Malaysia’s PM Anwar To Undertake Official Visit To Bangladesh

DHAKA, Oct 3 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will undertake an official visit to the People’s Republic of Bangladesh tomorrow, following an invitation from Chief Advisor of the Interim Government, Dr Muhammad Yunus.

In a statement Thursday, Malaysia's Foreign Ministry, known as Wisma Putra, said the prime minister is scheduled to engage in a bilateral meeting with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus to discuss and strengthen diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Bangladesh, fostering ties of friendship between the nations.

“The Prime Minister is also expected to pay a courtesy call on President Mohammed Shahabuddin before departing for Kuala Lumpur later that evening,” the ministry said. 

Anwar will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Mohamad Hassan, International Trade and Industry Minister Tengku  Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Transport Deputy Minister Hasbi Habibollah and Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan.

As of the end of 2023, Malaysia is home to 6,288 Bangladeshi students pursuing various disciplines in Malaysia’s higher education institutions.

Bangladesh workers have also contributed significantly to Malaysia’s economic development throughout the years.

In 2023, Bangladesh was Malaysia’s 27th largest trading partner, 19th largest export destination and 47th largest source of imports, making it Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner among South Asian countries.

Last year, the total trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh reached RM12.7 billion (USD2.78 billion), reflecting a 35.5 per cent decrease from RM19.69 billion (USD4.46 billion) in 2022. 

However, trade expanded in the first half of this year, showing an 18.1 per cent increase to RM8.27 billion (USD1.75 billion) compared to the same period last year. 

The trade balance, which favours Malaysia, saw a significant rise during this period, reaching RM6.65 billion (USD1.39 billion).

Currently, the prime minister is in Pakistan for a three-day state visit.

-- BERNAMA