Foreign relations of Malaysia

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Malaysia is an active member of various international organisations, including the Commonwealth of Nations, the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement. It has also in recent times been an active proponent of regional co-operation.

Map of countries with diplomatic missions of Malaysia shown in blue.

Foreign Policy 1957–1969

Malaysia has been a member of the Commonwealth since independence in 1957, when it entered into the Anglo-Malayan Defence Agreement (AMDA) with the United Kingdom whereby Britain guaranteed the defence of Malaya (and later Malaysia). The presence of British and other Commonwealth troops were crucial to Malaysia's security during the Malayan Emergency (1948–1960) and the Indonesian Confrontation (1962–1966), which was sparked by Malaya's merger with the British colonies of Singapore, Sarawak and North Borneo to form Malaysia in 1963.

The British defence guarantee ended following Britain's decision in 1967 to withdraw its forces east of Suez, and was replaced in 1971 with the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) by which Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and Singapore agreed to co-operate in the area of defence, and to "consult" in the event of external aggression or the threat of attack on Malaysia or Singapore. The FPDA continues to operate, and the Five Powers have a permanent Integrated Area Defence System based at RMAF Butterworth, and organise annual naval and air exercises.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman (up to 1970), Malaysia pursued a strongly pro-Commonwealth anti-communist foreign policy. Nonetheless, Malaysia was active in the opposition to apartheid that saw South Africa quit the Commonwealth in 1961, and was a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1967 and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) in 1969, with the Tunku as its first Secretary-General in 1971.

Foreign policy since 1969

Under Prime Minister Abdul Razak Hussein, Malaysia shifted its policy towards non-alignment and neutrality. Malaysia's foreign policy is officially based on the principle of neutrality and maintaining peaceful relations with all countries, regardless of their ideology or political system, and to further develop relations with other countries in the region.[1] In 1971, ASEAN issued its neutralist and anti-nuclear Zone of Peace, Freedom and Neutrality (ZOPFAN) Declaration. In the same year, Malaysia joined the Non-Aligned Movement. Consistent with this policy Malaysia established diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1974.

This policy shift was continued and strengthened by Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, who pursued a regionalist and pro-South policy with at times strident anti-Western rhetoric. He long sought to establish an East Asian Economic Group as an alternative to APEC, excluding Australia, New Zealand and the Americas, and during his premiership Malaysia signed up to an ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) and ASEAN+3, a regional forum with China, Japan and South Korea.

A strong tenet of Malaysia's policy is national sovereignty and the right of a country to control its domestic affairs.[2] Malaysia views regional co-operation as the cornerstone of its foreign policy. It attaches a high priority to the security and stability of Southeast Asia, and has tried to strengthen relations with other Islamic states.[3] Malaysia was a leading advocate of expanding ASEAN's membership to include Laos, Vietnam, and Burma, arguing that "constructive engagement" with these countries, especially Burma, will help bring political and economic changes. Malaysia is also a member of G-15 and G-77 economic groupings.

Despite Mahathir's frequently anti-Western rhetoric he worked closely with Western countries, and led a crackdown against Islamic fundamentalists after the 11 September attacks. The current Minister of Foreign Affairs is Dato' Seri Hishamuddin Hussein, who assumed office on 10 March 2020.[4] with Kamaruddin Jaafar was deputy minister.

Malaysia has never recognised Israel and has no diplomatic ties with it,[5] with the country ever condemning the Israelis action during their raid over a Gaza humanitarian mission and request the International Criminal Court to take any action against them.[6] Malaysia has stated it will only establish an official relations with Israel once a peace agreement with the State of Palestine been reached and called for both parties to find a quick resolution.[5][7][8] Malaysian peacekeeping forces have contributed to many UN peacekeeping missions, such as in Namibia, Cambodia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Somalia, East Timor and Lebanon.[9][10] On July 29, 2024, Malaysia officially applied to join the BRICS economic bloc and geopolitical organization.[11]

International affiliations

Malaysia is a founding member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (now the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation).[12][13] It is also a member of the Non-Aligned Movement.[14] Kuala Lumpur was the site of the first East Asia Summit in 2005,[3] and Malaysia has chaired ASEAN, the OIC, and the NAM in the past. A former British colony, it is also a member of the Commonwealth.[15]

Malaysia is affiliated with the United Nations and many of its specialised agencies, including UNESCO, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, International Atomic Energy Agency; General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. It is also a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, the Developing 8 Countries.[16][17][18] Asian Development Bank, Five-Power Defense Arrangement, G-77, and South Centre.[19] On 31 October 2011 Malaysia became a party to the Antarctic Treaty.[20]

International disputes

The policy towards territorial disputes by the Malaysian government is one of pragmatism, solving disputes in a number of ways, including some resolved in the International Court of Justice.

Spratly and other islands in the South China Sea

Main articles: Spratly Islands dispute and Territorial disputes in the South China Sea

Malaysia has asserted sovereignty over the Spratly Islands together with China, the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Brunei. Tensions have eased since 2002 "Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea". However, it is not the legally binding code of conduct sought by some parties.[21] Malaysia was not party to a March 2005 joint accord among the national oil companies of China, the Philippines and Vietnam on conducting marine seismic activities in the Spratly Islands.[22] Malaysia long maintained a low-key approach to the dispute, maintaining positive relations with China due to strong economic ties, a large ethnic Chinese population, and a desire for a balance of power in the region.[23][24] However, as Chinese fishing vessels and coast guard ships have become increasingly assertive,[25] Malaysia has increased its diplomatic and military responses.[23][26][27]

Ligitan, Sipadan and Ambalat

Main article: Ligitan and Sipadan dispute

The ICJ awarded Ligitan and Sipadan islands to Malaysia over Indonesia but left the maritime boundary in the hydrocarbon-rich Celebes Sea in dispute,[21][28] culminating in hostile confrontations in March 2005 over concessions to the Ambalat oil block.

Singapore

Singapore was a part of Malaysia for two years (1963–65), but it ultimately was asked by Tunku to secede after increased racial tensions due to the election campaigns in 1964. Today, disputes continue among other things, over the pricing of deliveries of raw untreated water to Singapore, Singapore's land reclamation causing a negative environmental impact in Malaysian waters, a new bridge to replace the Johor-Singapore Causeway which Singapore does not want to pay for, maritime boundaries,[21] the redevelopment of Malayan Railway lands in Singapore and Pedra Branca. Both parties however, agreed to ICJ arbitration on the island dispute. On 24 May 2008, the International Court of Justice ruled that Pedra Branca belonged to Singapore with the nearby Middle Rocks going to Malaysia.[21][28] Regarding railway land in Singapore, see also Malaysia-Singapore Points of Agreement of 1990. On introducing budget flights between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, the stumbling block appears to be Malaysia's sympathy towards flag carrier Malaysia Airlines, and preference for the existing near duopoly with Singapore Airlines.

The Philippines

Main article: North Borneo dispute

The Philippines has a dormant claim to eastern Sabah.[21][28]

Brunei

Malaysia's land boundary with Brunei around Limbang is no longer in dispute. On 16 March 2009, Brunei announced its decision to drop a long-standing claim to Sarawak's Limbang district.[29] This was the result of the two countries resolving their various land and sea territorial disputes.[30] This issue was resolved along with several other disputes with the sealing and signing of letters of exchange by Abdullah and the Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei at Istana Nurul Iman. As of 2010, the two countries are working towards resolving disputes over their maritime boundaries.[21]

Thailand

According to a source, the areas around Ko Kra and Ko Losin in present-day Thailand are once disputed with Malaysia.[31]

Diplomatic relations

List of countries which Malaysia maintains diplomatic relations with:

More information #, Country ...
# Country Date[32]
1 Australia 31 August 1957
2 Cambodia 31 August 1957
3 Canada 31 August 1957[33]
4 Denmark 31 August 1957
5 France 31 August 1957[34]
6 Germany 31 August 1957
7 India 31 August 1957[35]
8 Indonesia 31 August 1957[36]
9 Italy 31 August 1957[37]
10 Japan 31 August 1957
11 Netherlands 31 August 1957[38]
12 Pakistan 31 August 1957[39]
13 Thailand 31 August 1957
14 United Kingdom 31 August 1957
15 United States 31 August 1957[40]
16 New Zealand 25 September 1957
17 Sri Lanka October 1957[41]
18 Belgium 12 December 1957[42]
19 Luxembourg 1957
20 Saudi Arabia 1957
21 Tunisia 1957[43]
22 Myanmar 1 March 1958
23 Sweden 6 June 1958[44]
24 Syria 1958
25 Brazil 11 August 1959[45]
26 Egypt 10 November 1959[46]
27 Greece 16 November 1959
28   Nepal 1 January 1960[47]
29 South Korea 23 February 1960
30 Somalia 17 December 1960[48]
31 Cyprus 1961
32 Austria 6 August 1962
33  Switzerland 3 January 1963[49]
34 Lebanon 16 July 1963[50]
35 Morocco 1963[51]
36 Philippines 18 May 1964
37 Turkey 17 June 1964[52]
38 Algeria 26 November 1964
39 Nigeria 5 March 1965[53]
40 Sudan 26 March 1965[54]
41 Kuwait 28 March 1965[55]
42 Ethiopia April 1965[56]
43 Singapore 1 September 1965
44 Jordan 1965
45 Kenya 1965
46 Laos 1 July 1966
47 Ghana 29 March 1967[57]
48 Russia 3 April 1967
49 Serbia 4 May 1967[58]
50 Spain 12 May 1967
51 Argentina 7 June 1967[59]
52 Norway 8 March 1968[60]
53 Maldives September 1968[61]
54 Bulgaria 4 January 1969[62]
55 Romania 22 March 1969[63]
56 Hungary 29 December 1969[64]
57 Afghanistan 24 January 1970[65]
58 Iran 16 June 1970[66]
59 Poland 21 June 1971[67]
60 Mongolia 8 September 1971
61 Czech Republic 16 September 1971
62 Fiji 30 January 1972[68]
63 Bangladesh 11 September 1972[69]
64 Vietnam 30 March 1973
65 Iraq 6 April 1973[70]
66 Finland 16 June 1973[71]
— North Korea (suspended) 30 June 1973
67 Mexico 27 March 1974
68 Libya 22 April 1974[72][73]
69 China 31 May 1974
70 Qatar 26 June 1974[74]
71 Ireland 12 September 1974[75]
72 Bahrain 25 November 1974[76]
73 Cuba 6 February 1975
74 Malta 8 October 1975[77]
75 Jamaica 28 November 1975[78]
76 Portugal December 1975[79]
77 Guyana 26 April 1976
78 Trinidad and Tobago 11 June 1976[80]
79 Papua New Guinea 12 July 1976[81]
80 Senegal 1 April 1977[82]
81 Costa Rica 17 April 1977[83]
82 Bolivia 9 May 1977[83]
83 Chile 26 February 1979[84]
84 Albania 24 June 1981
85 Antigua and Barbuda 1981[85]
86 Gambia 1981[86]
87 Kiribati 15 March 1982[87]
88 Mali 21 August 1982[88]
89 Samoa August 1982
90 Tonga 9 September 1982[89]
91 Guinea 29 September 1982[89]
92 Tanzania 29 September 1982[89]
93 Oman 4 January 1983[90]
94 Solomon Islands 10 January 1983[91]
95 Tuvalu 5 April 1983[92]
96 Vanuatu 5 April 1983
97 United Arab Emirates 23 June 1983[93]
98 Brunei 1 January 1984
99 Yemen 7 April 1986[94]
100 Peru 24 April 1986
101 Mauritius 13 August 1986[95]
102 Venezuela 18 December 1986
103 Eswatini 31 March 1987[96]
104 Seychelles 1 May 1987[82]
105 Colombia 19 August 1987[82]
106 Zimbabwe 25 September 1987[97]
107 Uruguay 5 January 1988
108 Lesotho 31 March 1988[98]
109 Nauru 11 November 1988[99]
— State of Palestine 12 January 1989[100]
110 Paraguay 17 November 1989
111 Mozambique 1989
112 Zambia 26 February 1990[101]
113 Namibia 21 March 1990[102]
114 Botswana 26 November 1990[103]
115 Sierra Leone 26 January 1991[104]
116 Cameroon 1 March 1991[105]
117 Ivory Coast 7 May 1991[106]
118 Malawi 6 November 1991[107]
119 Estonia 11 February 1992[108]
120 Uzbekistan 21 February 1992
121 Ukraine 3 March 1992[109]
122 Belarus 5 March 1992[110]
123 Tajikistan 11 March 1992
124 Kazakhstan 26 March 1992
125 Kyrgyzstan 2 April 1992
126 Barbados 10 April 1992[111]
— Cook Islands 2 May 1992
127 Croatia 4 May 1992[112]
128 Slovenia 4 May 1992[113]
129 Turkmenistan 17 May 1992
130 Federated States of Micronesia 6 July 1992[114]
131 Saint Kitts and Nevis 30 July 1992[115]
132 Saint Lucia 9 October 1992[116]
133 Bosnia and Herzegovina 5 December 1992[117]
134 Slovakia 1 January 1993[118]
135 Marshall Islands 4 January 1993[119]
136 Guatemala 27 January 1993[120]
137 Nicaragua 17 February 1993[82]
138 Moldova 10 March 1993[121]
139 Armenia 11 March 1993[122]
140 Azerbaijan 5 April 1993[123]
141 Georgia 7 May 1993[124]
142 Latvia 12 June 1993[125]
143 Suriname 2 July 1993[126]
144 North Macedonia 22 July 1993[127]
145 Panama 24 July 1993[128]
146 South Africa 8 November 1993[129]
147 Lithuania 9 March 1994[130]
148 Ecuador 29 August 1994[131]
149 Burkina Faso 4 January 1995[132]
150 Benin 30 January 1995[133]
151 Madagascar 6 April 1995[82]
152 Cape Verde 19 January 1996[134]
— Niue 30 January 1996
153 Burundi 1996
154 Eritrea 2 December 1997[135]
155 Democratic Republic of the Congo 1997
156 Liberia 1997
157 El Salvador June 1998[136]
158 Djibouti 3 August 1998[137]
159 Uganda 8 December 1998[138]
160 Belize 11 February 2000[139]
161 Iceland 4 April 2000[140]
162 Central African Republic 2000
163 Comoros 2000
164 Guinea-Bissau 2000
165 Angola June 2001[141]
166 Equatorial Guinea November 2001[142]
167 Dominican Republic 2001
168 Bahamas 2001
169 Gabon 2001
170 Haiti 2001
171 Republic of the Congo 2001
172 Timor-Leste 20 May 2002
173 Mauritania 2003
174 San Marino 29 January 2004[143]
175 Liechtenstein July 2004
176 Rwanda 1 August 2005[144][145]
177 Palau 5 October 2005
178 Montenegro 17 August 2006[146]
179 Monaco 22 May 2007[147]
180 Togo 20 August 2008[148]
181 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 11 November 2008[149]
182 Grenada 3 February 2009[150]
— Kosovo 18 March 2011
— Holy See 27 July 2011
183 Niger 24 April 2012[145]
184 Honduras 7 August 2013[151]
185 Dominica 19 January 2015
186 São Tomé and Príncipe 9 April 2015[152]
187 South Sudan 20 March 2024[153]
188 Andorra 25 September 2024[154]
189 Chad 25 June 2025[155]
Close

Bilateral relations

ASEAN

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Brunei1 January 1984
Main article: Brunei–Malaysia relations
See also: Brunei–Malaysia border

Brunei has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, and consulates in Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Malaysia maintains a high commission in Bandar Seri Begawan. Both countries are full members of the Commonwealth of Nations. The states of Sarawak and Sabah in East Malaysia are connected to Brunei via the Pan Borneo Highway. Brunei has denounced its claims on Limbang and recognises Malaysia's full sovereignty. In 2003, Brunei and Malaysia ceased gas and oil exploration in their disputed offshore and deep water seabeds and negotiations have stalemated prompting consideration of international adjudication.

 Cambodia31 August 1957[156]
Main article: Cambodia–Malaysia relations

More than 24,000 Cambodians visited Malaysia since the first half of 2012, while Malaysian visited to Cambodia numbered 54,000.[157] In 2011, bilateral trade between the two countries worth over US$319.5 million and in 2010 Malaysia were consider as one of the biggest investors in the country with the total investments were U$2.19 billion while Malaysian investments in Cambodia during the past two years totalling U$118 million.[157][158]

 Indonesia31 August 1957,[159] severed diplomatic relations 15 September 1963, restored 31 August 1967
Main article: Indonesia–Malaysia relations
See also: Indonesia–Malaysia border
 Laos1 July 1966
Main article: Laos–Malaysia relations

During the collapse of the Communist bloc, the Soviet Union could no longer afford aid for the development of Laos.[160] This made Laos seek aid from other countries to help develop their country and has led the country to adopt a neutral foreign policy.[160] When this policy of neutrality was adopted, relations with Malaysia were established.[160]

 Myanmar1 March 1958
Main article: Malaysia–Myanmar relations

Myanmar has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[161]

Relations between the two countries were established on 1 March 1957 and the first Burmese mission at the legation level was set up in Kuala Lumpur in June 1959 and later raised to the embassy level.[161]

 PhilippinesOctober 1959, severed 16 September 1963, restored 18 May 1964, severed 29 November 1968, restored 16 December 1969
Main article: Malaysia–Philippines relations
See also: Malaysia–Philippines border
  • The Philippines has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Manila.
  • Despite religious differences (the former is mostly Muslim, while the latter is predominantly Roman Catholic). Malaysia and the Philippines share a one-of-a-kind relationship rooted on the basis of geography, ethnicity, and political aspirations.
  • Both countries are members of the Asian Union.
  • The countries are both involved in ongoing disputes over ownership of the Spratly Islands and the Philippines has a claim on the eastern Sabah in northern Borneo though this is currently not being actively pursued.
 Singapore1 September 1965
Main article: Malaysia–Singapore relations
See also: Malaysia–Singapore border

Singapore has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur and a Consulate in Johor Bahru, Malaysia and Malaysia has a High Commission in Singapore. Both countries are full members of the Commonwealth of Nations. See also Malaysia-Singapore border, Pedra Branca dispute

 Thailand31 August 1957
Main article: Malaysia–Thailand relations
See also: Malaysia–Thailand border

Thailand has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and consulates in George Town and Kota Bharu. Malaysia maintains an embassy in Bangkok. Recently, Thai-Malay relations have soured considerably due to the ethnically-Malay Pattani separatists in three southern provinces of Thailand.

 Vietnam30 March 1973
Main article: Malaysia–Vietnam relations
See also: Malaysia–Vietnam border
  • Vietnam has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Hanoi.
  • Malaysia forged diplomatic ties with the modern-day Vietnamese state in March 1973 which have lasted until today. Relations between two countries were frosty in the late 1970s and 1980s as a result of the Cambodian–Vietnamese War and the influx of Vietnamese boat people into Malaysia. The subsequent resolution of these issues in the late 1980s saw the cultivation of strong trade and economic ties, and bilateral trade between both countries grew exponentially in the 1990s. and later expanded to other areas of major co-operation including information technology, education and defence in the 2000s.
Close

East Asia

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 China31 May 1974
Main article: China–Malaysia relations

China has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and consulates in George Town, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching. Malaysia maintains an embassy in Beijing, and consulates in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi'an, Nanning and Guilin. Diplomatic relations were established in 1974.

Following the end of the Cold War, diplomatic foreign relations between China and Malaysia immediately turned positive. Although issues arose from China's activities in the South China Sea, the political and cultural connections between the two nations strengthened. Both countries are full members of APEC, and there is a sizeable population of Chinese in Malaysia.

 Hong Kong (Special Administrative Region of China)2 July 1971
Main article: Hong Kong–Malaysia relations

Hong Kong enjoys significant autonomy in economic, trade, financial and monetary matters.[162] Currently, Malaysia has a consulate general office in Wan Chai and the relations are mostly based on economic co-operation.[163]

 Japan31 August 1957[164]
Main article: Japan–Malaysia relations

Japan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and consulates in George Town and Kota Kinabalu. Malaysia maintains an embassy in Tokyo.

Bilateral economic trades between Malaysia and Japan have increased. In 2011, total trade between both countries was at MYR145.3 billion. Japan has increased its import of liquefied natural gas to about 34%. Before 2007, the bilateral rate between both countries were at a deficit. About 1,400 Japanese companies are operating in Malaysia creating more than 11,000 job opportunities. Halal certification endorsement by the Malaysian government has allowed Malaysian companies in the halal food industry to compete well in the Japanese market. The building of a halal park in Japan is also considered.[165]

 North Korea30 June 1973,[166] diplomatic relations was severed 19 March 2021
Main article: Malaysia–North Korea relations

North Korea maintained friendly diplomatic ties with Malaysia. In an effort to boost tourism between the two countries, North Korea announced that Malaysians will not require a visa to visit North Korea.[167] North Korea's flag carrier, Air Koryo has regular flights to Kuala Lumpur. Recently, Malaysia's Bernama News Agency reported that the two countries will enhance co-operation in information-related areas.[168] North Korea maintains an embassy in Kuala Lumpur while Malaysia has an embassy in Pyongyang.[169][170] After the assassination of Kim Jong-nam due to poisoning at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in February 2017 allegedly under the orders of the North Korean leader and his half-brother Kim Jong-un, relations between both countries steadily worsened, and as a response Malaysia gradually withdrew its ambassador from North Korea,[171] cancelled the visa-free entry for North Koreans for security reasons,[172] and decided to expel the North Korean ambassador.[173]

On 19 March 2021, North Korea severed diplomatic relations with Malaysia after the Kuala Lumpur High Court rejected North Korean businessman Mun Chol Myong's appeal against extradition to the United States on money laundering charges.[174][175] In response, the Malaysian Government defended the Malaysian judicial process and ordered the closure of the North Korean Embassy and expulsion of North Korean diplomats and their dependents.[176][177]

 South Korea23 February 1960
Main article: Malaysia–South Korea relations

The two countries established relations in 1960. South Korean president Lee Myung-bak was in Kuala Lumpur from 9–10 December 2010 for a two-day visit to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and South Korea.[178]

 Mongolia8 September 1971
Main article: Malaysia–Mongolia relations

Malaysia has an honorary consulate in Ulaanbaatar,[179] and Mongolia honorary consulate in Bangkok was accredited to Malaysia.[180] However, since 2006, Mongolia has not presented any ambassador to Malaysia for seven years due to the murder of a Mongolian citizen on the country, but later decided to appointing an ambassador in 2014.[181]

 Taiwanearly 1960s[182]
Main article: Malaysia–Taiwan relations

Economic and cultural relations are still maintained with Malaysia which has a trade centre office in Taipei,[183] and Taiwan has an economic and cultural centre in Kuala Lumpur.[184]

Close

Middle East

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
Bahrain25 November 1974Both countries established diplomatic relations on 25 November 1974[185]
Main article: Bahrain–Malaysia relations

Bahrain has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[186] and Malaysia has an embassy in Manama.[187]

 Egypt10 September 1957
Main article: Egypt–Malaysia relations
  • Egypt has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Cairo.
 Iran7 October 1966
Main article: Iran–Malaysia relations

Diplomatic relations between Iran and Malaysia are brotherly and cooperative, with Iran having its embassy in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia having its embassy in Tehran. The two countries are members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the D8.

The Economic trade between Iran and Malaysia is quite sturdy as well, amounting to US$1.43 billion as of 2008.[188] In 2010, ASEAN jointly with Iran opened a trade centre in Malaysia to promote trade ties between Iran and the regional countries.[189]

 Israel
None
Main article: Israel–Malaysia relations

Despite initial contact after the independence of Malaysia, no diplomatic relations were made. Malaysia consistently rejected relations with Israel as it tried to increase its relations with Arab states and shore up support for its conflict with Indonesia. Malaysia officially declared it did not recognise Israel in 1966. Relations ceased to exist until the 1990s, when limited economic ties were made, although diplomatic ties were explicitly rejected. Malaysia has stated it will open ties with Israel once a final solution been reach with the State of Palestine.[190]

 JordanJanuary 1966
Main article: Jordan–Malaysia relations

Jordan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[191] and Malaysia has an embassy in Amman.[192] Relations between the two countries are mainly in economic and Islamic affairs.

Kuwait28 March 1965Both countries established diplomatic relations on 28 March 1965[55]
Main article: Kuwait–Malaysia relations

Kuwait has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Kuwait City.[193] Relations are mainly in economic co-operation.

 Lebanon1965
Main article: Lebanon–Malaysia relations

Lebanon has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[194] and Malaysia has an embassy in Beirut.[195]

 Oman15 January 1982[196]
Main article: Malaysia–Oman relations

Oman and Malaysia signed an agreement for Oman to import frozen chicken from Malaysia, costing 120 million Malaysian ringgit. Oman imports most of its food, up to 80%.[197]

 Palestine
Main article: Malaysia–Palestine relations

Palestine has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[198] Malaysia is a supporter of the Palestinian bid for UN membership.[199]

 Qatar1974
Main article: Malaysia–Qatar relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Doha,[200] and Qatar has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[201]

 Saudi Arabia1957
Main article: Malaysia–Saudi Arabia relations

Saudi Arabia has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Riyadh. Relations, both diplomatic and economic, are quite close between the two Muslim-majority OIC members. Additionally, there is a sizeable population of Malaysian migrant workers in Saudi Arabia.

 Syria1958
Main article: Malaysia–Syria relations

Syria has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Damascus. Syria and Malaysia negotiated over a $30 billion worth of contracts over Malaysian companies building infrastructure in Syria.[202]

 Turkey17 June 1964[203]See Malaysia–Turkey relations
 United Arab Emirates1974
Main article: Malaysia–United Arab Emirates relations

United Arab Emirates has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Abu Dhabi.

 Yemen
Main article: Malaysia–Yemen relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Sanaa,[205] and Yemen has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[206]

Close

South Asia

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Bangladesh11 September 1972
Main article: Bangladesh–Malaysia relations
 India8 October 1957[209]
Main article: India–Malaysia relations
  • India has a high commission in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has a high commission in New Delhi.
  • Both countries are full members of the Commonwealth of Nations, and the Asian Union.
  • India and Malaysia are also connected by various cultural and historical ties that date back to antiquity.
  • The two countries are on excellently friendly terms with each other seeing as Malaysia is home to great number of Indians who have become naturalised.
  • Prime Minister Najib Razak made his official trip to India in January 2010.
  • Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh made a three-day official visit in November 2010.
 Maldives1968
Main article: Malaysia–Maldives relations

Malaysia's High Commission in Colombo is also accredited to the Maldives,[210] and Maldives has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.[211]

   Nepal1 January 1960
Main article: Malaysia–Nepal relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Kathmandu,[212] and Nepal has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[213] Both countries established diplomatic relations on 1 January 1960,[214] with bilateral relations between Malaysia and Nepal have developed from historic grounds.[215]

 Pakistan1957
Main article: Malaysia–Pakistan relations

Pakistan has its High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has its High Commission in Islamabad. Pakistan has strong brotherly relations with Malaysia. Both are members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Commonwealth of Nations.

There is a trade and cultural pact between the two countries, under which the import and export of various goods is done on fairly large scale. The President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan along with other high officials visited Malaysia many times and Malaysian officials also paid a good will visit to Pakistan. Both countries enjoy close relations and military links of mutual friendship and the co-operation has further strengthened.

Since the independence of Malaysia, Pakistan has supported the re-unification of Singapore, Pattani and Brunei as integral part of Kuala Lumpur's administration; it also considers the Riau Islands as part of the Malayan Federation since its independence in 1957.

Pakistan and Malaysia are linked by air transport. Pakistan International Airlines and Malaysia Airlines operate many weekly flights between Karachi and Kuala Lumpur. Both Malaysia and Pakistan were a part of the South east Asian version of NATO called SEATO also known as a 'mutual defence pact'.[citation needed]

 Sri LankaOctober 1957
Main article: Malaysia–Sri Lanka relations

Malaysia has a High Commission in Colombo,[216] and Sri Lanka has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.[217]

Diplomatic relations have been established since 1957. President Chandrika Kumaratunga made a state visit in 1997 and several memorandum of understanding (MoU) were signed during the meeting.[218]

Close

Other parts of Asia

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Azerbaijan5 April 1993
Main article: Azerbaijan–Malaysia relations
  • Azerbaijan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[219] and Malaysia has an embassy in Baku.[220]
  • Malaysia recognized the independence of the Republic of Azerbaijan on 31 December 1991 and on 5 April 1993 diplomatic relations were established.[221]
 East Timor20 May 2002
Main article: East Timor–Malaysia relations

East Timor has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[222] and Malaysia has an embassy in Dili.[223]

Since 1999, Malaysia has contributed to many UN peacekeeping missions on the country, such as one are the Operation Astute during the 2006 East Timorese crisis.[224] Malaysia also has provided assistance to East Timor in the area of human resources development through various training programmes and providing assistance to East Timor in its nation building efforts.[224]

 Kazakhstan16 March 1992
Main article: Kazakhstan–Malaysia relations

Kazakhstan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur while Malaysia has an embassy in Astana. Both are members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

 Kyrgyzstan26 March 1992
Main article: Kyrgyzstan–Malaysia relations
  • Kyrgyzstan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[225]
  • Malaysia embassy in Tashkent is also accredited to Kyrgyzstan.[226]
 Tajikistan11 March 1992
Main article: Malaysia–Tajikistan relations
  • Tajikistan embassy in Putrajaya is currently under construction.[227][228]
  • Both countries have been enjoying warm diplomatic relations since relations were established on 11 March 1992, and are willing to make constructive efforts towards progress.[229]
 Turkmenistan17 May 1992
Main article: Malaysia–Turkmenistan relations
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Ashgabat.[230]
  • Turkmenistan has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[231]
 Uzbekistan21 February 1992[232]
Main article: Malaysia–Uzbekistan relations
Close

Europe

See also: Malaysia–European Union relations
More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Albania23 June 1981
See also: Foreign relations of Albania
  • Albania had an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, but it has since closed.
 Armenia11 March 1993See Foreign relations of Armenia
  • Armenia is represented in Malaysia through its embassy in New Delhi (India).
  • Malaysia is represented in Armenia through its embassy in Moscow (Russia).
 Austria6 August 1962
Main article: Austria–Malaysia relations

Austria has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[233] and Malaysia has an embassy in Vienna.[234]

Malaysia is one of Austria's most important trading partners in Southeast Asia.[235] In 2003, Austrian exports to Malaysia, covering a wide range of products such as machinery and components, especially electrical machinery and parts thereof, paper, paperboard, telecommunication equipment and medical and pharmaceutical products, declined by 10.8% to 82.6 million. Malaysian imports to Austria, consisting mainly of one product group, namely electronic and electrical goods, especially semiconductors, reduced by half to 236.4 million. In Kuala Lumpur, the Austrian Trade office offers support to Austrian and Malaysian companies to assist them in forging new partnerships.

Austrian President Heinz Fischer made a state visit to Malaysia on 7–9 November 2010, visiting Kuala Lumpur and Malacca Town.

 Belarus5 March 1992
Main article: Belarus–Malaysia relations
 Belgium1957
Main article: Belgium–Malaysia relations

Belgium has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Brussels.

 Bosnia and Herzegovina5 December 1992
Main article: Bosnia and Herzegovina–Malaysia relations
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[237]
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Sarajevo.[237]
 Croatia4 May 1992
Main article: Croatia–Malaysia relations

Croatia has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[238] and Malaysia has an embassy in Zagreb.[239]

 Czech Republic16 September 1971 and 1 January 1993
Main article: Czech Republic–Malaysia relations
  • Czech Republic has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[240]
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Prague.[241]
  • Following the establishment of relations with the Soviet Union on 3 April 1967, Malaysia also expanded its relations with then Czechoslovakia (1971) and other Eastern European countries.[242]
 Denmark7 September 1958
Main article: Denmark–Malaysia relations

Denmark has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia is represented in Denmark, through its embassy in Stockholm, Sweden.[243][244]

 Estonia11 February 1992 and 4 November 1993See Foreign relations of Estonia
  • Estonia has an honorary consul in Kuala Lumpur.[245][246][247]
  • Malaysia embassy in Helsinki is accredited to Estonia.[248]
  • Malaysia has recognised the independence of Estonia on 11 September 1991 shortly after the dissolution of Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic on 20 August 1991.[248] While the relations between the two countries has been established since 4 November 1993.[248]
 European Union
Main article: Malaysia–European Union relations

The relations started with the 1980 European Commission–ASEAN Agreement and were developed since the formation of European Economic Community (EEC) in 1957.[249][250]

In 2011, Malaysia is the European Union second largest trading partner in Southeast Asia after Singapore and the 23rd largest trading partner for the European Union in the world,[250][251] while the European Union is Malaysia's 4th largest trading partner.[252]

 Finland17 November 1972
Main article: Finland–Malaysia relations
 France31 August 1957
Main article: France–Malaysia relations
  • France has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Paris.
 Georgia7 May 1993See Foreign relations of Georgia
  • Georgia is represented in Malaysia through its embassy in Beijing (China).
  • Malaysia is represented in Georgia through its embassy in Kyiv (Ukraine).
 Germany23 September 1957
Main article: Germany–Malaysia relations

Germany has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Berlin.

 Greece16 November 1959
Main article: Greece–Malaysia relations
  • The Greek embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, is also accredited to Malaysia. In the opposite way, the Malaysian embassy in Berlin is at the same time accredited to Greece. There is an Honorary Greek Consulate in Kuala Lumpur and there is a Malaysian honorary consulate in Athens.
  • Greece exports specialised machinery, non-ferrous metals, tobacco, metal goods, medical products, minerals and fruit, and imports industrial equipment, oil, footwear, paper, rubber, vehicles and telecommunications equipment from Malaysia.
 Holy See27 July 2011
Main article: Holy See–Malaysia relations
Hungary29 December 1969Both countries established diplomatic relations on 29 December 1969[256]
Main article: Hungary–Malaysia relations
 Italy1957
Main article: Italy–Malaysia relations
  • Italy has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[257]
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Rome.[258]
 Kosovo23 March 2011
Main article: Kosovo–Malaysia relations

Formal relations between the two countries first began in 2000, when Malaysia became the first Asian country to establish a liaison office in Kosovo.[259] Kosovo unilaterally declared its independence from Serbia on 17 February 2008 and Malaysia recognised it on 30 October 2008.[260] Since that time, Malaysia has pledged assistance to Kosovo in several areas.

 Latvia12 June 1993

Latvia doesn't have any embassy in Malaysia.[261] while Malaysian embassy in Helsinki is accredited to Latvia.[262][263]

 Lithuania9 March 1994
Main article: Lithuania–Malaysia relations

Lithuania has an honorary consulate in Kuala Lumpur,[264] while Malaysia embassy in Stockholm were also accredited to Lithuania.

 Netherlands31 August 1957
Main article: Malaysia–Netherlands relations

Netherlands has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in The Hague. The Dutch established relations with the Sultanate of Johor in the early 17th century, and in 1641 they captured the Portuguese colony of Malacca (on the south-western coast of today's Peninsular Malaysia). With a long interruption during the Napoleonic Wars, the Dutch Malacca era lasted until 1824.

In the 20th century, the Netherlands established diplomatic relations with Malaysia soon after the Asian state became independent. The erudite Dutch Sinologist and author Robert van Gulik (who was raised in the former Dutch East Indies himself) served as the ambassador of the Netherlands in Kuala Lumpur in the early 1960s. During his diplomatic service there he became closely acquainted with Malaysia's gibbons (he kept a few in his ambassadorial residence) and became sufficiently interested in this ape species to start the study of its role in ancient Chinese culture, the results of which he later published in his last book (Gibbon in China).[265]

 Norway8 March 1968
Main article: Malaysia–Norway relations
  • Malaysia has a consulate in Oslo, while Norway has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[266]
 Poland21 June 1971
Main article: Malaysia–Poland relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Warsaw,[267] and Poland has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur and a consulate in Kuching.[268][269]

 Romania22 March 1969
Main article: Malaysia–Romania relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Bucharest.[270] Romania has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[271]

 Russia3 April 1967[272] (as Soviet Union)
Main article: Malaysia–Russia relations

Russia has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[273] and Malaysia has an embassy in Moscow.[274]

 Serbia7 May 1967, severed diplomatic relations 12 August 1992, restored 23 January 2003See Foreign relations of Serbia

Entry to Malaysia was refused to all Serbian passport holders until 2007, unless they were in possession of a letter of approval from Malaysian Ministry of Home Affairs.[275] During the time, citizens of Serbia and Montenegro were banned from participating in Malaysia My Second Home program.[276] However, in August 2008, senior officials of Serbia and Malaysia held their first diplomatic meeting since 1991. Afterwards, Foreign Minister Vuk Jeremić said that establishing an embassy in Malaysia was a possibility, bilateral agreements between the two nations would be signed, and Malaysia has removed all visa restrictions for Serbian citizens. This meant that now only the citizens of Israel were banned from participating in Malaysia My Second Home program.[277] Currently, Malaysia has an embassy in Belgrade while Serbian embassy in Jakarta was also accredited to Malaysia.[278][279]

 Spain12 May 1967
Main article: Malaysia–Spain relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Madrid,[280] and Spain has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[281] Spain established a diplomatic relations with Malaysia on 12 May 1967 with both the Malaysian and Spanish embassy were opened in 1985.[282]

 Sweden1958
Main article: Malaysia–Sweden relations

Diplomatic relations were established in 1958.[283] Sweden has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has an embassy in Stockholm. As of 2009, 90 Swedish companies are present in Malaysia and about 450 Swedish citizens live in Malaysia.[284]

  Switzerland10 September 1963
Main article: Malaysia–Switzerland relations

Switzerland has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[285] and Malaysia has an embassy in Bern.[286] The diplomatic relations has been established since 1963.[287]

 Ukraine3 March 1992
Main article: Malaysia–Ukraine relations
  • Malaysia has an embassy in Kyiv.
  • Ukraine has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur and honorary consulate in Penang
 United Kingdom31 August 1957
Main article: Malaysia–United Kingdom relations
The Yang di-Pertuan Agong in a carriage with Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom on the state visit to London, 1974

Malaysia established diplomatic relations with the United Kingdom on 31 August 1957.

The UK governed the Malaysia from 1826 to 1942 and 1945 to 1957, when it achieved full independence.

Both countries share common membership of the Commonwealth, CPTPP, the Five Power Defence Arrangements, and the World Trade Organization. Bilaterally the two countries have a Double Taxation Agreement,[289] and an Investment Agreement.[290]

Close

Americas

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Argentina7 June 1967[291]
Main article: Argentina–Malaysia relations

Argentina has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[292] and Malaysia has an embassy in Buenos Aires.[293] Argentina established diplomatic relations with Malaysia on 7 June 1967.[291]

 Belize11 February 2000
 Brazil1959
Main article: Brazil–Malaysia relations
 Canada1957[297]
Main article: Canada–Malaysia relations

Canada has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has a High Commission in Ottawa. Both countries are full members of the Commonwealth of Nations. Canada's trade relationship with Malaysia includes commerce across several sectors.[298]

 Chile22 May 1979[299][300]
Main article: Chile–Malaysia relations

The Chile–Malaysia relations is mainly based on trade. In 2009, the total trade between Chile and Malaysia is $336 million with the total Malaysian export to Chile were $16.8 million while the import with $148.7 million.[301]

Colombia19 August 1987Both countries established diplomatic relations on 19 August 1987[302]
Main article: Colombia–Malaysia relations

Both are the members of United Nations, Movement of Non-Aligned Cooperation Forum Asia-Latin America (FEALAC) and Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC).

  • Colombia has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Malaysia is accredited to Colombia from its embassy in Lima, Peru.
 Cuba6 February 1975[303][304]
Main article: Cuba–Malaysia relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Havana, while Cuba has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

 Dominica19 January 2015
 Ecuador1989
Main article: Ecuador–Malaysia relations

Their relations covers on political, commercial, cultural and social activities.

 Grenada
 Guyana26 April 1976
 Jamaica28 November 1975
Further information: Jamaica–Malaysia relations

In 2006, Prime Minister, Portia Simpson Miller and Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, have expressed satisfaction with the progress of bilateral relations between the two countries and have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening these relations through the exchange of visits and co-operation in the economic, technological, shipping, health and educational sectors, among other areas.[308][309]

 Mexico27 March 1974[310]
Main article: Malaysia–Mexico relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Mexico City,[311] and Mexico has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[312] Relations between the two countries was established on 27 March 1974.[310]

 Peru24 April 1986[313]
Main article: Malaysia–Peru relations

Malaysia is one of the main destination for Peruvian exports with the total trade in 2012 records $235 million.[314] Peruvian exports to Malaysia total around $28 million while Malaysian exports with $207 million.[314] In 1995, an agreement on mutual promotion and protection of investments has been signed between the two countries.[315]

United States31 August 1957Both countries established diplomatic relations on 31 August 1957[316]
Main article: Malaysia–United States relations

Economic ties are robust. The United States is Malaysia's largest trading partner and Malaysia is the tenth-largest trading partner of the US Annual two-way trade amounts to $49 billion. The United States and Malaysia launched negotiations for a bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) in June 2006. President Barack Obama visited Malaysia between 26 and 28 April 2014, as part of his four-nation Asia tour. This visit was the first visit by a sitting US president in almost 50 years since President Lyndon Johnson in 1966. Other top US government officials have made visits to Malaysia in the past, such as then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in November 2010, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel in August 2013, and Secretary of State John Kerry in October 2013.

Malaysia has its embassy in Washington, DC with consulates in New York City, NY and Los Angeles, CA and a permanent mission to the United Nations in New York. The United States has its embassy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Venezuela18 December 1986Both countries established diplomatic relations on 18 December 1986[317]
Main article: Malaysia–Venezuela relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Caracas while Venezuela has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur. Both countries are full members of the Group of 77.

Close

Oceania

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Australia31 August 1957
Main article: Australia–Malaysia relations
 Fiji22 May 1972
Main article: Fiji–Malaysia relations
New Zealand25 September 1957Both countries established diplomatic relations on 25 September 1957[319]
Main article: Malaysia–New Zealand relations

New Zealand has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, and Malaysia has a High Commission in Wellington. Both countries are full members of the Commonwealth of Nations.

 Solomon Islands10 May 1983
Main article: Malaysia–Solomon Islands relations

Malaysia has an honorary consul in Solomon Islands while Malaysia's High Commission in Port Moresby also accredited to the country,[320] and Solomon Islands has a high commission in Kuala Lumpur.[321][322][323]

Close

Africa

More information Country, Formal relations began ...
Country Formal relations began Notes
 Algeria26 November 1964
Main article: Algeria–Malaysia relations

Algeria has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[324] and Malaysia has an embassy in Algiers.[325]

 Ethiopia1965
Main article: Ethiopia–Malaysia relations

Ethiopia has a consulate-general in Kuala Lumpur,[326] while Malaysia has no embassy in Ethiopia.

Malaysia is one of the major trade partner and also one of the largest investors in Ethiopia.[327][328][329]

 Ghana5 December 1966
Main article: Ghana–Malaysia relations

Ghana has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur,[330] and Malaysia has a High Commission in Accra.[331]

 Kenya1965
Main article: Kenya–Malaysia relations

Kenya has maintained a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur since in 1996. Malaysia opened a High Commission in Nairobi in 2005.[332]

 Libya9 November 1973
Main article: Libya–Malaysia relations

Libya has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur,[333] and Malaysia has an embassy in Tripoli.[334] Relations are mainly in economic co-operation.

 Malawi4 November 1991
Main article: Malawi–Malaysia relations

Malaysia together with Malawi are both significant tea producers, and co-operate in tri-national (with India) discussions of market conditions and promotion of the product globally.[335]

 Mauritius13 August 1986[336]
Main article: Malaysia–Mauritius relations

Mauritius has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, while Malaysia embassy in Harare, Zimbabwe also accredited to Mauritius. Both are members of Commonwealth of Nations. Cooperation between the two countries include cultural exchanges, trade in goods, financial assistance and capacity building in various sectors.

 Morocco1963
Main article: Malaysia–Morocco relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Rabat,[337] and Morocco has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[338]

 Namibia1990
Main article: Malaysia–Namibia relations

Malaysia has a High Commission in Windhoek,[339] and Namibia has a high commission in Kuala Lumpur.[340] Both countries were once part of the British Empire and before Namibia achieved its independence, Malaysia has contributed to some operations in Namibia by sending a group of soldiers to help monitor the Namibia elections and peace process.[341] Today, the relations are much more focused in economic co-operation.

 Nigeria5 March 1965
Main article: Malaysia–Nigeria relations

The High Commissioner of Nigeria, Bello Shehu Ringim, speaking with the Yang Dipertua Dewan Negara, Abu Zahar Ujang, expresses the concern of Nigerian students being fooled by Malaysian private-owned universities and social problems. The Nigerian government are serious about the problems by its citizens and the negative perception of its students. Malaysia is committed to Nigeria's concern and will give solutions to the problem.[342]

Senegal1 April 1977Both countries established diplomatic relations on 1 April 1977[343]
Main article: Malaysia–Senegal relations

Malaysia has an embassy in Dakar,[344] and Senegal has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.[345]

Seychelles1 May 1987Both countries established diplomatic relations on 1 May 1987[346]
Main article: Malaysia–Seychelles relations

Seychelles has a High Commission in Subang Jaya.[347]

Sierra Leone 28 January 1991 Both countries established diplomatic relations on 28 January 1991[104]
 South Africa8 November 1993
Main article: Malaysia–South Africa relations

Relations are good between Malaysia and South Africa, who view each other as close partners. Malaysia is the fourth largest new investor in South Africa, and the countries have exchanged High Commissioners.[348]

 Sudan1973[349]
Main article: Malaysia–Sudan relations

The stability of Sudan has enabled the country to take experiences from Malaysia in law legislation and investor-friendly policies, as claimed by Mahathir Mohammad, former prime minister of Malaysia who visits Khartoum in November 2012. At least seven Memorandum of Understandings have been made, related to Malaysian companies. The expected growth of bilateral trade between Malaysia and Sudan will have a big impact on the import of Sudanese beef.[350]

In October 2021, Sudanese–Malaysia relations were adversely affected by the Sudanese transitional government's seizure of Malaysian state owned enterprise Petronas' assets and arrest of the company's country manager. In response, the Malaysian Government urged Sudan to honour the Bilateral Investment and Protection Treaty while Petronas submitted an arbitration request at the World Bank's International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID).[351][352][353][354]

 Tanzania
Main article: Malaysia–Tanzania relations

Malaysia has a High Commission in Dar es Salaam, and Tanzania has a High Commission in Kuala Lumpur.[355]

 The Gambia
Main article: Malaysia–The Gambia relations

Malaysian embassy in Dakar is accredited to The Gambia, while the Gambian embassy in Abu Dhabi is accredited to Malaysia. The relations are friendly warm.[356]

 Tunisia29 November 1964
Main article: Malaysia–Tunisia relations

Several agreements were signed since 1969 covering a lot of sectors, including the agreement on suppression of visa and the agreement on economic and technical co-operation which signed in 1994. Several other drafts also are currently under negotiations.[357]

 Uganda1962
Main article: Malaysia–Uganda relations

Malaysia does not yet have a High Commission in Kampala,[358] while Uganda has a consulate in Kuala Lumpur and Uganda's High Commission in India were also accredited to Malaysia.[359][360]

Close

Malaysia and the Commonwealth of Nations

The Federation of Malaya became an independent native elective monarchy within the Commonwealth on 31 August 1957 with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as head of state.

Malaya united with North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore to form Malaysia on 16 September 1963.

Singapore was expelled from Malaysia on 9 August 1965, and became an independent republic in the Commonwealth of Nations.

See also

External links

  • Malaysia Ministry of Foreign Affairs Archived 25 May 2021 at the Wayback Machine
  • Schofield, Clive; Storey, Ian (2005). "Energy Security and Southeast Asia: The Impact on Maritime Boundary and Territorial Disputes". Harvard Asia Quarterly. 9 (1): 36–46. Archived from the original on 28 September 2007.
  • Francis Kok Wah Loh (2009). "Federation of Malaysia". In Hans Michelmann (ed.). Foreign Relations in Federal Countries. McGill-Queen's Press. ISBN 9780773576186.

References

Related Articles

Wikiwand AI