President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a three-day official visit to Malaysia, aimed at strengthening political, economic and diplomatic relations between South Africa and one of Southeast Asia’s most developed economies.
Ramaphosa, who attended the 47th Asean Summit and related meetings in Kuala Lumpur, visited the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim.
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It was his first visit to Malaysia since assuming office in 2018.
Speaking after bilateral talks at the Perdana Putra complex, Ramaphosa described the visit as marking a “renewed chapter” in South Africa’s engagement with Asia.
South Africa regards Malaysia not just as a trading partner, but as a strategic ally in advancing the aspirations of the Global South. Our two nations share a common history of solidarity, and we now seek to translate that friendship into tangible economic co-operation.
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The two leaders agreed to deepen collaboration in trade, investment, green energy, agriculture, science and technology, and education. Agreements also include expanding halal industry partnerships and exchanging expertise in renewable energy and industrial manufacturing.
Trade in green hydrogen, electric vehicle production and mineral beneficiation will also be explored.
Prime Minister Anwar described Ramaphosa’s visit as “a reaffirmation of the strong and enduring friendship” between the two nations.
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Malaysia welcomes President Ramaphosa’s commitment to broaden co-operation with Asean. We see South Africa as a gateway to Africa and look forward to building new bridges in investment, innovation and sustainable development.
Biggest Southeast Asian trading partner
Malaysia is South Africa’s largest trading partner in Southeast Asia, with total bilateral trade reaching $1,7 billion in 2024.
During the visit, Ramaphosa also addressed the Asean – Africa Dialogue, calling for “a rebalanced global order based on fairness, mutual respect and shared prosperity.”
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South Africa, he said, remains committed to multilateralism.
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