Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has emphasised that deep-rooted people-to-people connections are the cornerstone of the long-standing friendship between Australia and Malaysia. In a heartfelt video posted on her official Instagram account, Wong reflected on the countries’ shared history and mutual belief in regional cooperation as key pillars of their diplomatic ties.
“The friendship between Australia and Malaysia is built on our shared history and the close relationships between our peoples,” said Wong in the 85-second video, which features moments from her childhood in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, alongside scenes from the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) held last week in Kuala Lumpur.
Wong noted that this year marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, and reaffirmed Australia’s support for Malaysia’s leadership as the current ASEAN Chair. She also stressed Australia’s commitment to working closely with regional partners in pursuit of a safer, more stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, with ASEAN playing a central role.
Born in Malaysia and raised in Australia, Wong said her personal journey mirrors that of many modern Australians. “Almost half of all Australians were born overseas or have a parent who was born overseas. My story is a modern Australian story,” she shared.
She concluded by highlighting how Australia’s multicultural fabric strengthens its ability to build meaningful ties globally — especially in Southeast Asia — by fostering greater understanding and common ground.
