Maldives, Malaysia sign defence and Islamic affairs agreements to deepen bilateral ties

The Maldives and Malaysia have signed agreements to strengthen cooperation in defence and Islamic affairs, marking a significant step in efforts to expand the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

The agreements were signed today at the President’s Office during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s state visit to the Maldives, held at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The defence cooperation agreement was signed on behalf of the Maldives by Defence and National Security Minister Hassan Rashid, while Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Johari Abdul Ghani signed on behalf of Malaysia.

A separate agreement to strengthen cooperation in Islamic affairs was signed by Maldivian Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed and Minister Johari.

The agreements establish new areas for institutional cooperation between the two countries and come as the Maldives and Malaysia seek to give fresh momentum to their bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Anwar’s visit is the latest high-level engagement between the two countries and coincides with efforts to broaden cooperation beyond existing areas of partnership.

During official talks held as part of the visit, President Muizzu and Prime Minister Anwar discussed strengthening bilateral relations, expanding practical cooperation and coordinating more closely on matters of mutual interest in international forums.

The leaders also explored new avenues for cooperation across multiple sectors, including defence, education, healthcare, tourism, trade and investment.

The two sides have maintained diplomatic relations for 58 years, with Malaysia playing an important role in Maldivian human resource development, particularly through education and technical cooperation.

The visit comes as both countries look to build on existing cooperation while identifying new opportunities for economic and institutional partnerships.

The two leaders have also expressed a commitment to closer coordination on international issues, particularly through platforms such as the United Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and the Commonwealth.

The agreements signed today are therefore expected to provide an institutional basis for further practical cooperation and reinforce the broader relationship between the Maldives and Malaysia.