The Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lenora Qereqeretabua, announced plans for Fiji to reopen its mission in Kuala Lumpur during the celebrations for the country’s 67th National Day and the 61st Malaysia Day.
Qereqeretabua emphasized that the reopening of the High Commission in Kuala Lumpur aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and boost trade between Fiji and Malaysia. She stated that while the exact timeline for the reopening could not be disclosed, Kuala Lumpur would serve as a central point for future trade activities.
She expressed her congratulations to the Malaysian government and its people on their national day, recalling the long-standing relationship that dates back several decades, particularly referencing the support Fiji provided during Malaysia’s challenging times.
The minister acknowledged the phrase “Bula Maleya,” which the Malaysian High Commissioner used in his speech, highlighting the historical partnership between the two nations. Qereqeretabua remarked on the strong and healthy relationship with Malaysia and expressed Fiji’s desire to learn from Malaysia’s developments.
Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Fiji, Nor’Azam Mohd Idrus, noted the similarities between Malaysia’s “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka” initiative and Fiji’s focus on unity, patriotism, sustainability, and prosperity. He explained that the Malaysia Madani framework, introduced by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, underscores core values of sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and compassion.
Idrus also highlighted that the ties between Fiji and Malaysia date back to the 1950s during the Malayan Emergency, when 1,600 Fijians displayed remarkable bravery, laying the foundation for a solid bond between the two countries.
He pointed out that Malaysia is an open economy that values business relationships with countries around the world, including Fiji, and consistently ranks among Fiji’s top ten trading partners, underscoring the strength of their trade relations. Idrus mentioned notable contributions from companies with strong ties to Malaysia, such as the Carpenters Group, Spirit of Endeavour, and Shangri-La, and expressed his commitment to support the ongoing growth of these firms in Fiji.