- Malaysia requests a reciprocal visa waiver with Canada during ASEAN Summits.
- The countries aim to conclude a MoU on defence cooperation.
- Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.
In a move to strengthen bilateral relations, Malaysia has officially requested a reciprocal visa waiver agreement with Canada. This was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim following a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the ASEAN Summits in Vientiane.
Beyond travel, Malaysia is also eager to conclude a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation with Canada.
Malaysia Pushes for Visa-Free Travel and Defence Cooperation with Canada
Malaysia has sought a reciprocal visa waiver arrangement with Canada, aimed at fostering smoother travel and economic ties. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim conveyed the request to his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, during the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Laos. The initiative, if approved, will allow citizens from both countries to travel more freely without the need for visa applications.
The dialogue also addressed defence matters, with both countries showing interest in formalizing their cooperation through a MoU on defence. This agreement would potentially bolster joint military exercises and strategic partnerships in areas of mutual interest. Anwar expressed confidence in the swift finalization of the MoU.
Cybersecurity was another focal point of the discussion. Malaysia’s Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (CCoE), which was established in March 2024, has ambitions to become an international hub in addressing emerging cyber threats. Anwar underscored the importance of global collaboration, inviting Canadian expertise in the sector.
Looking ahead, Malaysia is set to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. Anwar highlighted this upcoming responsibility as an opportunity to lead on critical regional issues, leveraging Malaysia’s growing role in diplomacy, defence, and technology.
The potential visa waiver between Malaysia and Canada marks a pivotal step in strengthening bilateral ties, while the emphasis on defence cooperation and cybersecurity signals a broader focus on security and technological collaboration. As Malaysia prepares for its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, these developments showcase its increasing leadership in the region.
“International cooperation is the key to addressing global challenges, and this partnership with Canada exemplifies our commitment to stronger bilateral ties.” – Anwar Ibrahim
