Japan, Malaysia agree to deepen ties over security, energy

Ishiba is clearly starting to believe his own propaganda the way he rattles on about "security based on the rule of law".

He is trying to draw Malaysia into his and his hegemon's power struggle against Beijing.

Kuala Lumpur won't subscribe to that juvenile trickery.

It'd be good if Tokyo could grow up and demonstrate some autonomy, let alone sovereignty. Don't hold your breath.

This will balance China influence and is a good thing.

Readers know I am not anti China, but these arrangements offer a buffer against Chinese encroachment OUTSIDE the China sphere of influence.

Plus Malaysia, like Indonesia are Asian giants ready to take on responsibilities for their own areas.

Plus Laksa rocks.!

There's still a long way to go, but this is a small first step toward realizing Ishiba's vision of Asian security alliances ('Asian NATO') against Chinese imperialism.

Obviously USA is pushing its vassal state into trying to counter this perceived threat from a made-up bogeyman. Neither Malaysia and Indonesia are going to be playing these games and are not going to sacrifice themselves for any war games created by USA.

Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere 2.0

It was aimed at China then, as now.

Think about it. Only now they are trying to pull it off by hiding under someone else's apron (on their orders).

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim 10 months ago, "If they have a problem with China they should not impose it on us. We do not have a problem with China."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9VdVlZ3GHU

He can kiss goodbye the chance of ever getting a permanent seat at the table too. Should inform his buddies in Berlin too.