PUTRAJAYA, July 2 — Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr has invited Malaysian companies to participate in economic activities in Southern Philippines.
Wisma Putra in a statement said the invitation was extended during Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan’s courtesy call on Marcos in conjunction with his official visit to the Philippines yesterday.
Among the key points discussed by Mohamad and Marcos was the positive development in Southern Philippines.
“Given the region’s vast potential, the President invited Malaysian companies to participate in various economic activities to promote socio-economic development in the Southern Philippines,” it read.
Mohamad’s visit coincided with the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and the Philippines.
Mohamad also held a meeting with his counterpart, Enrique A. Manalo, during which they underlined the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation, especially in trade, investment, halal industry, Islamic finance and food security.
They also deliberated regional and international issues of shared interest, emphasising the need for Asean to be united in addressing regional issues, and the urgent need for an immediate ceasefire in Palestine, said the statement.
The Philippines assured its full cooperation during Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship in 2025.
The Foreign Affairs Minister reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to supporting the socio-economic development of Bangsamoro via capacity-building programmes, including the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme.
A reception to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations was also held.
The reception was attended by senior Philippine government officials, diplomats, business leaders and members of the Malaysian diaspora.
— Bernama
