Malaysia, Cuba Strengthen Ties As Diplomatic Relations Turn 50

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 13 February (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Cuba have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation as both nations mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties established on Feb 6, 1975.  

Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan met with his Cuban counterpart Bruno Eduardo Rodriguez Parrilla on Thursday, where discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in trade, healthcare, education and tourism, said the Foreign Ministry in a statement.

The meeting underscored both countries’ mutual interest in deepening economic engagement and diversifying bilateral trade.

“Malaysia recognises Cuba as an important market for Malaysian rubber and palm oil products and sees potential for further collaboration in the food processing sector,” said the statement. 

The talks also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to human capacity-building through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), which has strengthened people-to-people ties and facilitated knowledge-sharing in key development areas. 

“Cuba’s participation in the MTCP continues to reflect the close cooperation between both nations. 

“In conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, Malaysia will offer a scholarship to a Cuban government official to pursue Master’s level studies in Malaysia,” added the statement.

The discussions further covered potential collaboration in biomedicine, with Malaysia expressing interest in Cuba’s expertise in the field. 

“Both sides discussed possibilities for joint research and capacity-building initiatives in biomedicine, recognising the sector’s growing importance,” it added.  

On the halal industry, Mohamad highlighted Malaysia’s globally recognised certification system regulated by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), and conveyed its readiness to assist Cuba in developing its halal sector. 

The ministry said Malaysia is prepared to share its experience and expertise to help Cuba identify key areas for cooperation.

With Malaysia assuming the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, Mohamad emphasised the importance of enhancing ASEAN-Cuba engagement and strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. 

“Malaysia looks forward to working closely with Cuba within the ASEAN framework and will continue exploring avenues for greater collaboration,” added the statement.  

Mohamad also expressed anticipation for deeper cooperation within BRICS to uplift socio-economic conditions in the Global South.  

Bruno is currently undertaking an official visit to Malaysia for four days from Feb 12, 2025, marking his first visit to Malaysia since assuming office on March 2, 2009.

Bruno’s inaugural visit to Malaysia also includes a courtesy call on Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.


As part of his engagements in Malaysia, Bruno will also meet Parliamentary Special Select Committee on International Relations and International Trade at the Parliament.

-- BERNAMA