Malaysia and the Maldives have pledged to deepen bilateral ties, with tourism, trade, and halal industry collaboration taking center stage during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s inaugural official visit to Putrajaya. The four-day diplomatic engagement, hosted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, highlighted mutual commitments to expanding economic cooperation while exploring emerging sectors like renewable energy and digital innovation.
Central to the discussions was the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign, which aims to boost tourist exchanges, particularly in Muslim-friendly travel. Both leaders emphasized the untapped potential in halal tourism, with Malaysia offering its expertise in halal certification and market development. President Muizzu reciprocated by inviting Malaysian investors to explore opportunities in the Maldives’ burgeoning sectors, from infrastructure to sustainable technologies.
Beyond economics, the nations agreed to strengthen cultural and educational ties through exchanges in literature, performing arts, and STEM-focused training programs. Malaysia’s Technical Cooperation Programme will now include vocational education, reflecting a shared vision for human capital development. President Muizzu acknowledged Malaysia’s role as a preferred destination for Maldivians seeking education and healthcare, underscoring the people-centric nature of the partnership.
The visit culminated in the signing of three memoranda of understanding and two Exchanges of Notes, spanning sectors like floating solar technology and defense. Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the natural synergy between the two maritime nations, noting existing collaborations in health and sports while identifying new frontiers for cooperation. With bilateral trade growing by 4.3% to RM862.7 million in 2024, the leaders expressed confidence in further elevating the 56-year diplomatic relationship into a multifaceted strategic alliance.