Malaysia (Commomwealth Union)_ Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent visits to Pakistan and Bangladesh have infused new energy into Malaysia’s diplomatic and trade relationships with these key South Asian nations. This series of engagements not only highlights Malaysia’s strategic role in the region but also emphasizes the importance of mutual cooperation across various sectors. Upon his arrival in Islamabad, Anwar was met with an enthusiastic reception. The Pakistani government underscored the significance of this visit, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif welcoming him at Nur Khan Air Base. Anwar’s three-day stay in Pakistan was marked by high-level discussions that reaffirmed the multifaceted relationship between Malaysia and Pakistan, rooted in historical ties and shared values.
Strengthening historical ties
The bonds between Malaysia and Pakistan extend beyond mere economic interactions. Anwar’s commitment to social justice and humanitarian causes resonated deeply, culminating in him being awarded the Nishan-e-Pakistan, the country’s highest civilian honor. This accolade, conferred by former President Asif Ali Zardari, underscores Malaysia’s supportive role in Islamic causes and its stance against Islamophobia. During a joint press conference, it was announced that Anwar’s book, “SCRIPT for a Better Malaysia: An Empowering Vision and Policy Framework for Action”, will be translated into Urdu, further enhancing cultural exchanges. The acronym SCRIPT, representing sustainability, care, compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity, and trust, reflects the guiding principles that can strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Economic opportunities ahead
Trade remains a critical pillar of Malaysia-Pakistan relations. Accordingly, discussions during Anwar’s visit touched upon various sectors including agriculture, defence, and education. Notably, Pakistan aims to boost its meat exports to Malaysia to USD 200 million annually and plans to export 100,000 tonnes of basmati rice. The current bilateral trade volume, standing at RM7.84 billion (approximately USD 1.4 billion) in 2023, is viewed as underwhelming given the substantial potential for economic collaboration. In a proactive move to foster trade relations, the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is set to open an office in Karachi, facilitating greater commercial ties. This step is expected to enhance engagement and trade facilitation, thereby capitalizing on the busy economic hub that Karachi represents.
Regional cooperation and security
Anwar’s discussions with Pakistani military leadership also focused on regional security and strategic cooperation. Pakistan’s geographical positioning as a bridge to West and Central Asia offers significant opportunities for energy and trade route influence, making it a pivotal player in regional geopolitics.
Advancing ties with Bangladesh
Following his engagements in Pakistan, Anwar traveled to Bangladesh for a brief but impactful visit. There, he met with Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, highlighting their longstanding rapport. Anwar’s role as Malaysia prepares to chair ASEAN in 2025 puts him in a strategic position to advocate for Bangladesh’s interests within the regional grouping. Yunus expressed Bangladesh’s desire to become a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN, a move that could strengthen its engagement in Southeast Asia. The two leaders discussed pressing issues, particularly the humanitarian crisis involving 1.2 million Rohingya refugees. Anwar assured Yunus of Malaysia’s continued support in addressing this urgent matter, emphasizing the need for a long-term solution.
Exploring new frontiers of cooperation
In addition to political and humanitarian discussions, the two nations explored collaborations in artificial intelligence, finance, health, agriculture, and energy. The leaders agreed to expedite negotiations for the next round of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) talks, which could further enhance economic ties. Anwar’s visit also opened avenues for educational exchanges, with increasing interest from Pakistani students to study in Malaysia. Similarly, the Malaysian government is keen on attracting Bangladeshi students, fostering a mutually beneficial educational partnership.
Malaysia’s diplomacy towards South Asia
Furthermore, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s diplomatic engagements in Pakistan and Bangladesh illustrate Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its trade relationships in South Asia. By fostering cooperation across various sectors and addressing shared challenges, Malaysia is positioning itself as a vital player in regional diplomacy. These efforts not only enhance economic opportunities but also solidify Malaysia’s role as a bridge between Southeast Asia and South Asia, paving the way for a more interconnected future.
