Sultan Ibrahim returned to Malaysia this morning following a historic state visit to Russia, marking the first time a Malaysian Head of State has visited the country since diplomatic relations were established in 1967.
The Malaysia King's private jet arrived at Senai International Airport in Johor at 6.30am.
The trip, which was Sultan Ibrahim's fourth state visit since ascending the throne on Jan 31, 2024, was made at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Prior to this, His Majesty had undertaken state visits to Singapore, China, and Brunei.
During an official meeting with President Putin at the Moscow Kremlin, Sultan Ibrahim underscored Malaysia's perspective of Russia as a "trusted and important partner."
He emphasised his "sincere wish to strengthen ties and cooperation" between the two nations, quoting a Russian saying, "friendship is more valuable than money," as a guiding principle for future relations.
Putin, in turn, praised the established political dialogue and continuous engagement between Moscow and Kuala Lumpur, highlighting Malaysia's effective role in the Russia-Islamic World strategic vision group.
The royal visit also included a trip to Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, a prominent autonomous republic within Russia. There, Sultan Ibrahim identified significant potential for collaboration in key sectors such as petrochemicals, innovation, Islamic finance, and the halal industry. His Majesty also expressed satisfaction with the growing cultural and economic engagements between the people of Malaysia and Tatarstan.
The special flight carrying Sultan Ibrahim departed Kazan International Airport yesterday, at 11.08am local time. He was accompanied to the airport by the Rais (Head) of the Republic of Tatarstan, Rustam Minnikhanov.
Upon his return to Senai International Airport, Sultan Ibrahim was welcomed by members of the Johor royal family, including the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail, the Tunku Panglima of Johor, Tunku Abdul Rahman Sultan Ibrahim, and Tunku Putera of Johor, Tunku Abu Bakar Sultan Ibrahim.