Maldives-Malaysia to strengthen cooperation in trade, digital sectors

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to arrive in the Maldives on Monday for a state visit, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade and digital sectors.

Prime Minister Anwar is visiting the Maldives at the invitation of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Official meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, after which the Malaysian Prime Minister is expected to depart the country later the same day.

Prime Minister Anwar is currently in neighbouring India, where he is attending the BRICS Summit.

According to Malaysian news outlets, the visit will focus primarily on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, education, healthcare, and digital integration.

During his visit, Prime Minister Anwar will hold official talks with President Muizzu, with the two leaders expected to exchange views on key regional and international developments.

The two sides are also expected to explore avenues for cooperation in capacity building, tourism, and sustainable development as part of efforts to further strengthen their longstanding bilateral relations. Malaysian news outlets have also reported that two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on defence cooperation and Islamic affairs will be exchanged in the presence of the two leaders.

Trade remains a key component of bilateral relations. In 2025, total trade between Malaysia and the Maldives amounted to 762.78 million Ringgit, with Malaysia recording a trade surplus of 751.67 million Ringgit. Statistics show that the Maldives is Malaysia's sixth-largest trading partner in South Asia and remains an important market for Malaysian exports.

Malaysia also continues to be a preferred destination for a significant number of Maldivians pursuing higher education.

Prime Minister Anwar's visit comes as both countries seek to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation, building on diplomatic relations established between the two nations in 1968.