Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure
ZIMBABWE is actively working to enhance its ties with Malaysia, focusing on trade, agriculture, technology and business opportunities, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira said yesterday while signing the condolence book for former Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
The two countries wanted to raise the trade profile between them, fostering mutual benefits, Prof Murwira said afterwards to enhance the long-standing relationship between Zimbabwe and Malaysia.
“Zimbabwe and Malaysia have excellent relations which date back a very long time,” he said.
“The two countries have a lot of exchanges, especially in human capital development. We are now working to deepen our relations by making sure that we raise the trade profile between our two sister countries.”
Prof Murwira conveyed his sadness over the death of the former Malaysia PM, recognising his role as a friend to Zimbabwe.
“It is with deep sadness that we learnt about the death of former Prime Minister of Malaysia Abdulla Ahmad Badawi. It is out of this deep respect that we came to sign the book of condolences on behalf of the Government and the people of Zimbabwe,” he said.
Chargé D’Affaires for the Malaysian Embassy in Zimbabwe Mr Aniff Fauzi noted the cooperation between the two nations, especially during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle.
“We have a lot of cooperation, especially on international forums. The bilateral relations between the two countries have been very productive. The focus now is mainly on trade, education, social and investment,” he said.
Former PM Badawi (85) died on April 14. He is remembered for his significant contributions to Malaysia.
The former PM’s tenure as Prime Minister from 2003 to 2009 was marked by a focus on good governance, anti-corruption efforts, civil service reform, and promoting interfaith dialogue.
He was born in a respected religious and political family.
His grandfather, Syeikh Abdullah Fahim, was a prominent Islamic scholar and nationalist, while his father, Ahmad Badawi, was a religious teacher and politician.
Under his leadership, Malaysia experienced strong economic stability, emphasising agriculture and rural development.
He also introduced the concept of Islam Hadhari, advocating a modern and inclusive interpretation of Islam. A majority of the Malaysian population are Muslim, but with substantial minorities of those of other faiths.
His legacy continues to influence Malaysia’s national discourse, with a lasting impact on public accountability and unity.
