Philippines eyes constant communication with Malaysia

MANILA, Philippines —  President Marcos yesterday met with Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Hasan, who is in the Philippines to highlight the 60 years of relations between Manila and Kuala Lumpur.

During his courtesy call on Marcos at Malacañang, Mohamad said his visit to the Philippines was “very long overdue.”

“I was supposed to be here during my previous portfolio, which is defense... but I said I must come to visit my friend,” Malaysia’s top diplomat said.

Mohamad is a former defense minister of Malaysia.

Marcos thanked Mohamad for visiting the Philippines and cited the need for them to communicate continuously.

“Welcome to the Philippines. Thank you for finding time to visit with us while you are traveling around ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). So, I hope you will have a productive visit,” Marcos said.

In a statement, the Presidential Communications Office said Marcos and Mohamad “discussed the bilateral relations between the Philippines and Malaysia and important regional issues” but did not elaborate.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Enrique Manalo also held a bilateral meeting with Mohamad yesterday.?“FM Hasan’s visit builds upon the momentum created by the two leaders and is very timely as the two countries enter 60 years of bilateral relations and as both countries continue to expand and deepen their partnership and collaboration,” Manalo said.

The Malaysian foreign minister’s visit came almost a year after Marcos undertook a three-day state visit to Malaysia. Officials said the visit, which took place from July 25 to 27 last year, obtained $285 million in investment pledges that are expected to create 100,000 jobs.

Malaysia played a key role in the Mindanao peace process and was the Philippines’ ninth major trading partner, 11th export market and eighth import supplier in 2023.

It also ranked 16th among the Philippines’ top investment partners last year, with total approved investments amounting to $13.17 million.  –  Pia Lee-Brago