ASEAN and Japan first established informal dialogue relations in 1973, which was later formalised in March 1977 with the convening of the ASEAN-Japan Forum.
On 14 March 2025, H.E Sarah received a courtesy call by H.E Kiya Masahiko, Ambassador of Japan to ASEAN where both sides exchanged views on areas to strengthen cooperation including AOIP and disaster preparedness. Priorities under Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship were also discussed in great length during the Meeting.