UK Minister for Indo-Pacific Reaffirms Strong Ties with Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) — The United Kingdom’s (UK) Minister for Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, has reaffirmed the strong ties between Malaysia and the UK, emphasizing the potential for deeper collaboration in trade, technology, healthcare, and education.
West, who is on her maiden two-day visit to Malaysia starting Monday (March 10), underscored the UK’s commitment to expanding bilateral relations, aligning with Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s vision to strengthen partnerships with key nations like Malaysia.
Deepening Relations in Trade, Technology, and More
"Keir Starmer, who is our Prime Minister, is very keen for us to develop good ties with countries like Malaysia, so that we can do more trade, do more economic development because we have a great relationship in terms of education," she said. "We can deepen our relationship even further around technology, Artificial Intelligence, exchanges on health, and some of the pharmaceutical interests here in Malaysia."
Strengthening Governance and the Rule of Law
West highlighted the importance of diplomatic engagement and people-to-people connections, emphasizing that Malaysia and the UK share a Westminster-style parliamentary system, presenting opportunities for collaboration in governance and the rule of law.
"As both countries operate under a similar system, we can work together on strengthening legal frameworks in an increasingly uncertain world. This includes areas such as the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) for maritime security, climate legislation ahead of the next COP Summit, and advancing policies for cleaner oceans and environmental protection," she said.
Addressing Climate Challenges
She also highlighted the need for innovation in tackling climate challenges, acknowledging the economic pressures faced by many nations.
Economic Ties and Investment Opportunities
During her visit, West also held bilateral talks with Deputy Foreign Minister, Datuk Mohamad Alamin, and engaged with Malaysian businesses in sectors such as urban planning, healthcare, and banking, underscoring the UK’s interest in expanding economic ties and investment opportunities.
Commonwealth Observance Day
The event, themed ‘Together We Thrive,’ brought together High Commissioners, community leaders from Commonwealth nations, and distinguished Malaysians to reflect on the importance of collaboration and mutual support in addressing global challenges.
West also introduced the winner of the British High Commission’s Ambassador for the Day project at the event.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the UK’s Minister for Indo-Pacific, Catherine West, has reaffirmed the strong ties between Malaysia and the UK, emphasizing the potential for deeper collaboration in trade, technology, healthcare, and education. The UK’s commitment to expanding bilateral relations is a welcome development, and we look forward to seeing the positive outcomes of this partnership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the UK’s vision for its partnership with Malaysia?
A: The UK’s vision is to strengthen partnerships with key nations like Malaysia, focusing on areas such as trade, technology, healthcare, and education.
Q: What are the key areas of collaboration between Malaysia and the UK?
A: Collaboration will focus on deepening relations in trade, technology, Artificial Intelligence, exchanges on health, and pharmaceutical interests.
Q: What is the UK’s commitment to addressing climate challenges?
A: The UK is committed to addressing climate challenges through innovation and collaboration, acknowledging the economic pressures faced by many nations.