HIS MAJESTY the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Sultan Ibrahim, has commenced a historic State Visit to Russia at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin—marking a diplomatic first for Malaysia since the establishment of formal ties with Moscow in 1967.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim described the visit, taking place from 5 to 10 August, as “historic and significant”, saying it would “open a new chapter” in Malaysia-Russia relations.
“It symbolises His Majesty’s position as a unifying figure for the nation, who also plays a strategic role in strengthening Malaysia’s international relations,” the Prime Minister said.
Anwar, who accompanied His Majesty to the Royal Malaysian Air Force base in Subang for the Departure Ceremony, noted that the visit holds weight both symbolically and practically.
“More importantly, this State Visit strengthens the role of the Malaysian Royal Institution as a driver of diplomacy respected at the international level, thereby reinforcing Malaysia’s sovereignty and image as a neutral, open and progressive nation.”
The Prime Minister expressed optimism that the royal visit would stimulate cooperation in sectors such as trade, investment, higher education, technology, innovation, and cultural exchange.
“Malaysia has the potential to attract new investments and technology from Russia, particularly in the energy, aerospace, defence, and smart agriculture sectors, in line with the MADANI Economy agenda that emphasises competitiveness, sustainability, and shared prosperity,” Anwar stated via Facebook.
The visit by Sultan Ibrahim is the first-ever by a Malaysian Head of State to Russia for a State-level engagement.
Russia currently ranks as Malaysia’s ninth-largest European trading partner and 28th globally. In 2024, bilateral trade reached RM11.46 billion (USD 2.48 billion), with trade for the first half of 2025 recorded at RM4.13 billion (USD 945.7 million). - August 4, 2025
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