ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has urged Ethiopian-Malaysian investors and industry leaders to pursue bolder and more meaningful cooperation, emphasising that economic ties must be built on trust, empathy, and shared values rather than solely on contracts and figures.
Speaking at a business forum in Addis Ababa, Anwar highlighted Ethiopia’s extraordinary history and spirit, drawing parallels between the country’s legacy of compassion and Malaysia’s vision for inclusive partnerships.
He recalled the earliest migration of Muslims from Mecca to Ethiopia, where King Najashi welcomed them with humanity and love, protecting them from persecution. “Ethiopia proved to the world that the true strength of a country is not only in power, but in the ability to protect and honour people,” Anwar said.
The Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia’s engagement with Africa is guided by the same principles of fairness and inclusivity.
He outlined opportunities for collaboration in green investment, digital technology, modern agriculture, renewable energy, and access to ASEAN’s dynamic markets, positioning Malaysia as a gateway for African partners to expand their reach in Asia.
Anwar described the meeting as a catalyst for a new chapter in bilateral relations, one that is “centred on humanity, empowered through innovation, and ultimately promises benefits for the people of both friendly countries.”
The forum brought together Ethiopian and Malaysian investors, industry leaders, and policymakers, reflecting growing interest in strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Ethiopia, one of the fastest-growing economies in the Horn of Africa, has been actively seeking partnerships in technology, agriculture, and renewable energy, while Malaysia continues to diversify its international relations under the MADANI Diplomacy framework.
Observers note that Anwar’s remarks underscore Malaysia’s broader strategy of combining economic cooperation with cultural and historical narratives, reinforcing trust and long-term partnership.
The emphasis on sustainable and inclusive growth aligns with both countries’ aspirations to build resilient economies in an era of global uncertainty.
