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President Rodrigo Duterte leaves on Wednesday for Thailand to pay respects to their deceased king and to Malaysia for state visit.

Duterte is expected to lay a wreath and sign the book of condolence at around 1pm as he pays his last respects to late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. After that, he will proceed to Kuala Lumpur and meet with the Filipino community.

During his meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, the two leaders are expected to discuss economic and security cooperation.

Asked if the Philippine claim on Sabah would be brought up by Duterte during his meeting with Najib, Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella said in a press briefing that it was not on the table.

Abella said earlier statement of Nur Misuari, founding chairman of the former secessionist Moro National Liberation Front, accusing some Malaysian leaders of their involvement in the kidnapping incidents, including in Sipadan Island in 2000, was his own allegation.

"That was the position of Misuari and if it’s talked about in the sidelines, then it will be talked about. But it’s not the government position," he said.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has said Duterte's visit to Malaysia is part of his introductory visits to countries in the Southeast Asian region.

"The visit hopes to further deepen Philippine-Malaysia ties for the mutual benefit of the two countries and their people," DFA spokesman Charles Jose has said. Celerina Monte/DMS