TIONG: Reflecting on 56 years of Malaysia, Kenya ties

August 31, 2021, marks the 64th Independence Day of Malaysia. Malaysia got her independence from the British in 1957, and was known as the Federation of Malaya. In 1963, Malaysia was formed with the addition of Sabah and Sarawak. Since then, Malaysia celebrates both occasions, which mark significant milestones on the social, cultural, political and economic development of the country.

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected the running of the world, including the celebration of the Independence Day. From colourful parade, multicultural performances and flamboyant fireworks; now, the celebration is more moderate, with no public gathering allowed. Following last year’s celebration, Malaysians are expected to stay at home whilst enjoying virtual events.

As for diplomatic missions, receptions are still banned, worldwide. However, the High Commission of Malaysia will still proudly celebrate the occasion amid the pandemic, by keeping the Malaysian flag ‘Jalur Gemilang’ flying high, here, in Nairobi. Despite being far away from home, the spirit of nationhood remains intact. It is our fervent hope that we will be able to celebrate the event physically, with all Malaysians and friends of Malaysia, next year.

The theme ‘Malaysia Cares’ is retained from last year’s celebration, in order to recognise, reflect and revere the caring, determined and patient nature of Malaysians in facing the challenges brought about by the pandemic. The fight against the pandemic is far from over. We are fighting a battle with no physical enemies. We are fighting a battle with no assurance of winning. We are fighting a battle with only each other to rely on.

In spite of these conditions, Malaysians remain united to fight the battle, in Malaysia and around the world. Hence, the joyous occasion is to celebrate all Malaysians and the sacrifices that they make to ensure we are winning the battle. The same goes for Malaysians living here, in Kenya. Malaysians are strictly following the rules set by the local government, so as to join hands in containing the pestilential virus.

That is not the only evidence of Malaysia and Kenya joining forces. Notwithstanding the 7,128km distance separating the two countries, Malaysia and Kenya long established their diplomatic ties in 1965, with the establishment of the Malaysian Trade Office in Nairobi.

The relations improved with the establishment of our diplomatic missions in both countries, in Kuala Lumpur in 1997 and in Nairobi in 2005. The relations were further enhanced with high-level visits by both sides. The latest visits were by the Minister of Primary Industries of Malaysia and Senate Speaker of Kenya, before the Covid-19 pandemic in 2019. 

The friendship has shown no sign of waning, as evidenced in 2020 by Kenya being Malaysia’s fourth-biggest trading partner in Africa. Despite the Covid-19 pandemic, trade between the two countries remains robust. The total trade between Malaysia and Kenya was at $625 million, with an increase of $220 million compared to 2019. With the positive trend, the economic ties between the two countries may flourish even further in the future.

Major imports from Kenya are metalliferous ores and metal scrap; and agricultural products, whilst Malaysia exports palm oil; iron and steel; palm oil-based processed products; machinery, equipment and parts; and rubber products. Earlier this year, Malaysia car manufacturer, PROTON Holdings, collaborated with Simba Corporation in assembling PROTON cars in Mombasa; thus, providing a new dimension for the two countries to cooperate in the auto industry, in line with Kenya’s Big Four development agenda.

Besides trade and investment, both countries enjoy good cooperation in various fields of mutual interests, including supporting each other’s candidature at international organisations. In 1996, the two countries’ relation was further elevated after Kenya was accorded with the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme Recipient Country status, in line with Malaysia’s commitment to share development experience with developing countries under the South-South Cooperation framework.

To date, 417 Kenyan public officials have benefitted from various courses offered under the MTCP, including diplomacy, halal industry, and public administration. Malaysia looks forward to more active participation from Kenyan officials in the future. Interested applicants may visit the MTCP Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/MTCPMalaysia for more information and updates on the programme.

Over the years, relations between Kenya and Malaysia have remained cordial, with no open issues. Malaysia in this regard remains committed to maintaining the close relationship and expanding the areas of cooperation between the two countries, for mutual benefits.

High Commissioner of Malaysia to Kenya