Royal Visit: Malaysian King and Queen to Strengthen Ties with Brunei
His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim’s Inaugural State Visit
- His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia, are set to embark on a state visit to Brunei from Sunday to Tuesday.
- This marks His Majesty’s first state visit to Brunei since ascending the throne earlier this year on Jan 31.
- The visit aims to further strengthen the close and special relationship between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam, emphasizing the shared Malay sultanate institution, religion, culture, and family ties.
- The state visit coincides with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam.
Important Delegations and Engagements
- Their Majesties will be accompanied by notable figures such as Tunku Temenggong of Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, and Foreign Affairs Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin.
- The visit includes a state welcoming ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman, an audience with His Majesty Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha, and a state banquet hosted by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in honor of Their Majesties.
- Sultan Ibrahim and Raja Zarith Sofiah will also engage with the Malaysian community in Bandar Seri Begawan.
- Raja Zarith Sofiah will inaugurate the Malaysia Publication Corner at Sultan Sharif Ali Islamic University (UNISSA), showcasing joint research publications between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia.
Trade Relations between Malaysia and Brunei
- In 2023, Brunei Darussalam was Malaysia’s 30th largest trading partner and the sixth largest among ASEAN nations, with trade totaling RM9.31 billion (US$2.04 billion).
- From January to July this year, total trade between the countries reached RM5.48 billion (US$1.16 billion).
This royal visit not only signifies the strong historical and cultural ties between Malaysia and Brunei but also highlights the importance of diplomatic relations and trade partnerships in the Southeast Asian region. As both countries continue to strengthen their bond through such visits and engagements, it paves the way for enhanced collaboration, mutual understanding, and economic growth. The exchange of ideas, research, and cultural initiatives during this visit further solidifies the foundation for a prosperous and harmonious relationship between Malaysia and Brunei, benefiting both nations and their people in the long term.