KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia

—Malaysian King Al-Sultan Abdullah told President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. that the Philippines is Malaysia's important partner, stressing the need to level up their ties in new and emerging areas. President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. is welcomed by Malaysian King  Al-Sultan Abdullah at the National Palace on July 26, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Malacañang)
The King made the statement during a state banquet held for Marcos and his delegation on Wednesday, July 27. “It is our hope that Malaysia and the Philippines can expand the collaboration and partnership in the new and emerging areas such as agriculture, digital economy and Halal food industry...progress can only be achieved and maintain through stability and prosperity in the region and the world as a whole,” the King said. He pointed out that the two countries "have always shared close and long-standing relations," sharing many commonalities and strong people-to-people ties. "To this day, we have faced many common challenges but we have also achieved much more together, underpinned by shared interest and close cooperation across many areas," the King said. "It is our fervent hope that the warm relationship will continue to blossom for the mutual benefit of our people and nations,” he added. The King said that Malaysia regards the Philippines as an important trading partner in the region. "Given our close proximity and active involvement in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), Malaysia regards the Philippines as an important partner. In 2022, the Philippines was Malaysia’s fifth largest trading partner in the region. While Malaysia was the Philippines’ fourth largest trading partner,” he said. “Mutual efforts and understanding are vital to further elevate our close relations and good cooperation to new heights. This can be achieved through active engagement across at all levels,” the King also said. The Malaysian monarch said Marcos’ state visit “holds a very special significance, which strengthens the ties between our two great countries and also celebrates the long and deep-rooted friendship between our families."

Polo diplomacy must continue

In his speech, the King also recalled the fond memories he had with the Marcos family and friends during his visit in Manila and stressed the polo legacy between the two countries must continue. "As we gather here, I feel overwhelming to think of our friendship of many years. One such channel through which we have bonded is the sport of polo, which (is) better described as polo diplomacy,” he said. “Touching a bit on polo diplomacy, I have fond memories of Manila,” the King added, recalling how they initiated the Pahang Cup at the Manila Polo Club as an annual event of polo diplomacy. He added that through spirited matches and shared passion, both countries have fostered camaraderie and understanding among its people. “So, I hope this polo diplomacy or polo legacy will continue with our children,” the King said. “While we may have paused our polo matches for the time being, I’m optimistic that we will soon engage in a new endeavor together, perhaps we can now embark on the greens and fairways of golf,” he remarked. He further said that the regular exchanges of high-level visits among leaders and officials of both countries “will further contribute to the positive momentum in advancing our shared interest in addressing common challenges.” The President and the King met at the Istana Negara or the National Palace where the former was given a State Welcoming ceremony. Marcos is currently in Kuala Lumpur for a state visit which will end Thursday, July 27.