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

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed his belief that Malaysia and the Maldives can enhance parliamentary cooperation through various means, such as exchange visits, knowledge sharing, and participation in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) platform. As fellow Commonwealth members, the two nations have significant potential to learn from each other's experiences in improving institutions, governance, and public sector capacity.

During a two-day official visit, Anwar engaged in numerous meetings with the Maldives leadership to expand cooperation in various sectors, including education, defence, trade, investment, tourism, the halal industry, and the digital economy. Discussions also took place on strengthening higher education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), professional training, and human capital development.

Furthermore, the Maldives Vice-President and the Foreign Minister were invited to dialogue on the positive trajectory of bilateral ties. Both nations' businesses and officials are urged to identify trade, investment, tourism, halal industry, and digital economy opportunities to translate good relations into tangible benefits. Additionally, climate resilience and sustainable development were addressed, considering the Maldives' unique challenges as a small developing island nation.

Anwar concluded his visit, marking his first since assuming office in November 2022, with a promise to continue working with Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to deepen bilateral ties.