Marcos extends birthday wishes to 'dear friend' Malaysian PM Anwar

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday extended his warm birthday wishes to his "dear friend," Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, as he recalled their experiences together as leaders.

In a video posted on social media by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Marcos recounted his friendship with the Malaysian leader, which he said helped them bear the challenges of leadership in Southeast Asia.

"To my dear friend, Prime Minister Anwar, I am so happy to be able to greet you on your special day. We have known each other for some years now. Even before we assumed our roles as fellow leaders in ASEAN," Marcos said.

"Our friendship has helped make the challenges of leadership more bearable. Sometimes I dare say, even enjoyable. For me, you are more than just a neighbor in ASEAN, you are a trusted friend with whom I share many fond memories," he added.

Marcos also commended Anwar's dedication to Malaysia and considered their shared vision, challenges, and success as source of inspiration to continue navigating the future of their respective nations.

"Much has been done, yet much is left to do. And I am glad that I have a dear friend with me as we navigate the uncertainties that lie ahead. From sharing the microphone at karaoke night to sharing the floor at the bilateral and multilateral levels, we've come some way," he said.

Before he ended his message, the President expressed his gratitude to the Malaysian Prime Minister, citing opportunities, ideas and learnings they shared in steering the Philippines and Malaysia towards peace and prosperity, as well as for the bonds that their families share.

"On a personal note, I want to emphasize how much I value the bonds that our families share. Your wisdom, kindness, and strength have been invaluable to me. And I look forward to more years of friendship and cooperation," he said. (PNA)