Kuala lumpur: Cooperation between Malaysia and Bangladesh is set to expand into emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), energy, and semiconductors, according to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized the importance of extending collaboration beyond traditional sectors to embrace research and new technologies, highlighting AI as a crucial area for future challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar made these remarks during a joint press conference with Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, who is on a two-day official visit to Malaysia. The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cultural Cooperation and two Exchanges of Notes (EoN) in Counter-Terrorism Research and Investment Promotion and Facilitation.

Anwar expressed his gratitude to Tarique for choosing Malaysia as the destination for his official visit, noting the gesture as a sign of deep affection and trust. He recalled Tarique's and his family's commitment to defending freedom and promoting progress amidst enduring hardships.

Tarique highlighted the substantial potential for Malaysian investment in Bangladesh and encouraged Malaysian businesses to explore opportunities in various sectors, including energy, infrastructure, manpower, the halal industry, agro-processing, and the digital economy. He noted that Bangladeshi workers and entrepreneurs in Malaysia play a vital role in bridging the two countries.

In 2025, the total trade between Malaysia and Bangladesh was valued at RM12.18 billion (US$2.84 billion), with Malaysia's exports, primarily petroleum products, amounting to RM10.08 billion (US$2.35 billion). Bangladesh's exports to Malaysia, mainly textiles, apparel, and footwear, totaled RM2.10 billion (US$500 million). Bangladesh ranks as Malaysia's 28th largest trading partner globally and its second-largest in South Asia after India.