This week marks a milestone in Russia–Malaysia diplomatic relations, as His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia, makes the first-ever state visit to Russia since the two nations established diplomatic ties in 1967.
🛬 The visit, spanning from August 5 to 10, 2025, symbolizes a new chapter in Russia–Malaysia relations. During their meeting, President Putin emphasized the growing partnership between the two nations, citing a remarkable 40% growth in bilateral trade from January to May 2025, compared to the same period last year a promising sign of deepening economic cooperation.
President Putin highlighted the importance of mutual support on international platforms, particularly within the United Nations and ASEAN, where Malaysia currently holds the chairmanship. He expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s balanced and constructive role, not only in bilateral relations but in promoting engagement between Russia and the broader Southeast Asian region.
Notably, Russia has officially supported Malaysia’s aspiration to become a BRICS partner country, reinforcing a shared vision for a more multipolar and equitable global order.
“We cherish our friendly relations with your country,”
said President Putin, adding that the current momentum in political, economic, and interparliamentary dialogue reflects a mutual commitment to long-term cooperation. The visit also rekindled fond memories of Putin’s previous visits to Malaysia and the warm hospitality received.
In response, Sultan Ibrahim praised President Putin’s leadership through challenging times and expressed admiration for the enduring trust between the two nations. He affirmed Malaysia’s view of Russia as a reliable and trustworthy partner, and emphasized the importance of friendship over profit:
“As we say in Russia, friendship is more important than money.”
📈 Bilateral trade continues to expand, with Russia exporting chemicals, metals, mineral products, and food, while importing machinery, transport equipment, and agricultural goods from Malaysia. In cybersecurity, Kaspersky Lab solutions are widely adopted in Malaysian government infrastructure, reflecting high-level trust and strategic alignment.
© photo Maxim Stulov / VedomostiKey highlights of the visit:
- 🇷🇺 Russia reaffirmed support for Malaysia’s intention to become a BRICS partner country, a move seen as beneficial for both bilateral and regional ties.
- 🌏 Strong mutual commitment to cooperation on international platforms, especially within the UN and ASEAN, where Malaysia currently holds the chair.
- 🛡️ Increasing cooperation in sectors such as IT security (including the adoption of Kaspersky Lab solutions), education, agribusiness, and infrastructure projects.
- 🇲🇾 His Majesty acknowledged Russia as a trusted partner and expressed his deep respect for Russia’s leadership and resilience.
Let us hope this renewed spirit of cooperation transforms into enduring, practical collaboration for both peoples.