In a recent bilateral visit in Kuala Lumpur on April 28, 2025, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu exchanged views on deepening cooperation in priority areas like trade, tourism, education, and climate action. The meeting was President Muizzu's first official visit to Malaysia after assuming office.
Deepening Relations Through Continuous Interaction
Both leaders reiterated their pledge to a long-standing relationship that has existed since 1968 and committed to having frequent discussions on regional and global matters through forums such as the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. They also underscored the need to enhance coordination at different levels of government to harmonize on common priorities.
Strengthening Trade, Tourism, and Investment
As both economies grew, the leaders were optimistic about enhanced trade and investment. President Muizzu invited Malaysian investors to venture into business in the Maldives, while both sides committed to enhancing tourism cooperation, especially in Muslim-friendly and halal tourism areas. Prime Minister Anwar proposed sharing Malaysia's experience in developing the halal sector, as there was increasing global demand for halal-certified products and services.
Supporting Education and Cultural Exchange
Acknowledging the growing numbers of Maldivians seeking education and healthcare in Malaysia, both leaders decided to promote support for students and collaboration between higher education institutions. They considered relaxing visa restrictions to provide more opportunities for students to study in one another's nations. Moreover, they agreed to enhance cultural links through the exchange of literature, experts, performing arts, cultural training, and other activities to promote increased public understanding of each nation's culture and history.
Working together on Climate and Global Issues
Both countries emphasized the need for more decisive action on climate change, specifically to save small island states such as the Maldives. They demanded greater climate finance access in developing nations and issued a statement of intent to work together prior to COP30 in Brazil later this year. The leaders also touched on common concerns across the world, such as conflicts that involve Muslims globally and the humanitarian disaster in Myanmar, reasserting their commitment to peace, fraternity, and a firm approach to terror.
Inking New Deals for Extended Cooperation
The visit saw a number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed on tourism, health, and sports. The agreements are anticipated to ensure more organized cooperation between the two nations in the future. President Muizzu thanked Prime Minister Anwar and the people of Malaysia for the hospitality and extended an invitation to a future visit to the Maldives, which underscored the robust and expanding friendship between the two nations.
