Anwar seeks early Malaysia-Maldives Joint Commission meeting to resolve outstanding issues

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 — Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has suggested organizing the Malaysia-Maldives Joint Commission in the capital before the end of this year, with the aim of strengthening bilateral ties. The Commission would serve as a vital platform to tackle outstanding concerns and transform the strong bond between Malaysia and the Maldives into tangible cooperation.

Anwar emphasized that fostering bilateral relations should be grounded in a genuine understanding of each other's requirements and advantages, backed by mutual respect and trust on both leadership and personal levels. "That is why, when the President displayed such fondness and commitment, I then proposed that the Joint Commission between the two countries be facilitated at the earliest possible time," Anwar stated at a joint press conference alongside Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at the President's Office.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the Commission could also address matters affecting Maldivians residing in Malaysia, including students and individuals seeking medical care. With over 2,000 Maldivian students currently studying in Malaysia, the relationship between the two nations extends beyond friendship, as many Maldivians trust Malaysia's education system.

Anwar mentioned bureaucratic issues concerning parents accompanying their children studying in Malaysia, which he had discussed with his team and hoped could be resolved at the upcoming Cabinet meeting. "I don't think this is an issue of policy differences. We don't have problems with Maldivians living, working, or studying in Malaysia," the Prime Minister assured.

In terms of healthcare, Anwar noted that resolving issues for a small number of Maldivians in need of assistance should be addressed swiftly, in line with the compassionate values of the MADANI framework.