In a significant diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister and Treasurer Hon. James Marape underscored the pivotal role of Malaysia as a “very important” bilateral partner for Papua New Guinea (PNG). The statement was made during the welcoming address to the new Malaysian High Commissioner, H.E. Hamizan Hashim, on Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
Prime Minister Marape expressed the crucial role played by Malaysian companies in PNG, stating, “Your country is a very important bilateral partner to Papua New Guinea.” He continued by acknowledging the substantial impact on the economy, revealing that over 800 Malaysian companies are registered in Papua New Guinea, generating more than 30,000 jobs.
“At the business level, we are working with investors to expand agriculture, downstream forestry, fisheries, and other areas of the economy,” affirmed Prime Minister Marape.
“As you take up your post, I welcome you and look forward to actively working with you. I want to entrench and elevate the relationship between our two nations – more people-to-people, more business-to-business, and more government-to-government.”
Highlighting Malaysia’s economic growth, Prime Minister Marape expressed admiration, describing Malaysia’s transformation from a developing country into an economic powerhouse as an “inspiration” for Papua New Guinea. The Prime Minister mentioned a recent meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Hon. Anwar Ibrahim during APEC 2023 in San Francisco, where both leaders extended invitations for reciprocal visits.
Announcing plans for a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim later this year, Prime Minister Marape emphasiSed the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations. The exact date for the meeting will be determined in the coming months.
