Malaysia, Maldives Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthen Bilateral Relations

28 April 2025

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia and the Republic of Maldives have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing collaboration across various sectors.

The commitment was made during the four-day official visit, which began on Sunday, by Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to Malaysia, at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

In a joint statement issued today, both leaders emphasised their shared vision for promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development while addressing pressing global and regional challenges.

Recognising the potential of their respective economies, Anwar and Muizzu expressed confidence in the continued growth of trade, tourism, and investment activities. Muizzu also invited Malaysian investors to actively explore the vast investment opportunities in the Maldives across multiple sectors.

“In the tourism sector, both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation by taking advantage of the ‘Visit Malaysia 2026’ campaign and exploring the potential for increasing tourism flows between the two countries, including opportunities in Muslim-Friendly Tourism and Halal Tourism.

“Noting the global momentum for high-quality halal products and services, Anwar conveyed Malaysia’s readiness to share its experience and expertise to support the Maldives’ efforts in the sector,” the statement said.

Anwar and Muizzu also agreed to promote greater cultural exchanges through programmes involving literature, performing arts, training, education, and expert exchanges to raise public awareness of the culture and history of Malaysia and the Maldives.

On the education front, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering closer collaboration between higher education institutions. They agreed to create more opportunities and a supportive environment for students, particularly through the relaxation of visa policies.

Both leaders welcomed the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on cooperation in tourism, health, and sports, as well as the Exchange of Notes on diplomatic training and regular bilateral consultations.

Muizzu also expressed his appreciation for Malaysia’s cooperative and friendly environment, which has benefited Maldivians travelling to Malaysia for tourism, education, and medical purposes.

On global issues, Malaysia and the Maldives agreed to work closely on addressing climate change, particularly in strengthening efforts for climate finance and supporting initiatives towards COP30 in Belém, Brazil later this year.

Anwar and Muizzu also reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, condemning terrorism, supporting the Palestinian cause, and addressing humanitarian crises, including the situation in Myanmar,” it said.

This visit marked the President’s inaugural visit to Malaysia since assuming office on 17 November 2023. The visit was a significant step in reinforcing the longstanding diplomatic relations established between the two nations in 1968.