In a surprising turn of events, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim found himself sharing a moment with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during China's grand Victory Day parade in Beijing on September 3.

"By chance, I met the leader of North Korea, Kim Jong Un, who was also present to watch the parade at Tiananmen Square. Had the chance to greet and say hello," shared Anwar on Facebook, posting a memorable photo of their handshake.

Social media was abuzz with excitement following the encounter, as many Malaysians expressed support and admiration for Anwar’s ability to engage with Kim, showcasing a potential thaw in relations.

This chance meeting came at a significant occasion, with both leaders joining 26 international figures in commemorating the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II.

It marked the first face-to-face interaction between the two nations' leaders since Malaysia severed diplomatic ties with North Korea in 2021, a consequence of the infamous assassination of Kim Jong Un's half-brother, Kim Jong Nam, in Kuala Lumpur in 2017.

Reflecting on history, it’s worth noting that the last significant connection came in 1979, when then Malaysian Deputy Premier Mahathir Mohamad met Kim Il Sung, laying the foundation for what was once a cooperative relationship between the two countries.