Elevation of ties provides motivations for both Vietnam, Malaysia: Expert
Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam’s recent official visit to Malaysia and the elevation of bilateral relations is a timely move that brings great motivations for both sides, according to Collins Chong Yew Keat, an expert on foreign affairs and security at the University of Malaya.
It reflects the importance of Malaysia to Vietnam, particularly in the context of Vietnam’s efforts to make contributions to ASEAN through its support for Malaysia, the ASEAN Chair in 2025, Collins said.
The expert held that the Vietnamese leader’s visit, spanning from November 21-23, along with the relationship elevation brought about positive outcomes in three key aspects.
First, it strengthened economic power and future resources. Second, it built greater political trust. And third, it sent out a strong message that bilateral relationship and mutual trust are maintained and reinforced, he stated.
Looking ahead to future cooperation, Collins emphasised that both countries focusing simultaneously on areas such as people-to-people diplomacy and cultural exchange, alongside boosting trade and investment, would generate even greater synergy by complementing each other’s strengths.
Malaysia needs to address food security challenges, where Vietnam can play a larger role. High-tech manufacturing, the digital economy, and natural resources are areas where Malaysia holds a competitive advantage, and these are sectors where Vietnam can leverage its strengths, he noted.
Both nations are also key destinations for foreign direct investment in the region. With the growing relocation of top-tier technology companies to Southeast Asia, there are significant opportunities for both countries. This dynamic will lead to broader economic integration and development, contributing to the shared goals of defence and security, said the expert.
Collins asserted that the Vietnam-Malaysia bilateral relationship is poised to play a crucial role in ASEAN’s future, particularly with Malaysia assuming the rotating ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. Therefore, Party General Secretary To Lam’s visit will lay the groundwork for an expanded partnership, strengthening ASEAN’s role and influence under Malaysia’s leadership. This is an opportune moment for both nations to align their efforts toward shared larger goals, including maintaining regional peace and stability, while ensuring economic recovery and future development through strategic economic and trade growth, he underlined.
