Malaysian PM encourages Maldives-Malaysia investments

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today encouraged mutual economic investment between Malaysia and the Maldives.

The prime minister's remarks were made during his keynote speech at the Malaysia-Maldives business forum, held in Kuala Lumpur on Monday.

"[...] In our discussions this morning and in the afternoon, we have stated very clearly, the need to move together in [a] new direction including digital, AI and where we can share part of our experience and the President and his team will share their experience. I think there is a spirit that giving meaning to bilateral relations in terms of trade and investment," Anwar Ibrahim said.

He went on to say that he encourages the Malaysian business community to explore the potential to invest in Maldives and to encourage some of Maldives' businesses to invest in Malaysia as well.

Referring to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's speech prior to him, Anwar said it was evident that Maldives "has embarked on a new journey," and that the current administration's leadership has shown "the determination to ensure that Maldives move up the ladder with clarity of policies."

"Investors, both Malaysia and elsewhere wanted that clarity. And not only that, it’s clear, but it is committed to a comprehensive development, a sustainable economy, environmentally friendly even in terms of tourism, which is ecotourism," the prime minister also said in his speech.

"I am here, Mr. President, to just honour you and listen to your ideas and also your serious commitment to encourage Malaysia to participate. But I think gives me, which is quite rare for me to be present in this sort of occasion. But you can see that there is a difference because I want this relationship to be strong, secure and based on task beyond this diplomatic relationship," Ibrahim said, highlighting the priority Malaysia places in nurturing its relationship with the island nation.

The event was attended by ministers as well as members of business communities from both countries.

Earlier in the day Maldives and Malaysia signed three Memoranda of Understanding and Exchanged Notes on key areas focussed on strengthening the existing multifaceted relationship between both countries.