Malaysia and Maldives to deepen cooperation in trade, tourism, education, and climate action

Among the opportunities discussed was the possibility of easing visa rules to create more opportunities for students to study in the respective countries.

Malaysia and the Maldives have agreed to step up cooperation across key areas including trade, tourism, education, and climate action. This came following a bilateral meeting between Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Dr Mohamed Muizzu, President of Maldives in Kuala Lumpur on 28 April 2025, as part of the President’s first official visit to Malaysia since assuming office.

Building stronger ties through regular engagement

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a long-standing partnership that began in 1968 and agreed to hold regular discussions on regional and international issues including through platforms such as the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

They also agreed to improve coordination at multiple levels of government to ensure better alignment on shared priorities.

Boosting trade, tourism, and investment

With both economies continuing to grow, the leaders expressed confidence in boosting trade and investment. President Muizzu invited Malaysian investors to explore business opportunities in the Maldives, while both sides agreed to strengthen tourism ties including efforts linked to Muslim-friendly tourism and halal tourism.

Prime Minister Anwar also offered to share Malaysia’s experience in developing the halal industry, given rising global demand for halal-certified products and services.

Supporting education and cultural exchange

Recognising the growing number of Maldivians coming to Malaysia for study and healthcare, both leaders agreed to improve support for students and enhance cooperation between higher education institutions. They discussed easing visa rules to create more opportunities for students to study in the respective countries.

The leaders also committed to boosting cultural ties through exchange of literatures, experts, performing arts, cultural training and education, and other related activities to promote greater public awareness on the culture and history of both countries.

Collaborating on climate and global challenges

Both countries emphasised the urgent need for stronger action on climate change particularly to protect small island nations like the Maldives. They called for greater access to climate finance for developing countries and advocate to work together ahead of the COP30 summit in Brazil later this year.

The leaders also discussed shared global concerns including conflicts affecting Muslims across the world and the humanitarian crisis in Myanmar, and reaffirmed their commitment to peace, solidarity, and condemnation for terrorism.

Signing new agreements for long-term cooperation

The visit saw the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering tourism, health, and sports. These formal agreements are expected to create more structured collaboration between the two countries in the years ahead.

President Muizzu thanked Prime Minister Anwar and Malaysians for their warm hospitality and extended an invitation for a future visit to the Maldives, further emphasising a strong and growing friendship.

Lead image / Prime Minister of Malaysia Anwar Ibrahim's Facebook post