NAIROBI – Malaysia and Kenya have reaffirmed their longstanding friendship with the launch of a new strategic partnership during Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to Nairobi.
The two-day mission, held at the invitation of Kenyan President Dr William Samoei Ruto, marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations as both nations celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties.
Upon arrival, Prime Minister Anwar was welcomed with a red-carpet ceremony at State House, Nairobi. The visit included a state banquet hosted by President Ruto, attended by senior Kenyan officials and dignitaries.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of their countries’ six-decade relationship, noting that it has evolved from early diplomatic exchanges into a robust economic and developmental partnership.
During bilateral talks, Malaysia and Kenya agreed to elevate their cooperation to a strategic partnership, focusing on trade, investment, technology, and infrastructure.
The two governments signed agreements aimed at removing tariff and non-tariff barriers, opening new opportunities for Kenyan exports such as tea, coffee, flowers, avocados, titanium ores, and beef. In return, Malaysia will continue supplying edible oils, electronics, chemical products, and rubber.
The partnership also includes an air service agreement to improve connectivity between Kuala Lumpur and Nairobi, facilitating travel for traders, investors, and tourists.
Additionally, chambers of commerce from both countries signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen private sector collaboration and unlock new business opportunities.
President Ruto emphasised that the agreements would boost Kenya’s competitiveness in Asian markets, particularly in agriculture and technology.
He described the visit as a turning point, stating: “We greatly value the 60 years of friendship and cooperation we have enjoyed with Malaysia, ties that have been further strengthened by the State Visit of His Excellency Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.”
Prime Minister Anwar praised Kenya’s development agenda, including its Affordable Housing Programme, and expressed confidence in the country’s ambition to achieve first-world status.
He noted that Malaysia’s own journey as one of Asia’s “Tiger economies” could serve as a model for Kenya’s aspirations.
The visit also underscored Malaysia’s interest in supporting Kenya’s youth through technology training programmes, as well as exploring collaboration in energy transition and digital innovation.
Both leaders agreed that the partnership should be centred on the well-being of their citizens, with cooperation extending across multiple sectors.
This marks Anwar Ibrahim’s first official trip to Kenya since assuming office in 2022. The Malaysian delegation included senior ministers and business leaders, reflecting the emphasis on economic diplomacy under the MADANI Diplomacy mission.
The strengthened ties between Malaysia and Kenya are expected to pave the way for deeper collaboration, with both governments hopeful that the agreements will serve as a catalyst for shared prosperity and closer people-to-people connections.
