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MALAYSIA is stepping up its international economic engagement by strengthening ties beyond the ASEAN bloc, with the Maldives emerging as a key partner, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced during the 2025 Maldives-Malaysia Business Forum today.
Delivering his keynote address at the event, Anwar stressed that while ASEAN remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s regional diplomacy, the country must also cultivate partnerships with like-minded nations committed to sustainable development and prosperity.
“In this context, the Maldives represents an important partner. We value not only the longstanding people-to-people ties between Malaysia and Maldives but also see tremendous potential to expand our collaboration in trade, investment, digital innovation, and environmental sustainability,” he said.
The forum coincided with the official visit of Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to Malaysia—his first since taking office in November 2023. The visit took place at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar.
Anwar underscored the close bilateral relationship between the two nations, noting their shared policy frameworks and deep-rooted friendship.
“With the current government leadership in the Maldives, there is now a clear determination to move the country up the ladder with greater policy clarity,” he added.
The day’s proceedings included the formal exchange of three memoranda of understanding and two notes of cooperation, covering various sectors and reflecting a commitment to broaden bilateral economic cooperation.
Trade figures between the two countries continue to show positive momentum. In 2024, Malaysia’s total trade with the Maldives grew by 4.3 per cent to US$189 million (RM862.7 million), compared to US$180.9 million (RM827.3 million) in 2023.
This growth cements the Maldives’ position as Malaysia’s sixth-largest trading partner in South Asia. - April 28, 2025
