Anwar's meeting with Putin ushers in new era for Malaysia-Russia relations
Anwar's meeting with Putin ushers in new era for Malaysia-Russia relations
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's visit to Russia and his meeting with Vladimir Putin are historic and are expected to pave the way for stronger bilateral relations.
Unity government spokesman Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said that Anwar would be the first Malaysian Prime Minister in 17 years to receive a formal guard of honour.
"The prime minister is currently in Russia for the Economic Forum in Kazan. As previously mentioned, he is the first Malaysian Head of Government in 17 years to receive a full ceremonial guard of honour. He is scheduled to meet with President Vladimir Putin today, either in the afternoon or early evening, and the meeting will be broadcast live by RTM.
"This is a historic moment that will undoubtedly open up opportunities for closer ties, including stronger trade relations between the two countries," he said during the Ministry of Communications' weekly press conference today.
The visit marks Anwar's second trip to Russia in eight months and his first official visit since taking office in November 2022.
It is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, boosting economic cooperation, and enhancing Malaysia's engagement with the Islamic world, particularly through platforms like KazanForum 2025.
In a separate matter, Fahmi said that the cabinet had issued a reminder regarding the arrival of heads of government and heads of state for the Asean-GCC and Asean-GCC-China Economic Summits, which will take place from May 25 to 27. They will arrive in Kuala Lumpur via Subang Airport or KLIA.
He said that certain routes would be designated at specific times to facilitate their travel.
"The Education Ministry will soon announce which schools will be granted flexibility to conduct online learning or PdPR (home-based teaching and learning).
"Last week, the Public Service Department also issued a circular permitting civil servants at affected premises or offices to work from home.
"Private companies, particularly those in the Klang Valley, are encouraged to consider allowing their employees to work from home to help reduce congestion," he added.
Fahmi also encouraged the public to use public transport during the summit period.
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