Bahrain-Malaysia Ties Reach New Heights As Nations Mark 50th Anniversary

By Noor Bakhtiar Ahmad

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 (Bernama) --  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 exclusive interview recently.

The newly appointed ambassador said both nations are channelling their efforts into cooperation across various fields, including strengthening diplomatic ties, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting student exchange programmes, exploring collaboration in education and healthcare, and nurturing stronger cultural connections.

"Building on our strong foundation, we are confident that Bahrain-Malaysia relations will continue to flourish, bringing mutual benefits to our people and contributing to the prosperity and stability of our region," he said.

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.

“Our commercial ties span a multitude of sectors, including Islamic Finance, fintech (financial technology), manufacturing, transportation, logistics, tourism, ICT (information and communication technology), and other key sectors."

Al Manea said these ventures have not only bolstered both countries' economies but have also generated employment opportunities, benefitting Bahraini and Malaysian citizens.

Reflecting on 50 years of diplomatic relations, Al Manea said Bahrain looks forward to organising a series of collaborative events across the political, economic and cultural spheres to commemorate the anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

"Additionally, we aim to facilitate mutual trade delegations within the year to bolster economic cooperation and explore new avenues for partnership," he said.

Al Manea said the embassy of Bahrain seeks to further strengthen the relationship between Bahrain and Malaysia through multiple avenues.

He said that building upon successful high-level visits and existing agreements, the focus extends beyond trade to encompass cultural exchange and people-to-people connections.

"Initiatives fostering tourism, educational exchanges, and cultural understanding have significantly contributed to this effort.

"For example, Malaysia is a popular tourist destination for Bahraini travellers, who have been captivated by the country's rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.

"Likewise, Bahraini students pursuing their education in Malaysia have fostered a deep appreciation for Malaysian culture and traditions while contributing to the academic landscape of both nations." 

He added that the Bahraini community residing in Malaysia serves as a cultural bridge, promoting understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries.

Al Manea presented his credentials to Sultan Ibrahim at Istana Negara on July 9, 2024.

-- BERNAMA