"Malaysian PM Defends Independence Amid US-China Pressure at ASEAN Summit"

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended his country's ties with China and criticized alleged pressure from the United States and its allies during the Asean summit in Australia, emphasizing Malaysia's independence and refusal to be dictated by external forces. He highlighted China's significant investment in Malaysia and announced new bilateral agreements with Australia, while rejecting the notion of being forced to choose sides in strategic rivalries. This comes amid regional tensions over territorial disputes in the South China Sea, with the Philippines urging stronger unity in upholding the rule of law, and US Vice-President Kamala Harris advocating for international action against "irresponsible behavior" in the disputed waters.