Anwar calls for Malaysia-Maldives ties to deliver tangible gains in trade, tourism and digital economy

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for Malaysia and the Maldives to leverage their parliamentary bonds to bolster trade, tourism, and the digital economy. As fellow Commonwealth nations, the two countries possess a wealth of experience to share in bolstering institutions, governance, and public sector capabilities. In his Facebook post, Anwar emphasized that both nations could learn from each other’s approaches to strengthening parliamentary cooperation.

During his two-day official visit to the Maldives, Anwar held multiple meetings with key Maldives leaders to explore avenues for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. These discussions included education, defence, trade, investment, tourism, the halal industry, and the digital economy. Furthermore, Anwar addressed the potential for enhanced collaboration in higher education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), professional training, and human capital development.

Anwar also engaged in talks with Maldives Vice-President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and Maldives Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam to gauge the growing momentum in bilateral relations. To capitalize on these positive ties, officials and businesses from both nations are urged to identify specific opportunities in trade, investment, tourism, the halal industry, and the digital economy, thereby translating mutual goodwill into practical benefits.

In addition to these economic engagements, Anwar highlighted the importance of addressing climate resilience and sustainable development concerns, particularly considering the unique challenges faced by the Maldives as an island nation. He reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and his government, concluding his official visit to the Maldives after an invitation from the country’s leader.