Vietnam and Malaysia Boost Collaboration in Halal, Technology, and Clean Energy

Vietnam and Malaysia have taken a significant step to strengthen their long-standing friendship by elevating their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This agreement reflects their shared vision for peace, sustainable development, and regional prosperity within ASEAN and beyond.

During an official visit to Malaysia, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam held talks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Their discussions focused on fostering collaboration in areas like trade, green energy, science, technology, and the Halal industry.

A Historic Meeting in Putrajaya

The meeting between To Lam and Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya underscored the deep ties between the two nations. Anwar Ibrahim expressed Malaysia’s unwavering support for Vietnam, highlighting their partnership since Vietnam’s early ASEAN membership and reform era.

Lam expressed gratitude for Malaysia’s continuous support, emphasizing the importance of strengthening their partnership for mutual benefit. Both leaders acknowledged the value of their bilateral relationship not only for their people but also for contributing to regional stability and development.

Anwar Ibrahim commended Vietnam for its remarkable achievements over the past four decades since the launch of its Doi Moi (Renewal) reforms. These reforms transformed Vietnam into one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies, overcoming the challenges of post-war reconstruction and natural disasters.

Vietnam’s economic resilience is reflected in its GDP, which reached an estimated $409 billion in 2022. Key industries like electronics, textiles, and agriculture have driven this growth, enabling Vietnam to emerge as a leading player in the global market. Anwar Ibrahim emphasized Vietnam’s progress as a source of inspiration for ASEAN nations aiming to achieve sustainable development.

In return, To Lam praised Malaysia for its significant strides under the leadership of Anwar Ibrahim. The “MADANI Economy: Empowering the People” and the “New Industrial Master Plan 2030” showcase Malaysia’s commitment to inclusive and innovative growth.

Malaysia’s economy, valued at over $372 billion in 2022, benefits from its strong manufacturing sector, Islamic finance industry, and Halal-certified exports. Vietnam recognized Malaysia’s ability to balance economic growth with cultural and environmental preservation, making it a valuable partner in fostering regional collaboration.

Vietnam-Malaysia Cooperation

Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1973, Vietnam and Malaysia have enjoyed a robust relationship characterized by mutual respect and shared goals. Their bond was elevated to a strategic partnership in 2015, enabling them to collaborate more effectively across bilateral and multilateral platforms.

Bilateral trade has flourished, with total trade between the two nations reaching $19 billion in 2022. This significant achievement highlights the strength of their economic ties and the potential for further growth.

During their talks, To Lam and Anwar Ibrahim agreed to elevate their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This enhanced framework will focus on:

1. Strengthening economic connectivity for sustainable growth and innovation.
2. Deepening defense and security cooperation to address shared challenges.
3. Building trust through increased cultural and political exchanges.
4. Advancing collaboration in science, technology, digital transformation, and green energy.

To ensure these goals are realized, both leaders instructed their respective agencies to draft an action plan for the 2025-2030 period.

Priority Areas of Cooperation

Vietnam and Malaysia aim to deepen their economic partnership by promoting trade and investment. Key focus areas include:

• Manufacturing: Leveraging both countries’ industrial capabilities to boost exports and create employment opportunities.
• Halal Industry: Malaysia’s expertise in Halal certification offers Vietnam a pathway to access global Islamic markets.
• Tourism: Joint efforts to promote tourism through cultural exchanges, eco-tourism initiatives, and cross-border travel packages.

Recognizing the importance of sustainability, Vietnam and Malaysia are committed to leading in green energy and environmental protection. Their shared priorities include:

1. Developing renewable energy sources, including solar, wind, and hydropower.
2. Implementing policies to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
3. Encouraging investment in green technology and infrastructure to promote eco-friendly development.

Malaysia’s experience in sustainable palm oil production and Vietnam’s innovations in solar energy create unique opportunities for collaboration in this sector.

As global economies become increasingly digital, Vietnam and Malaysia are prioritizing cooperation in technology and innovation. Their initiatives include:

• Digital Infrastructure: Building robust systems to support e-commerce, fintech, and digital services.
• Research and Development: Collaborating on cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and robotics.
• Education and Skill Development: Enhancing workforce skills through joint education programs and vocational training.

Related: Malaysia-Vietnam Festival: Exploring Culinary Delights and Business Opportunities

A Strategic Priority

The Halal industry emerged as a key area of focus during the talks. Both nations recognized its potential to drive economic growth and strengthen cultural ties.

Malaysia, a global leader in Halal certification, exported $12 billion worth of Halal products in 2022, ranging from food and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals. Vietnam sees the $2 trillion global Halal market as an opportunity to diversify its exports and create jobs.

By adopting Malaysia’s expertise in Halal certification and leveraging its market access, Vietnam can position itself as a rising player in the Islamic economy.

Beyond bilateral cooperation, Vietnam and Malaysia reaffirmed their shared commitment to regional peace and security. Both nations emphasized the importance of ASEAN’s centrality in addressing global challenges.

1. Maritime Security: Collaborating on maintaining stability in the South China Sea through dialogue and adherence to international laws.
2. Economic Integration: Strengthening ASEAN’s role as a hub for trade, investment, and innovation.
3. Crisis Response: Enhancing regional collaboration in disaster management and public health preparedness.

Vietnam and Malaysia’s joint efforts aim to ensure that ASEAN remains a pillar of stability, growth, and resilience.

Historical Connections

Vietnam and Malaysia share a deep bond rooted in cultural and historical ties. Both countries are known for their rich traditions, diverse cuisines, and vibrant arts, which foster mutual understanding and appreciation.

Initiatives such as student exchange programs, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals play a vital role in strengthening people-to-people connections. These exchanges not only enhance mutual understanding but also promote shared values and traditions.

Tourism serves as a powerful tool for showcasing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of both nations. Joint tourism initiatives, such as eco-tourism campaigns and heritage tours, are expected to attract visitors and boost economic growth.

While the Vietnam-Malaysia partnership is thriving, there are challenges to address. Both nations need to navigate global economic uncertainties, adapt to technological disruptions, and tackle environmental concerns.

To address these challenges, Vietnam and Malaysia are focusing on:

• Strengthening regional supply chains to withstand global economic shocks.
• Encouraging innovation to remain competitive in a rapidly changing world.
• Investing in sustainable practices to mitigate the impact of climate change.

By working together, both countries aim to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and development.

The decision to elevate Vietnam and Malaysia’s relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership marks a new era in their bilateral ties. This enhanced framework reflects their commitment to mutual growth, regional stability, and global leadership.

As they collaborate on key initiatives such as green energy, digital transformation, and the Halal industry, Vietnam and Malaysia are setting an example for ASEAN and the broader international community. Their partnership represents a model of inclusive and sustainable growth for the 21st century.

With a clear vision and a shared determination, Vietnam and Malaysia are poised to achieve greater heights together, building a future that benefits not only their people but also the entire ASEAN region.