President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed high hopes that Maldivians living in Malaysia will receive additional conveniences and have their needs facilitated through his government.

President Muizzu made these remarks in a statement given before departing on an official visit to Malaysia at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday.

The Maldivian leader said that Malaysia and Maldives already have close relations, and he is confident that this visit would further strengthen those ties.

The president noted that Malaysia is currently the country with the highest number of Maldivians residing abroad, which is one reason why the Maldivian government is seeking to facilitate additional matters as part of the trip. He said efforts will be made towards these goals during the visit.

Highlighting the Business Forum organized by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade as part of the trip, President Muizzu indicated that it would open up extensive opportunities in terms of networking.

In addition to this, the president mentioned that official consultations between the two governments are scheduled as part of the visit, and important matters will be addressed. He emphasized that the close relationship between the two countries would contribute to making this a successful trip.

During the visit to Malaysia, President Muizzu said he will meet with Maldivians living there to understand the issues and challenges they face, and discuss with the Malaysian government about the needs of these citizens. He also expressed hope that arrangements will be made during the trip to provide Maldivian ID card and passport services in Malaysia. The president stated that efforts will be made to further improve consular services needed by Maldivian citizens living in Malaysia and enhance services required by students.

Understanding the situation of Maldivians living abroad and identifying their interests is a matter President Muizzu gives special attention to.

The aim of the Maldivian president’s first official visit to Malaysia is to further strengthen the long-standing close relationship between the two countries. Further, as part of the trip, Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) related to cooperation in important areas are scheduled to be signed in the presence of leaders from both countries, and note exchanges are also scheduled.

President Muizzu is accompanied by a delegation of his Cabinet of Ministers and senior government officials.