"Malaysian Prime Minister Stands Firm Against US Pressure on China Relations"

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim defended ties with China and criticized alleged pressure from the US and its allies to take sides in the strategic rivalry with Beijing during the ASEAN summit in Melbourne. He emphasized Malaysia's independence and its positive relationship with China, despite being an important friend to the US and Europe. The Philippines urged regional unity in upholding the rule of law in the South China Sea, while Vice President Kamala Harris emphasized the need to stand up for territorial integrity and freedom of navigation in the disputed waters during her visit to the Philippines in November.