Malaysia Considers Türkiye Key Partner, PM Anwar Ibrahim Tells Turkish Business Leaders

Istanbul, The Gulf Observer: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said on Thursday that Malaysia regards Türkiye as an important partner, citing the long-standing history of relations and the strong level of trust and confidence between the two countries.

Speaking at a roundtable meeting with Turkish business leaders in Istanbul, Anwar said it was rare to find such mutual understanding extending from leadership to government and the people of both nations. He highlighted the historical ties between Malaysia and Türkiye, including links dating back to the Ottoman Empire, noting that the two countries share a solid foundation for deeper cooperation.

“With this background, Türkiye and Malaysia are important bases for the region,” the prime minister said, adding that Türkiye’s growing regional role, partnership potential and capacity would further expand bilateral activities, business engagement and investments.

The roundtable meeting was organized by the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), and was attended by representatives of 46 Turkish companies.

Anwar highlighted Türkiye’s strengths in several sectors, particularly its defense industry, including drone technologies. He also emphasized Malaysia’s economic stability and its increasingly dynamic growth trajectory.

The prime minister called for stronger synergy between the two countries, with a focus on new and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and banking. He noted Malaysia’s strengths in energy, semiconductors, and the electrical and electronics sectors, identifying these areas as promising avenues for enhanced cooperation.

Trade between Malaysia and Türkiye from January to November 2025 reached approximately US$5 billion, reflecting the growing economic ties between the two countries.