KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is now regarded as a respected strategic partner, gaining recognition from leaders of major powers for its active role in championing global issues, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said the country’s role is especially recognised for its support for justice for Palestinians and its advocacy for a more just world order.
Anwar said his official visits abroad, as well as visits by world dignitaries to Malaysia this year, have strengthened diplomatic ties, propelled investments and enhanced the country’s global standing.
“By 2025, Malaysia is poised to lead Asean into a new era that is more inclusive and sustainable.
“With the international community’s strong support, we enter the new year with full confidence to drive shared prosperity,” he said in a Facebook post.
In the video uploaded with the post, the Prime Minister reflected on his official visits abroad in 2024, including destinations such as Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, China, Australia, Russia, Germany, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Uzbekistan, Japan, India, Peru and Brazil.
These visits generated a potential investment of RM115.2bil (US$25.2bil), with key investments from Germany (RM46bil), South Korea (RM32.8bil), Australia (RM24.5bil), Japan (RM1.45bil) and India (RM4.8bil).
Malaysia also welcomed 35 official visits and courtesy calls from foreign dignitaries, including representatives from Cambodia, Argentina, China, Kyrgyzstan, Egypt and Bahrain, Bernama reported.
In another post, the Prime Minister said immediate steps will be taken to stimulate growth, enhance the tourism sector and ensure the preservation of biodiversity in Langkawi.
Anwar said he will expedite various initiatives, including the establishment of a university branch, aimed at benefiting the local community.
He also held a meeting with the chief executive officer of the Langkawi Development Authority (Lada), which was attended by the district officer and the Langkawi district police chief, according to the post.
According to reports, Langkawi recorded 2.1 million tourist arrivals up to the third quarter, marking a positive growth trend for the island’s tourism sector.
Lada expressed confidence on achieving the three million tourist arrivals mark it had set for 2024.
