Prime Minister Hun Manet held a phone meeting with rotating ASEAN chair Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on the evening of April 29. The two discussed a wide range of issues, from the ongoing Myanmar conflict to the new tariffs imposed by the US administration of Donald Trump.

“During the call, we touched on areas of regional concern, including the Myanmar issue, the US tariffs and the path to Timor-Leste becoming the full member ASEAN,” explained Manet, via social media.

Ibrahim also took to social media to share what were discussed. He said he had provided an update on his recent engagements in Bangkok with Myanmar's Min Aung Hlaing of the State Administration Council (SAC) and Mahn Win Khaing Than of the National Unity Government (NUG), the government in exile.

“Both Manet and Wong welcomed these efforts as a constructive step towards the pursuit of a durable peace in Myanmar, and reaffirmed their support for Malaysia’s initiatives as ASEAN chair to sustain dialogue with all parties,” said Ibrahim, who held a separate call with Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on the same night.

“We also exchanged views on regional trade, including the tariffs imposed by the US. Malaysia, through the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, is actively pursuing discussions aimed at achieving outcomes that are fair and mutually beneficial,” he added.

Ibrahim noted that it was important to provide ASEAN member states with the space to seek resolutions through bilateral channels, while also conveying ASEAN’s cohesive position on trade-related issues. He urged the US to view ASEAN as a united and constructive force in shaping future economic policies and cooperation.

“Anchored in the spirit of friendship, mutual respect, and ASEAN centrality, we remain committed to working together to build a region that is peaceful, prosperous and resilient for all our peoples,” explained the ASEAN chair.

Cambodia was hit with 49 per cent tariffs on all US exports on April 2, although the proposed rate was later lowered to 10 per cent for a 90-day period, ostensibly to allow for negotiations to take place.

The initial tariffs announced on Malaysian goods was 24 per cent, based on Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs, which were based on the balance of trade.