The United States is considering a high-profile appearance at the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit this October, with President Donald Trump potentially making the trip. US Secretary of State and National Security Adviser Marco Rubio confirmed the possibility during his visit to Malaysia, saying that discussions are underway to finalize the schedule for the long-anticipated ASEAN–US Special Summit.
When asked about Trump’s potential attendance, Rubio said, “It’s possible,” while adding that Washington and ASEAN leaders are actively working to pin down a date.
Rubio is currently in Kuala Lumpur attending the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with the US. Upon arrival, he was welcomed by Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. His visit follows President Trump’s recent announcement on new tariffs and signals Washington’s renewed focus on Southeast Asia after months dominated by international conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
During a meeting earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim met with Rubio and described their conversation as “productive.” He noted the United States’ willingness to review existing trade tariffs and reaffirmed the Biden administration’s interest in strengthening diplomatic and economic engagement with Malaysia and the wider ASEAN community.
Malaysia, which holds the 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship, had earlier reached out to Washington regarding the summit. In May, Foreign Minister Mohamad confirmed that Malaysia was still waiting for an official reply on the date for the ASEAN–US Special Summit.
“The Prime Minister has formally invited the US to hold the summit this year,” Mohamad stated. “We’re optimistic that positive news is on the horizon.”
If confirmed, Trump’s attendance would mark a significant moment in US–ASEAN relations and could serve as a platform to reinforce the administration’s Indo-Pacific strategy amid rising regional tensions and evolving economic dynamics.
