KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 – The future of Bahrain-Malaysia relations looks exceptionally promising, especially as both nations commemorate the 50th anniversary of their enduring diplomatic ties this year.
The two countries officially established diplomatic relations on Nov 25, 1974.
The relations were further elevated with the visit of the King of Bahrain, Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, to Malaysia in July, following an invitation from His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to attend His Majesty’s installation ceremony at Istana Negara.
“This significant visit, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, provides a unique opportunity not only to reflect on shared successes but also to chart a course towards a more prosperous future,” the ambassador of Bahrain to Malaysia, Dr Waleed Khalifa Al Manea, told Bernama in an interview.
According to Al Manea, the embassy of Bahrain has been actively promoting Bahrain’s lucrative investment opportunities to Malaysian investors, demonstrating ongoing commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and investment.
He said Malaysian investments have significantly contributed to Bahrain’s infrastructure development, with Malaysian companies playing instrumental roles in major projects, such as the Bahrain International Circuit, Bahrain City Centre Mall, and the expansion of the Sitra Causeway and Khalifa Bin Salman Port.
“Our trade relationship is flourishing. In 2023, non-oil trade between our nations reached US$263 million.
“Bahrain’s total import from Malaysia amounted to US$73 million, while total export reached US$190 million. We aim to further increase this in 2024,” he added.
