Pak-Malaysia ties predate their independence

Islamabad: Dr Maszlee bin Malik, former Minister of Education, Malaysia, reflecting on the deep-rooted historical ties between Malaysia and Pakistan, particularly the strong people-to-people connections, has said that the relations between Pakistan and Malaysia that predate the establishment of both countries

Dr Maszlee was addressing here Pakistan-Malaysia think-tank dialogue held by Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) with its Malaysian counter-part International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) held in the wake of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s bilateral visit to Pakistan. The IAIS delegation was led by Dr Maszlee who is also Chairperson of the visiting institute.

Dr Maszlee emphasised the significance of cultural diplomacy and highlighted the importance of collaboration between think-tanks in addressing regional and global challenges, enhancing mutual understanding and advancing Malaysia-Pakistan relations, particularly in the fields of education, IT, AI and tourism. He expressed optimism for future cooperation, especially in ASEAN as Malaysia prepares to assume the chairpersonship in 2025.

The dialogue focused on Pakistan-Malaysia relations and Pakistan’s growing relations with ASEAN. The event culminated with the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ISS and IAIS, marking steady progress in their partnership aimed at reinforcing different aspects of Pakistan-Malaysia relations and fostering closer collaboration between the two think-tanks.

Sohail Mahmood, DG, ISS, expressed appreciation for the first in-person visit, which coincided with the historic visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Pakistan. He noted the exceptional cordiality of Pakistan-Malaysia relations and Malaysia’s steadfast support to the growth and expansion of Pakistan-ASEAN relationship.

Dr Talat Shabbir, Director, ISS, noted the establishment of “ASEAN Corner” in ISSI Library last year to raise awareness and support for partnership with ASEAN. Khalid Mahmood, Chairperson, BoG, ISS, highlighted the importance of strengthening Pakistan-Malaysia bilateral relations and advancing collaboration in key areas such as trade, diplomacy and enhancing cooperation on multilateral forums. The event concluded with the exchange of each other’s publications.