Historic Malaysia-Saudi ties boosted by King's visit

RIYADH: The state visit of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to Saudi Arabia, which concluded today, marks a new chapter of enduring friendship, mutual respect and shared commitment between the two nations.

This historic visit highlights the deep spiritual ties and growing cooperation between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, united by faith and a shared vision for peace, prosperity and regional development.

The visit also underscores both countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding collaboration across various sectors, including the economy, geopolitics, defence and Islamic affairs.

This was Sultan Ibrahim’s fifth state visit since ascending the throne, following previous visits to Singapore, China, Brunei and Russia.

During the four-day visit, Sultan Ibrahim was accorded a state welcoming ceremony at the Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh. He also held discussions with the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, exchanging views on a wide range of matters of mutual interest.

Sultan Ibrahim described the meeting at Al-Yamamah Palace as warm and cordial, noting that it covered several issues of significance to both nations.

“This was our first meeting, and Prince Mohammed is very well-informed on the matters we discussed. I also shared my perspectives, particularly on the importance of consistent policy implementation both within government and in international relations. Consistent policy brings stability to bilateral relations and instils confidence to attract investment,” he said.

During the visit, Sultan Ibrahim also toured the Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) and the headquarters of Arabian Oud in Riyadh.

The visit is particularly significant as it marks the first state visit by a Malaysian King to Saudi Arabia since the late Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah Ibni Almarhum Sultan Abu Bakar Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mu’adzam Shah in 1984.

In the first 10 months of this year alone, a total of 12 high-profile visits have taken place between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom is Malaysia’s 14th largest trading partner, with total trade valued at RM44.74 billion (US$9.79 billion).

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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