Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim opened the East Asia summit by urging leaders to prioritize dialogue and cooperation amid intensifying rivalry between the United States and China. The summit, attended by regional powers and key partners, addressed pressing issues such as South China Sea tensions, supply chain resilience, and ongoing crises in Myanmar. Anwar emphasized the importance of multilateralism, international law, and peaceful engagement, warning against external pressure that could escalate disputes. The summit also saw renewed commitments to regional economic integration through the Regional Economic Comprehensive Partnership, with leaders highlighting its role in strengthening economic resilience and reducing reliance on unilateral actions.