KUCHING – His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, was accorded a warm and respectful welcome by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a special visit to the iconic Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg on January 26. The meeting marked another important chapter in Malaysia–Russia relations and reflected the strong mutual respect between the two leaders.
Sultan Ibrahim’s arrival at the Hermitage Museum, one of the most prestigious museums in the world, highlighted the high regard the Russian Federation holds for Malaysia’s Royal Institution. President Putin personally received His Majesty at the historic venue, underlining the friendly ties that have developed between both nations over the years. The setting itself carried deep symbolism, as the Hermitage is not only a cultural landmark but also a representation of Russia’s long history and global influence.
Established in 1755, the Hermitage Museum is among the oldest and largest museums in the world. It houses more than three million works of art and artefacts, including masterpieces from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. During the visit, Sultan Ibrahim agreed to spend time with President Putin touring selected galleries, where both leaders viewed historic collections and internationally recognised artworks. The informal interaction allowed for meaningful exchanges in a setting that reflects shared appreciation for culture, history, and heritage.
This visit to Saint Petersburg was Sultan Ibrahim’s maiden special visit to the city, made at the personal invitation of President Putin. It symbolised the important role played by Malaysia’s monarchy in supporting and strengthening the country’s diplomatic efforts on the global stage. The Royal Malaysian Institution continues to serve as a key pillar of national diplomacy, complementing government-to-government relations through high-level engagements.
The meeting also built upon earlier milestones in Malaysia–Russia relations. In August last year, Sultan Ibrahim travelled to Moscow for a State Visit, making history as the first Malaysian Head of State to do so since diplomatic relations were established between Malaysia and the Russian Federation in 1967. During that visit, His Majesty also travelled to Kazan in the Republic of Tatarstan, further expanding Malaysia’s diplomatic outreach within the Russian Federation.
In conclusion, Sultan Ibrahim’s meeting with President Putin at the Hermitage Museum was more than a ceremonial occasion. It reaffirmed long-standing bilateral ties, highlighted mutual respect between both leaders, and reinforced Malaysia’s commitment to active and dignified international engagement. Such royal diplomacy continues to play a meaningful role in strengthening Malaysia’s position on the world stage.
