Kuala Lumpur: The Maldives is extending an invitation to Malaysian companies to explore investment opportunities in strategic sectors, following substantial legal reforms aimed at attracting foreign investors. Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu highlighted these developments during the Maldives-Malaysia Business Forum 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, President Muizzu emphasized the significance of the new Foreign Investment Law, enacted in December 2024, which aligns with international best practices. This legislation ensures robust protection, transparency, and predictability for investors, while giving legal backing to both bilateral and multilateral investment treaties. "This is not merely a legislative reform. It is a clear signal that the Maldives is serious about welcoming the world's best partners on trusted, solid grounds," Muizzu stated.
Muizzu also acknowledged Malaysia's global competitiveness and commitment to sustainable development, noting the potential for Malaysian companies to contribute significantly to the Maldives' growth. He identified sectors such as real estate, tourism, logistics, renewable energy, and Special Economic Zones (SEZs) as attractive areas for investment. The president highlighted the incentives offered by the revitalized SEZs and the alignment of renewable energy initiatives with global sustainability trends.
Furthermore, Muizzu pointed out the strategic location of the Maldives along key shipping routes and its flourishing tourism sector as substantial opportunities for Malaysian businesses seeking expansion into maritime and logistics sectors.
This visit marks President Muizzu's first official trip to Malaysia since assuming office in November 2023, at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. During the event, Prime Minister Anwar also delivered a keynote address.
In 2024, Malaysia's total trade with the Maldives grew by 4.3 percent, reaching US$189 million (RM862.7 million), up from US$180.9 million (RM827.3 million) in 2023. This increase positions the Maldives as Malaysia's sixth-largest trading partner among South Asian countries.