Anwar jokes about Trump ‘almost going to jail’ during lighthearted exchange before peace signing
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim exchanged light-hearted banter with US President Donald Trump on 26 October, remarking that Trump had “almost got there” — referring to prison — ahead of the signing of the Cambodia–Thailand joint peace agreement at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur. The leaders later witnessed the signing, which follows months of deadly border clashes between the two neighbouring nations.
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim exchanged friendly remarks with U.S. President Donald Trump at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
- The meeting took place ahead of the signing of the Cambodia–Thailand joint peace agreement, following months of cross-border conflict.
- Anwar praised Trump’s courage and unconventional diplomacy, crediting such qualities for advancing regional peace efforts.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim exchanged lighthearted banter with U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday, ahead of the signing of the Cambodia–Thailand joint peace agreement.
Anwar remarked that he and Trump shared certain similarities — including their brushes with controversy — joking that while he had spent time in prison, Trump had narrowly avoided it.
The remark drew laughter from those attending the ceremony, held on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.
Acknowledging leadership and courage
He also acknowledged Trump’s determination and courage, describing such qualities as vital for leaders seeking to build peace in an increasingly divided world.
Anwar added that effective diplomacy sometimes requires breaking convention, referencing Trump’s earlier decision to flout protocol by inviting him to ride together in his car before the event.
ASEAN leaders witness signing after deadly conflict
Trump, who arrived in Kuala Lumpur on the morning of 26 October 2025, witnessed the signing alongside Anwar and other ASEAN leaders.
The peace deal follows months of deadly clashes between Thailand and Cambodia that erupted in July, leaving more than 40 people dead and displacing about 300,000.
Malaysia, with U.S. support, helped broker the ceasefire first agreed on 28 July 2025, though sporadic violations have persisted since.
