PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. arrived yesterday afternoon in Malaysia for his three-day state visit which aims to strengthen ties between Manila and Kuala Lumpur as well as explore potential new areas of cooperation such as the Halal industry and Islamic banking.
Marcos, who left the country around 1 p.m. and arrived in Kuala Lumpur at 4:57 p.m., were accompanied by First Lady Liza Marcos, Communications Secretary Cheloy Garafil, and some members of government’s economic team.
Vice President Sara Duterte heads the caretaker committee while the President is on his July 25 to 27 visit.
The President said his visit to Malaysia was on the invitation of King Al-Sultan Abdullah whom he will meet on Wednesday to discuss the renewed partnerships in various sectors.
The Philippine and Malaysia are set to celebrate their 60th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations in 2024.
Marcos will also meet with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Their talks will focus on areas of cooperation in agreed priority areas.
“This visit aims to forge synergies with Malaysia for the Philippines to enjoy a share of this market,” he said.
During the visit, the President is also set to meet with Malaysian business leaders to showcase trade and investment opportunities in the country as well as “build new bridges between our economies and create inroads to new ventures that will see our bilateral trade volumes and investments increase.”
Before returning to Manila, Marcos will meet with the Filipinos in Malaysia to “personally show the nation’s care and protection and reassure them that the government is continuously working to ensure their safety and well-being.”
