Pakistani PM's Visit to Malaysia Set to Open New Chapter of Bilateral Relations, Malaysian Envoy

By: Aziz Khatri

  KARACHI – Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s upcoming visit to Malaysia is expected to open new economic opportunities and deepen bilateral ties, said Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ambassador Dato' Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, at an event by the English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP).

The visit comes at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who shares a strong cultural and historical connection with Pakistan, having studied Allama Iqbal and knowing Karachi well. Highlighting the vibrant Pakistani diaspora of nearly 100,000 in Malaysia—the largest in Southeast Asia—the envoy praised Pakistani workers for their legal contributions and remittances that aid Malaysia's economy.

Ambassador Mazlan outlined Malaysia’s vision to become a developed nation by 2040, focusing on AI, FinTech, and Sharia-compliant banking. He stressed the need for increased dialogue and cooperation between the two countries to realize these goals.

Reflecting on the shared history, he mentioned Pakistan was among the first to recognize Malaysia’s independence in 1957. He recounted the bravery of Bunarian fighters who sided with Malaysians during pre-independence struggles, even earning the honor of having a mosque named after them in West Malaysia. Pakistan also contributed to Malaysia’s constitutional drafting through Justice Abdul Hamid.

Since 2019, bilateral relations have been elevated to a strategic partnership, emphasizing development and sectoral cooperation. Pakistan is Malaysia’s third-largest South Asian trading partner, with trade reaching $1.8 billion last year. Malaysian companies such as Maybank and TNB operate in Pakistan, while strong air links via AirAsia, Batik Air, and PIA facilitate growing exchanges. Pakistan exports basmati rice and beef, while Malaysia exports palm oil to Pakistan.

The event was attended by ESUP Secretary-General Majyd Aziz, Malaysian Consul General Herman Hardynata Ahmad, and ESUP officials. Majyd Aziz highlighted ESUP’s role in fostering international dialogue and announced the upcoming International Council Meeting in Kuala Lumpur.

Irfan Qureshi, Acting President of ESUP, reiterated the strong bond and history of cooperation between Malaysia and Pakistan.