KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan undertook a one-day visit to Myanmar’s capital Naypyitaw on October 9 to engage with the ruling military junta on the country’s upcoming general election and to advocate for progress in the stalled peace process. The visit, conducted in Malaysia’s capacity as chair of ASEAN, included meetings with junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, Myanmar’s Prime Minister U Nyo Saw, and Foreign Minister U Than Swe.
The visit comes amid ongoing conflict and violence since Myanmar’s 2021 coup, with the military leaders barred from ASEAN meetings since 2022 due to their failure to honor commitments under ASEAN’s five-point peace plan. Mohamad reiterated calls for full and meaningful implementation of the plan, emphasizing cessation of hostilities, unhindered humanitarian access, and inclusive dialogue with all Myanmar stakeholders.
The general election, scheduled to begin on December 28, is widely viewed by critics as a sham intended to allow the military to maintain power through proxies, with many opposition groups barred or boycotting the vote.
Mohamad underscored that ASEAN prioritizes peace commitments over the election, urging the junta to adhere to its promises. The visit highlighted Malaysia’s continued support for a Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led resolution to the crisis, aligned with ASEAN’s goals for stability, peace, and national reconciliation in the region.
The visit took place against the backdrop of recent ceasefire violations undermining peace efforts and a deadly attack in Sagaing where at least 20 people were killed, deepening concerns about the fragile security situation in Myanmar. This diplomatic step signals ASEAN’s ongoing engagement with Myanmar despite the junta’s international isolation and underscores Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair in fostering dialogue toward a sustainable peace solution.