The Malaysian chair’s special envoy to Myanmar, Othman Hashim, will visit Naypyidaw and meet with senior officials of the State Administration Council (SAC) next week, according to an informed diplomatic source.
The source stated that Hashim will hold talks with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing in Naypyidaw during his three-day visit from February 6-8. He will also meet with other stakeholders.
In recent weeks, the SAC has signaled a willingness to engage in political dialogue with resistance groups.
Hashim, a veteran diplomat, was officially endorsed by ASEAN foreign ministers during their retreat on January 19. A former secretary-general of Malaysia's foreign ministry, he is tasked with facilitating the implementation of ASEAN’s five-point peace plan in Myanmar, where the civil war is intensifying.
Malaysia has reiterated that, under its leadership, the ASEAN chair will prioritize Myanmar’s peace process, which has made only “minimal progress.”
The cessation of violence, inclusive political dialogue, and humanitarian assistance will be key issues discussed during the meetings.
With the growing number of displaced people, there is an urgent need to deliver more humanitarian aid to affected villagers across all areas.
Following the "1027 campaign" last year, resistance forces have gained territorial control in rural areas across more than 100 townships.
However, the SAC retains administrative power while facing continued attacks from opposition forces, including ethnic armed organizations.
Malaysia has previously chaired ASEAN four times: in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
