Abu Dhabi:Malaysia and Bahrain have engaged in discussions to enhance cooperation in several key security areas, including the fight against terrorism, extremism, and transnational threats.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the discussions took place during a bilateral meeting between Malaysia's Home Minister, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, and Bahrain's Interior Minister, General Shaikh Rashid Abdulla Al Khalifa. This meeting was held on the sidelines of the 15th UN Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The talks also covered preparations for the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, scheduled to be held at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4, 2026. Saifuddin Nasution expressed Malaysia's honor in hosting Bahrain and the international motorsports community, emphasizing the event's role in fostering stronger ties between the two nations.

To ensure a secure environment for the Grand Prix, about 700 security and traffic management personnel will be deployed, and a dedicated immigration lane will be available for team crews and accredited personnel. Additionally, visa arrangements will be facilitated for foreign nationals attending the event.

The meeting also briefly addressed the ongoing development of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Preventing and Combating Transnational Crime between the two countries. This initiative aims to establish a more structured approach to security cooperation over the long term. Saifuddin highlighted the importance of Bahrain as a partner in maintaining public order and international peace and expressed hope for continued momentum in achieving tangible outcomes in security cooperation.