ADDIS ABABA: With vast opportunities for the blossoming of relations between Malaysia and Ethiopia, cooperation between the two countries must not only be meaningful but also courageous, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim
The Prime Minister said in a world full of uncertainties, countries need friends that are honest, strong and one that will carry each other.
“This is what I am witnessing here between Malaysia and Ethiopia, countries that are full in history, spirit and a future that is extraordinary,” he said at the Malaysia-Ethiopia High Level Business Forum here yesterday, where he emphasised that economic cooperation is not just about figures and contracts, but one that must have mutual benefits.
“Malaysia is present here in Africa today with the yearning to build a bridge that is fair, inclusive and sustainable,” he said.
“We want to open opportunities for green investment, digital technology, modern farming and access to Asean that is dynamic.”
Anwar also said that for an economy to grow and become vibrant, a country must ensure democratic resilience.
Citing Asean as an example, he said stability and peace has allowed the Asean region to flourish.
“Stability and inclusivity has allowed Asean to grow and develop many sectors, including energy transition,” he added.
Malaysia has also reiterated her commitment to open new pathways for trade, investment and shared prosperity not just with Ethiopia but also with Africa at large.
Anwar said rapid, complex shifts brought about by geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and climate-related challenges have shown how important reliable partners are.
“Now is the time for nations to stand together to uphold stability, encourage open markets and pursue inclusive, sustainable growth.
“Ethiopia, and Africa as a whole, is not just a partner for Malaysia or South-East Asia, but a strategic collaborator in a rapidly changing world,” he said, noting that Malaysia’s economic engagement with Africa has grown steadily over the years, from telecommunications infrastructure to aviation services, education, agriculture, and energy.
Bridging nations: Anwar speaking with Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie during a meeting in Addis Ababa. — Photo courtesy of the Prime Minister’s Office
“Ethiopia’s reforms, its logistics aspirations, and its young, dynamic workforce provide a strong foundation for deeper cooperation.
“We see real potential in high-growth sectors such as digital technology, renewable energy, agro-industry, infrastructure development and Islamic finance,” he said.
“In fact, several Malaysian companies have already expressed interest in exploring Ethiopia as a strategic hub for east Africa, a reflection of confidence in Ethiopia’s growth trajectory.”
Anwar said as a trading country, Malaysia is deeply rooted in the rule-based multilateral system, as well in as high-standard trade frameworks.
“We actively seek to expand such frameworks and networks. These platforms offer expanded market access and strong trading rules, opportunities that can be unlocked through Malaysia-Ethiopia partnerships,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia’s transformation agenda – driven by the Madani Economy and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 – places sustainability at the centre of its national development.
“We are advancing renewable energy, energy transition industries, electric mobility and circular economy initiatives.
“These are precisely the forward-looking areas, where meaningful and impactful collaboration can flourish between our two nations through joint ventures, technology exchanges and co-investments in climate-smart agriculture, clean energy, and green industrialisation,” he added.
The forum was attended by 80 business representatives from Malaysia and 54 from Ethiopia.
