Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Conferred Kosovo’s Highest Civilian Honour
Petaling Jaya, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was today awarded the Order of Independence, Kosovo’s highest civilian honour, by President Dr Vjosa Osmani Sadriu in recognition of Malaysia’s longstanding support for the republic’s independence and state-building efforts.
The honour was conferred during a joint press conference in Pristina, where President Osmani hailed Malaysia’s consistent role in supporting Kosovo’s sovereignty, especially during crucial moments in its history.
“This is also for your (Anwar’s) personal unwavering dedication to further fostering our bilateral relations. Thank you and terima kasih on behalf of the people of Kosovo,” said Osmani.
The Order of Independence is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to Kosovo’s national cause. Previous recipients include Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (2014); George W. Bush, former President of the United States (2018); Micheline Calmy-Rey, former President of Switzerland (2022); and Anne Marie Lizin, former President of the Belgian Senate (posthumously in 2024).
In a historic gesture, President Osmani also announced that the late Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi would be posthumously conferred the Order of Independence for his leadership during a pivotal period. Under his tenure, Malaysia became one of the earliest nations to recognise Kosovo’s independence on October 30, 2008. Formal diplomatic relations were later established on March 18, 2011.
The Prime Minister’s Office of Malaysia noted that the conferment reflects Malaysia’s unwavering support for Kosovo’s statehood and Anwar’s steadfast commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Bilateral trade between the two countries reached RM28.55 million (US$6.0 million) in 2024. Malaysia exported RM25.92 million (US$5.5 million) worth of goods, including palm oil, electrical and electronic products, and manufactured items. Imports from Kosovo, valued at RM2.63 million (US$550,000), mainly consisted of raw materials and semi-precious stones.
The ceremony underscored the deepening diplomatic and economic partnership between Malaysia and Kosovo, built on shared values and mutual respect.
