KUALA LUMPUR: The visit by South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa today is a symbol of the shared commitment between South Africa and Malaysia to champion global peace based on the principles of justice, humanity, and international solidarity.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to receive the South African president later today ahead of the 47th Asean Summit.
The Prime Minister’s senior press secretary, Tunku Nashrul Abaidah, said that during the bilateral talks, both leaders are expected to reaffirm their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause.
“Malaysia expresses its appreciation for South Africa’s leadership in bringing this humanitarian issue before the International Court of Justice (ICJ),” Tunku Nashrul said during the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) daily briefing today.
This marks Ramaphosa’s first official visit to Malaysia since assuming office in 2018.
Tunku Nashrul added that both leaders are expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in several areas, including trade, investment, the halal industry, defence, and science and innovation, particularly in biotechnology, digitalisation, and skills development.
“Malaysia also recognises South Africa as its largest trading partner on the African continent and aims to expand the export market for palm oil while encouraging greater private sector participation in the energy, agriculture, and high-value manufacturing sectors,” he said.
He said ties between Malaysia and South Africa will be further strengthened through Anwar‘s visit to South Africa next month, which will take place in conjunction with the G20 Summit in Johannesburg.
“The visit signifies Malaysia’s commitment to expanding cooperation with its strategic partners on the African continent and strengthening South–South networks,” he said.
It was reported that last year, South Africa ranked as Malaysia’s largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade amounting to RM7.82 billion (US$1.71 billion).
Malaysia’s exports to South Africa were valued at RM3.84 billion (US$0.84 billion), while imports stood at RM3.98 billion (US$0.87 billion).
Malaysia’s main exports to South Africa included palm oil and palm oil-based products, petroleum products, and electrical and electronic goods, while imports comprised metal manufactures, agricultural products such as fresh and dried fruits, and processed food.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
