamad noted that ending the state of emergency was consistent with the country’s Constitution. However, he said clarification was needed on whether the election would cover the entire country, as 63 townships remain under emergency rule imposed by the National Defence and Security Council (NDSC).
“Although the nationwide state of emergency has been lifted, these 63 townships are still under special restrictions,” he added. “I want a clearer understanding of the situation before presenting my findings to ASEAN leaders in October.”