DFA Undersecretary, Malaysian Deputy Secretary General Discuss Bilateral Partnership During Meeting in Putrajaya

KUALA LUMPUR 26 February 2025 — DFA Undersecretary for Bilateral Relations and ASEAN Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro met with Deputy Secretary General (Bilateral Affairs) of the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dato’ Ahmad Rozian bin Abd. Ghani, in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Putrajaya, Malaysia on 25 February 2025.

The two officials had a wide-ranging discussion on the robust bilateral partnership between the two countries, especially in the maritime domain. They had a frank exchange of views on the current situation in the South China Sea, but also explored possible areas of bilateral cooperative activities in the maritime domain. Both sides recognized that such practical engagement that do not prejudice national positions would contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability in the area. 

In addition, the two officials noted the progress of negotiations towards a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea. The Philippines welcomed Malaysia’s leadership in this effort as the co-chair, and expressed the hope that innovations in the process will yield significant progress especially on tackling the milestone issues. 

In addition, both sides discussed the importance of addressing humanitarian concerns of Filipinos in Sabah. 

The two officials also discussed pending bilateral agreements, multilateral cooperation and international  developments. 

The meeting demonstrated the deep and robust bilateral partnership between the Philippines and Malaysia. The two countries will convene the 9th Philippines-Malaysia Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) in Manila later this year. END