Malaysia and Maldives Seek to Expand Cooperation in Floating Solar, Defence, and Digital Technology

Malaysia and the Maldives are aiming to broaden their bilateral cooperation into new areas, including floating solar, defence, and digital technology, according to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

During a meeting with Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at the Perdana Putra Complex today, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, highlighted the immense potential for collaboration between the two maritime nations. He emphasized that the partnership continues to grow across various sectors, based on mutual benefits.

“We already collaborate in education, tourism, sports, and health. Now, we are focusing on new areas such as floating solar, defence, and digital technology,” said Anwar during a joint press conference. The meeting was part of President Muizzu’s four-day official visit to Malaysia, which began yesterday. This is Muizzu’s first visit to Malaysia since assuming the presidency in November 2023, at Anwar’s invitation.

On the topic of education, Anwar noted that Malaysia’s cooperation with the Maldives, which includes the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), is expanding to include Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

“Our collaboration in education is now broadening to encompass STEM, TVET, higher education, and university exchanges, along with sports and health initiatives,” Anwar added. “We also exchanged notes today on training diplomats and conducting bilateral consultations.”

Anwar also expressed Malaysia’s strong support for President Muizzu’s environmental agenda, as the Maldives continues to advocate for greater international attention to environmental protection. “We are with him on this, and we follow with great interest and support the strong message voiced by the President,” Anwar said.

At the conclusion of the series of meetings, Anwar expressed his satisfaction with the productive discussions and the significant number of ministers involved in bilateral talks.