KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia stands firmly with the Philippines and has extended humanitarian assistance to ease the suffering faced following Tropical Storm Kristine which hit the country, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

In a Facebook post, he said that such tragedies highlighted the importance of unity and close regional cooperation.

"To President Bongbong (Philippine President Ferdinand Romualdez Marcos Jr) and the people of the Philippines, I express my condolences and Malaysia stands firmly with the Philippines and will never ignore its neighbours especially in times of distress and tragedy.

"While we mobilize immediate assistance, we both state the need to contribute to long-term recovery as well as initiatives towards reconstruction," read the post

Anwar also shared that he received a phone call from Marcos who is also his good friend, during which he reiterated Malaysia's full support for the Philippines during this challenging time.

The Prime Minister also reiterated his determination to enhance collaboration with the Philippines to strengthen disaster planning and response, not only to fortify bilateral relations but also to bolster the region's resilience.

On Oct 27, a Royal Malaysian Air Force EC 725 AP helicopter of Squadron No. 5 at Labuan Air Base was mobilised in a Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Mission (HADR) to deliver essential goods to the affected areas in the Philippines