Photos by Lorna Llanes   Upon the invitation of His Excellency Enrique A. Manalo, Foreign Affairs Secretary of the Republic of the Philippines, The Honorable Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Haji Hasan embarked on an official visit to the Philippines on July 1, 2024. While in the Philippines, the Foreign Minister paid a courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. at Malacañang Palace. During the meeting, President Marcos and the Foreign Minister affirmed their commitments to strengthen Malaysia-Philippine relations. They also discussed regional-related matters. The Foreign Minister also had a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, Secretary Manalo, at the Peninsula Hotel where they affirmed the strength of their countries’ bilateral relations and discussed ways to further deepen cooperation between Malaysia and the Philippines – including in the areas of trade and investment, halal industry, food security, connectivity as well as the socioeconomic development on Mindanao. During both the courtesy call and bilateral meeting, the Foreign Minister reaffirmed that as ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia will place great importance on ASEAN Centrality for the benefit of the region as a whole. The Foreign Minister also highlighted the need for greater cooperation among ASEAN Member States, including in economic cooperation. The year 2024 is significant for Malaysia and the Philippines as it is the 60th year of the two countries’ bilateral relations. To commemorate this milestone, a gala dinner was hosted with the presence of the Foreign Minister as the Guest of Honor. In his remarks, the Foreign Minister stressed that the celebration of the 60th anniversary of Malaysia-Philippine diplomatic relations is not just about looking back at achievements, but also about renewing their commitment to a shared future. The Foreign Minister invited the Philippines to continue to work hand-in-hand to promote peace, prosperity, and stability...... Read more on Full Issue!