Malaysia has renewed its commitment to the Philippines that it will continue to support the peace efforts in Mindanao for the benefit of both countries.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim made the pronouncement as he learned of a resolution passed by the Bangsamoro Transition Authority Parliament, which expressed its gratitude to the Malaysian leader for his backing of the peace process in Mindanao.
Anwar's concern, according to Resolution No. 318, "exemplifies his adherence to the message of Prophet Muhammad, the Messenger of Allah, that 'The parable of the believers in their affection, mercy, and compassion for each other is that of a body. When any limb aches, the whole body reacts with sleeplessness and fever."
In his statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Ibrahim said: "As I stated before, this peace process must succeed not only for the benefit of Malaysia and the Philippines, but also for the entire region."
"Malaysia will continue to support the efforts led by President Marcos Jr. to ensure that the peace process in Mindanao achieves its objectives," he added.
His statement was written in Bahasa Melayu. The internet translation of which into English was confirmed as accurate by a ranking Malaysian diplomat in Manila.
Ibrahim said Malaysia is also willing to provide assistance in capacity building and socio-economic development of the Bangsamoro community to be able to contribute to its success.
Ibrahim first assured Manila of Kuala Lumpur's support in the peace process when he visited the Philippines in March 2023.
He said the assistance would be done through "various capacity-building programs, including through our Malaysia technical cooperation program."
"On the peace process in Mindanao, I must express again my profound thanks and gratitude. Under your leadership, President, you have seen great strides in this direction," Anwar told President Marcos.
"It is only our duty, as a good neighbor, to support and facilitate the process. Malaysia has assured the Philippines of continued help to pave the way to a stable Bangsamoro administration in Mindanao," he added.
During their bilateral talk, Marcos and Ibrahim vowed to also enhance political, security, trade cooperation