Anwar Jokes About Dancing With Trump, Not Xi, While Defending ASEAN Neutrality

At the Nikkei Forum’s Q&A session on “Navigating Strategic Uncertainty,” Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to strategic independence, engagement with all major powers, and a principled defense of free trade amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Addressing questions about ASEAN’s role in an increasingly fragmented world, Anwar stressed that the region should avoid being drawn into rival geopolitical camps. He noted that Malaysia maintains warm relations with leaders from across the global spectrum, citing engagements with Japanese, American, Chinese, and other world leaders as evidence of its balanced foreign policy approach.

Using a light-hearted anecdote, Anwar joked that he had danced during a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump but not during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit, simply because “Xi said he doesn’t dance.” The remark drew laughter while underscoring his broader point that friendly engagement with one country should not be interpreted as opposition to another.

The Prime Minister emphasized that ASEAN’s strength lies in its centrality and ability to engage all major powers. He pointed to ASEAN’s partnerships with Japan, the United States, China, and Russia, arguing that dialogue must continue even when disagreements exist.

“Do we agree with all the issues or decisions by President Trump? Of course not. Or with Russia? Certainly we have differences, but we collaborate well,” he said.

Anwar also called on countries to be more vocal in defending free trade and multilateralism. He argued that nations should not remain silent when confronted with punitive tariffs or discriminatory trade policies.

“If we support free trade, then say it as a policy,” he said, adding that leadership requires the courage to express convictions even when doing so is difficult.

Reflecting on discussions with students at the University of Tokyo, Anwar said younger generations are increasingly demanding leaders who speak with confidence and stand firmly by their principles.

His remarks reinforced Malaysia’s position that ASEAN should remain open, independent, and engaged with all partners while championing dialogue, economic cooperation, and a rules-based international order.

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