WNAM MONITORING: Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with the Philippines during a reception marking its 68th National Day at Dusit Thani Residence in Davao City on Wednesday evening, Sept. 3.
Consul General Deddy Faisal Bin Ahmad Salleh of Malaysia underscored the “enduring friendship and close cooperation” between the two nations, citing trade, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people links as the foundation of the partnership.
“The Philippines has consistently stood as one of Malaysia’s most important trading partners,” Salleh said, noting that bilateral trade reached $8.3 billion in 2024, making Malaysia the Philippines’ ninth most significant trading partner and eighth largest source of approved foreign investments.
Among the projects highlighted was the Davao Public Transport Modernization Project, where Malaysian consultancy firm HSS contributes expertise to a 672-kilometer bus network set to begin operations in 2027.
Salleh also cited renewable energy firm MAQO Solar Group’s readiness to supply clean solar power to local governments across Mindanao.
Mindanao Development Authority Secretary Leo Tereso Magno, on behalf of the MinDA, reaffirmed their commitment to advancing regional cooperation as they joined the celebration of Malaysia’s 68th National Day.
As the Philippine Coordinating Office for Brunei-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area, MinDA highlighted the importance of sustained subregional cooperation in driving inclusive growth, strengthening connectivity, and unlocking economic opportunities for Mindanao.
Magno emphasized that regional cooperation is not merely a policy framework but a reality lived out daily through the close relationship between the Philippines and Malaysia.
“Our proximity is more than symbolic. We are, quite literally, office neighbors in the same building. This closeness reminds us that cooperation is part of our everyday lives and a driver of the inclusive development we seek,” Magno said.
Through the BIMP-EAGA, the MinDA Secretary assured to continue championing regional partnerships that build bridges between governments, communities, and businesses across ASEAN.
“Our partnership is broad, substantive, and mutually beneficial. Malaysia and the Philippines are united not only by geography but also by history, kinship, and a shared vision of prosperity,” Salleh said.
The Consul General emphasized Malaysia’s support for regional cooperation through the BIMP-EAGA and reaffirmed its role in facilitating the Bangsamoro peace process.
“Malaysia will continue to facilitate dialogue, promote mutual understanding, and work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the peace process remains inclusive, sustainable, and beneficial for the region’s people,” Salleh said.
Salleh highlighted the growing people-to-people connections, with over half a million Filipinos visiting Malaysia annually, while Malaysians pursue academic and professional opportunities in the Philippines.
Magno said the celebration echoed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directives for stronger regional cooperation under ASEAN and BIMP-EAGA.
The MinDA Secretary added that Marcos has consistently called for deeper economic linkages, renewable energy development, and connectivity projects that ensure equitable growth in Mindanao and the ASEAN region.
Looking ahead to the Philippines’ ASEAN chairmanship next year, Salleh assured Kuala Lumpur’s “fullest support,” stressing that both countries have long worked “shoulder-to-shoulder” in advancing peace, resilience, and prosperity in the region.
The event, organized by the Consulate General of Malaysia in Davao City, brought together government officials, business leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, and civil society representatives.
Salleh said the gathering also served as a platform to strengthen ties between Malaysia and the Philippines under the frameworks of ASEAN and the BIMP-EAGA.
The event also featured cultural performances by the Sarawak Art Council, brought to Davao with the support of Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts.
Also present at the event were Consul General Zhao Xiuzhen of China, Consul General Agus Trenggono of Indonesia, Consul General Ono Hirotaka of Japan, Assistant Secretary Maria Agnes Cervantes of the Department of Foreign Affairs in Mindanao, National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Lope Santos III, Lt. Gen. Luis Rex Bergante, commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command, Police Regional Office-11 Director Police Brig. Gen. Joseph Arguelles, Davao City Police Office Director Police Col. Mannan Muarip, Dr. Roland Suico, president of the Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and members of the Davao City Council.
