KOTA TINGGI: The close relationship between His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and King Hamad Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain is expected to bring strategic benefits to the country, says Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said Sultan Ibrahim’s recent visit to the Middle Eastern country was an important step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
Mohamed Khaled, who accompanied His Majesty during the state visit last week, said strong diplomatic relations with friendly nations such as Bahrain are crucial to ensure continued support for Malaysia on the global stage.
“Our country takes a neutral approach on many matters, and sometimes other countries are not comfortable with our positions and statements.
“That is why it is important for us to have countries that are close to us, understand us and continue to support us.
“The King plays a key role in fostering such close and friendly relations,” he told reporters after launching the Madani Sekolah Angkat programme at SK Felda Lok Heng yesterday.
The three-day visit, which began on Thursday, was Sultan Ibrahim’s sixth state visit following trips to Singapore, China, Brunei, Russia and Saudi Arabia.
It also marked a milestone in Malaysia-Bahrain diplomatic relations, being the first state visit since 1974.
On the Sabah state election, Mohamed Khaled said Barisan Nasional’s decision to field more young candidates shows its seriousness in implementing reforms within the coalition.
“Barisan is serious about implementing change and giving opportunities to new and young candidates who may be able to bring greater progress to Sabah,” he added.
