By Shruti Menon Seeboo
Relations between Mauritius and Malaysia are characterised by cordial diplomatic ties and cooperation across various sectors. Both countries have maintained regular engagement through bilateral visits, exchanges, and collaboration on regional and international platforms. Economically, trade between Mauritius and Malaysia has seen steady growth over the years, with both countries exploring opportunities for investment and economic cooperation. Malaysia has been a key destination for Mauritian exports, particularly in sectors such as textiles, apparel, and agricultural products. Additionally, there have been efforts to enhance bilateral trade through the negotiation of trade agreements and the promotion of business exchanges.
In the realm of education and cultural exchange, Mauritius and Malaysia have fostered collaboration through scholarship programs, student exchanges, and cultural initiatives. Malaysian universities have been a popular destination for Mauritian students seeking higher education opportunities, further strengthening people-to-people ties between the two nations. Furthermore, both Mauritius and Malaysia have been active participants in regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the Commonwealth, where they work together on issues of mutual interest such as maritime security, sustainable development, and economic cooperation.
We speak with Mr. Mohd Hail Aniff Bin Mohd Fauzi, Chargé d’Affaires for the Embassy of Malaysia based in the Republic of Zimbabwe and he tells us more on the relationship between Mauritius and Malaysia and how its characterised by mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to enhancing bilateral ties for the benefit of both nations. Excerpts:
- Can you elaborate on the key areas of cooperation between Malaysia and Mauritius, and how these diplomatic relations benefit both countries?
Bilateral relations between Malaysia and Mauritius were established in 1987 and have remained warm and cordial ever since. The economic aspect is the bedrock of these relations, with Mauritius being Malaysia’s 24th largest trading partner in Africa. In 2022, the total trade between Malaysia and Mauritius was valued at RM492 million, representing a 26.03% increase from RM364 million recorded in 2021. As of 31 May 2023, the total trade between these two countries stands at RM134 million. The robust trade relations have also resulted to cooperation in other sectors, such as education, tourism, and connectivity.
- Can you provide examples of specific Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) or agreements that have been signed between Malaysia and Mauritius to enhance cooperation in talent development, expertise sharing, business linkages, and infrastructure support?
So far, Malaysia and Mauritius have signed six (6) Government-to-Government Agreements, specifically related to transportation, cultural exchange, and taxation. As the post-pandemic era has allowed for the resumption of economic activity and prompted digitalisation, I believe there is an opportunity to unlock new areas of interest in response to uncertainty in the future, especially in business, health, agriculture and food. By capitalising on the strengths of our respective economies, we can reinforce bilateral cooperation and encourage more people-to-people interaction. Being the new CDA at the High Commission of Malaysia based in Harare, I am excited to pursue these new initiatives with the relevant parties in Malaysia.
- What are the potential economic and trade opportunities between the two nations, and how are they being explored or harnessed to mutual benefit?
There is still a lot of untapped potential in the trade and investment sector. It is important to encourage and facilitate the private sector in Malaysia to tap opportunities in Mauritius. Similarly, companies from Mauritius can also benefit by using Malaysia as a gateway into Southeast Asia. With its strategic location and easy access to other ASEAN member countries, Malaysia can serve as a launching pad for businesses looking to expand in the region. Economic cooperation is a key driver in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
- Could you describe the role of the respective diplomatic missions, including Mauritius’ high commission in Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia’s embassy accredited to Mauritius, in facilitating bilateral relations?
Both respective missions aim to enhance bilateral relations through various engagements with personalities and stakeholders in their respective countries. Sometimes, the roles could be varied depending on the key performance indicators assigned for each diplomatic mission. For Malaysia-Mauritius, we do not have any major issues, and therefore, our focus is solely towards enhancing the prospects of the cooperation in economy, tourism, social, and education. I believe the High Commission of Mauritius in Kuala Lumpur also have similar roles and actively initiated numerous programmes with a greater advantage over engagement and visibility as their diplomatic mission is based in Kuala Lumpur.
- What cultural and people-to-people exchanges or initiatives exist between Malaysia and Mauritius to strengthen the bonds between the two nations?
In strengthening bonds between the two countries, our initiatives focus on education and training exchange under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP) and higher education. We are happy to note that as of 2022, 446 students from Mauritius are pursuing higher education at various public and private institutes of higher learning in Malaysia, and 476 officials from Mauritius have participated in various short-term courses under the MTCP.
Malaysia is also actively promoting tourism as a medium to encourage people-to-people contacts. Mauritius is a dream holiday destination for tourists worldwide with no need for introduction, even from Malaysians. Air Mauritius flies twice weekly directly to Kuala Lumpur and, to my knowledge, is the first country in the Africa region that still maintains direct flights to Kuala Lumpur. This will be advantageous and enable us to showcase more cultural and tourism products between the two countries. To concretize further the initiatives, the two countries are currently finalising the MoU on cooperation in the field of culture, arts and heritage. It is hoped this MoU will further enhance the bonds between the two countries, paving the way for more constructive engagement between the two countries.
- Tell us about life and culture of Malaysia?
Malaysia is a culturally diverse country with many different traditions. Malaysia celebrates many cultural and religious festivals, such as Eid al-Fitr, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Christmas. These festivities are celebrated by diverse society in Malaysia and often include traditional music and delicious food. Malaysia has many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as George Town in Penang and Melaka Historic City, which reflect the country’s rich history. Since Malaysia and Mauritius have direct flights, I am confident that the connectivity integrates our culture and contributes mobility between the peoples.
- Looking ahead, what are the long-term goals and priorities for Malaysia-Mauritius relations, and how do both nations plan to further enhance their cooperation and partnership?
The prospect of collaboration is enormous; since 1987, our trade and investment cooperation has increased. I truly believe there are still many opportunities for us to unleash as we strive to strengthen the relations between Malaysia and Mauritius in the short and long term. To achieve this goal, exchanging visits at all levels will be crucial in fostering closer ties between our countries. Meanwhile, with the support of Malaysia’s Honorary Consul in Mauritius, Mr. Saleem Rashid Beebeejaun, the Embassy is currently working on and coordinating a suitable program and activities, including organizing a Malaysian Showcase in Mauritius. Such programme will drive business and tourism players alike to explore the opportunities for the mutual benefit of our two peoples.
