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Malaysia’s King Strengthens Ties with Bahrain in Historic State Visit

A royal delegation lands in Manama, signaling deeper cooperation. Decades after his last visit, Malaysia’s King reaffirms bonds with a key Gulf ally.

A woman is walking holding bag, there are trees, these is grass.
A woman is walking holding bag, there are trees, these is grass.

Malaysia’s King Strengthens Ties with Bahrain in Historic State Visit

His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, has arrived in Bahrain for a significant three-day state visit. This marks the sixth such visit by Sultan Ibrahim, and the first since 1974. Accompanying him are Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin and Comptroller of the Royal Household of Istana Negara Tan Sri Dr Azmi Rohani. His Majesty's sons - Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Al-Haj, Tunku Panglima Johor Tunku Abdul Rahman Al-Haj, and Tunku Putera Johor Tunku Abu Bakar Al-Haj - were present to welcome him.

The state visit comes on the heels of a four-day visit to Saudi Arabia. Malaysia's main exports to Bahrain include processed food, palm-based products, electrical and electronic products, and transport equipment. Meanwhile, Malaysia's main imports from Bahrain are metal goods, metal ores and scrap, petroleum products, as well as iron and steel. Last year, bilateral trade between the two nations stood at RM1.19 billion (US$0.26 billion).

Upon arrival, His Majesty was received by King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain and other Bahraini princes. Bahrain remains one of Malaysia's key trading partners in the West Asia region, alongside other strategic logistics hubs and politically aligned countries. This visit underscores Malaysia's commitment to diversifying its trade partnerships and reducing dependence on China.

The state visit to Bahrain by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim is a testament to the strong bilateral ties between the two nations. With a robust trade relationship and shared geopolitical interests, both countries stand to benefit from this royal visit. The visit is expected to further strengthen the bonds between Malaysia and Bahrain, fostering greater cooperation and understanding.

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