Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Keralam Chief Minister VD Satheesan discussed opportunities to enhance economic cooperation and deepen trade and investment ties between Malaysia and the southern Indian state during a meeting in Calicut. The engagement coincided with Anwar’s working visit to India, marking his first visit to Keralam as Prime Minister.
Key areas identified for potential collaboration included the digital economy, healthcare, tourism, education, and other high-value sectors. Both leaders also emphasized the importance of expanding tourism, business ventures, and people-to-people exchanges as part of broader efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. Anwar extended an invitation to Satheesan to visit Malaysia, aiming to further reinforce cooperation and diplomatic exchanges.
The meeting was part of the Prime Minister’s itinerary, which also involved dialogues with Keralam’s business community and other influential stakeholders. Anwar was accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan.
In a press conference with Malaysian media during the visit, Anwar addressed Malaysia’s participation in the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, clarifying that the country’s involvement was not intended to challenge any existing international blocs. Instead, he stated Malaysia seeks to advocate for a fairer and more equitable global system and international rules. He pointed out that Malaysia continues to maintain constructive relationships with partners such as the United States, the European Union, and Australia, emphasizing that engagement with multilateral groups like BRICS or ASEAN is complementary rather than oppositional.
Regarding Malaysia’s aspirations for full membership in BRICS, Anwar noted that there is currently a moratorium on expansion. However, he highlighted Malaysia’s status as a BRICS partner country since January 1, 2025, which grants the nation access to nearly all group activities and working mechanisms. The Prime Minister acknowledged the support Malaysia has received as a partner country and expressed the government’s determination to leverage these opportunities to bolster economic and trade cooperation.
This diplomatic outreach reflects Malaysia’s broader strategy to foster diversified partnerships and reinforce its role in regional and global economic frameworks while remaining engaged with traditional allies.