Bandar Seri Begawan，January 26（AseanAll）Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar paid an official visit to Brunei from January 24 to 25 and held talks with Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
This is Anwar's first official visit to Brunei Darussalam since he became Prime Minister of Malaysia on November 24, 2022. This is the second country he has visited since taking office as Prime Minister, and he has visited Indonesia before.
On December 25, Anwar held four-eye talks with Brunei Sultan.
After the meeting, the Prime Minister and the Sultan also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and the Brunei Investment Agency (BIA).
The MoU, among other things, provides an initial understanding for both parties to hold negotiations towards the implementation and preparation of further agreements on bilateral investment that can be carried out by certain parties between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia. The MoU will also include bilateral cooperation and investment in the downstream oil and gas sector, digital economy, smart manufacturing, smart agriculture, artificial intelligence, tourism and the halal food industry.
Brunei held an official luncheon for Malaysian representatives. At the luncheon，the Sultan in the titah underlined that both countries have long enjoyed close relations not only between the Royal Family and Government, but also all levels of society, which arise from similarities in history, religion, community and language. Such features, the Sultan says, have become the basis of harmony and ties of friendship that have long been enjoyed and instilled.
The Sultan states that ASEAN plays a role in maintaining regional peace and stability, and ASEAN member states also need to continue to emphasise on the importance of ASEAN Centrality. His Majesty expresses confidence that Malaysia's leadership as the Permanent Shepherd on the ASEAN Communities Post-2025 Vision will ensure that ASEAN remains relevant in the region.
Anwar in a return address expressed appreciation for His Majesty's friendship and support which will certainly improve bilateral relations.
The Prime Minister then assured that the special relation between the two countries in all fields, which is described as a commitment between two friendly nations will be sincerely implemented.
