The High Commission of Malaysia in Pretoria celebrated its 67th National Day and 61st Malaysia Day on 12 September 2024 at the Ambassador’s Residence. This year’s National Day was celebrated under the theme “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka”. The theme reflects a deep and multifaceted vision for the nation, emphasising the ideals of a progressive, inclusive, and compassionate society, while also celebrating the spirit of independence that has shaped Malaysia’s identity.

South Africa and Malaysia share longstanding relations, with both countries enjoying a deep bond based on solid foundations, which can be further built upon in both scope and substance for mutual benefit, and for the benefit of the broader developing world. The historical ties between the people of Malaysia and South Africa pre-date the formal establishment of diplomatic relations in 1993. These links can be traced back to the 17th century when large numbers of Malays arrived on the shores of South Africa. Today, their descendants, the Cape Malays, have become an important part of South African society. Malaysia achieved its independence in 1957.

“We were uncompromising in rejecting Apartheid, and since then, Malaysia’s relations with South Africa have flourished by leaps and bounds,” said the Deputy High Commissioner of Malaysia.

Today, both nations are sovereign and successful states that cherish peace, stability, justice, diversity, and democracy. While relations are strong, there is still much to gain by continuing to work hand in hand for mutual benefit.

In terms of economic relations, South Africa and Malaysia are important partners. South Africa is Malaysia’s largest trading partner in Africa, with total bilateral trade in 2023 approaching 2 billion USD. Malaysia was once one of the largest sources of foreign direct investment in South Africa, particularly in the decade following the end of Apartheid. While the landscape has changed somewhat, Malaysia remains committed to promoting further investment from Malaysian businesses in South Africa.

Cooperation extends beyond trade, with strong collaboration in fields such as tourism and culture, defence, education, Islamic affairs, and people-to-people exchanges. Malaysia and South Africa also share common positions on multilateral issues, with both countries staunchly opposed to unilateralism and the use of force to settle international disputes. Global efforts are also aligned on key issues such as climate change and sustainable development. On 11 July 2023, South Africa became the first African country to be granted ASEAN sectoral dialogue partner status, marking a new era of meaningful cooperation between South Africa and Asia.

Ambassador Zodwa Lallie congratulated Malaysia on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, stating:

“South Africa values its historic partnership of solidarity with Malaysia and is committed to continuing to strengthen our mutually beneficial bilateral relations.”

South Africa seeks to enhance its cooperation with Malaysia and align efforts with growth and strategic objectives, in line with South Africa’s seventh administration. Key priorities include inclusive growth, job creation, addressing the high cost of living, and building a capable, ethical, and developmental state.

Of particular interest to South Africa is engaging with Malaysia, as the leading global Halal hub, to produce Halal products in South Africa for export to the 1.4 billion Muslim consumers globally. With a population of over 500 million Muslims on the African continent alone, this cooperation offers a mutually beneficial opportunity for trade and investment, particularly under the auspices of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.

As of 2023, bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at approximately 39 billion Rand, representing an increase from 36.9 billion Rand in 2022.

As countries of the Global South, Malaysia and South Africa should continue to collaborate in the multilateral domain to support the emergence of a more equitable international order.

Guests raised a toast to the continued friendship between Malaysia and South Africa.

by Marion Kate