Staff Reporter
Karachi: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s official visit to Malaysia next month is set to mark a new chapter in bilateral relations, creating fresh economic opportunities and strengthening the strategic partnership, Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, said on Saturday. The envoy was speaking at a program organized by the English Speaking Union of Pakistan (ESUP) in Karachi.
The High Commissioner said the visit comes at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who shares a deep connection with Pakistan, having studied Allama Iqbal and knowing Karachi well. He noted the cultural closeness of both nations, pointing out that Pakistanis have left a vibrant mark in Malaysia, from restaurants like Pak Punjab and Quetta Hotel in Kuala Lumpur to a thriving diaspora community.
Currently, around 100,000 Pakistanis live in Malaysia, the largest diaspora community in Southeast Asia. The envoy appreciated their role in contributing to Malaysia’s economy while also sending valuable remittances back home. “They give their sweat, their blood, and their toils,” he remarked, adding his gratitude for their legal work and positive contributions.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Mazlan highlighted Malaysia’s aspiration to become a developed nation by 2040, with a focus on AI, FinTech, and Sharia-compliant banking, stressing the need for greater dialogue, engagement, and cooperation with Pakistan.
Recalling historical ties, he noted that Pakistan was one of the earliest countries to recognize Malaysia’s independence in 1957, and Pakistani Bunarians even fought alongside Malaysian soldiers in the pre-independence insurgency. He also reminded the audience that Justice Abdul Hamid of Pakistan helped draft Malaysia’s constitution, symbolizing the countries’ brotherly ties.
Since 2019, Malaysia and Pakistan have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership, encompassing trade, investment, and sectoral cooperation. Pakistan is Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner in South Asia, with trade volume reaching US$1.8 billion in 2024. Malaysian companies like Maybank, TNB, and telecom firms are active in Pakistan, while air connectivity remains strong through AirAsia, Batik Air, and PIA. Pakistan mainly exports basmati rice and beef, while Malaysia exports palm oil.
The event also featured remarks from Aziz Memon, Patron-in-Chief of ESUP, who said the Union plays a vital role in bridging nations through international debate competitions. Mr. Irfan Qureshi, Acting President of ESUP, welcomed the Malaysian envoy, reaffirming the strong cooperation between the two nations. Majyd Aziz, ESUP Secretary-General, and Mr. Herman Hardynata Ahmad, Consul General of Malaysia in Karachi, were also present.
The High Commissioner concluded that the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif to Malaysia will further cement strategic ties, enhance economic cooperation, and expand people-to-people exchanges.
