KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s newly appointed High Commissioner to New Zealand Abu Bakar Mamat has pledged to work closely with the New Zealand government to elevate bilateral relations.
The High Commission said Abu Bakar made the commitment after presenting his letter of credence to the Governor-General and Commander-in-Chief in and over the Realm of New Zealand, Dame Cindy Kiro, at Government House in Wellington on Wednesday (July 1).
Abu Bakar described New Zealand as a longstanding friend and important strategic partner, noting that Kiro’s visit to Malaysia in October 2023 marked an important milestone in bilateral ties and provided fresh impetus for deeper collaboration.
"For nearly seven decades, our two countries have enjoyed a close and enduring partnership founded on mutual trust, respect and cooperation.
"During my tenure in your beautiful country, I shall spare no effort in working closely with your Government to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessors, with a view to advancing a stronger, more dynamic, and forward-looking partnership between our two countries,” he said in a statement.
The High Commissioner also conveyed the warmest greetings and best wishes of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, to the Governor-General, together with His Majesty’s sincere wishes for her continued good health and well-being.
Malaysia and New Zealand are strategic partners and close friends in the Indo-Pacific. Over the years, both countries have forged dynamic and enduring ties, underpinned by strong cooperation in trade and investment, education, defence, agrifood, renewable energy, as well as engagement in regional and multilateral fora.
The two countries also enjoy complementary trade relations. Malaysia's main exports to New Zealand include petroleum products, palm oil-based manufactured products and electrical and electronic (E&E) goods, while New Zealand is a key supplier of processed food, particularly dairy products, as well as other agricultural products to Malaysia.
In 2025, total trade between Malaysia and New Zealand amounted to RM9.9bil (US$2.31bil).
Both countries will commemorate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027, providing an important opportunity to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and people-to-people ties. — Bernama
