Malaysia and Saudi Arabia took a significant step in furthering their longstanding relationship by signing two crucial Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) at the Saudi Foreign Ministry’s central office in Riyadh on Tuesday, 11th December 2024. The MoUs, signed by Malaysia’s Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and key Saudi officials, aim to enhance cooperation across multiple areas, including visa facilitation and social development. These agreements reflect the deep-rooted partnership between the two nations, which has grown steadily since diplomatic relations were established in 1957.
Mutual Short Stay Visa Exemption
The first MoU, signed between Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, focuses on the Mutual Short Stay Visa Exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, and official passports.
This agreement simplifies travel arrangements for government officials, facilitating greater mobility and direct interaction between both countries’ administrations. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s recognition of Malaysia as a key partner in fostering international cooperation.
By enabling seamless travel for diplomatic personnel, the MoU is expected to promote more efficient communication and collaboration on bilateral, regional, and international issues of shared interest.
Social Development and Empowerment MoU
The second MoU, co-signed by Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan and Saudi Vice Minister of Human Resources and Social Development for Labour Dr. Abdullah Nasser Abuthnain, is centred on advancing social development. The agreement aims to bolster institutional collaboration between the two nations in areas such as family development, women’s empowerment, and child protection. It paves the way for the exchange of expertise and resources, creating opportunities for both countries to share scientific knowledge and best practices in social policy. This MoU aligns with both nations’ commitments to fostering inclusive growth and social progress, particularly by empowering women and safeguarding children through innovative programs and initiatives.
Broader Bilateral Cooperation
The signing ceremony was preceded by the inaugural meeting of the Saudi-Malaysian Coordination Council, co-chaired by Prince Faisal bin Farhan and Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan. The council is a strategic framework established to strengthen collaboration in areas such as politics, security, defense, energy, investment, education, culture, and tourism. During the meeting, both sides reviewed their historical ties and reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing coordination across various fields. They discussed the importance of establishing unified positions on regional and international issues, while also committing to advancing their shared interests through sustained cooperation.
The council chairpersons expressed satisfaction with the progress achieved in committee meetings, emphasizing the need for consistent follow-up on recommendations and initiatives. The establishment of the council’s General Secretariat is expected to ensure the effective implementation of these efforts.
Economic Significance
The strong economic relationship between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia serves as a cornerstone of their partnership. Malaysia is Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner within ASEAN and the seventh largest globally. In 2023, bilateral trade between the two nations reached RM50.52 billion (US$11.06 billion), with Saudi Arabia emerging as Malaysia’s largest trading partner in the Middle East. For the first eight months of 2024, trade volume stood at RM30.09 billion (US$6.43 billion), reflecting the steady growth of economic ties.
Strategic Outcomes and Future Plans
The MoUs mark a new chapter in Malaysia-Saudi relations, laying the foundation for deeper integration and collaboration in key areas. The initiatives under the agreements are expected to benefit both countries by enhancing diplomatic exchanges, empowering marginalized communities, and promoting sustainable development. The council chairpersons concluded the meeting by announcing plans for a second session of the Saudi-Malaysian Coordination Council, which will be scheduled through the General Secretariat at a mutually agreed time.
Prominent event attendees included high-ranking officials from both sides, such as Assistant Minister of Interior Dr. Hisham Al-Falih, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs Ambassador Dr. Saud Al-Sati, and Saudi Ambassador to Malaysia Mesaad Al-Sulaim. Representatives from committees on Islamic, cultural, and social cooperation also participated in the discussions. This strengthened partnership between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia reflects their shared vision of mutual growth, stability, and progress. Both nations are poised to benefit from these agreements, which reaffirm their commitment to working closely to achieve their respective national and regional aspirations.
