Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia, currently the sixth largest exporter of semiconductors globally, can serve as Kyrgyz Republic’s gateway to the ASEAN region, stated Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong. In exchange, Malaysia can leverage the Kyrgyz Republic as an entry point to Central Asia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kyrgyz Republic, a landlocked nation bordered by Kazakhstan, China, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, was Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner among Central Asian countries last year, with bilateral trade amounting to US$8.74 million (RM40 million). Liew highlighted Malaysia’s evolution from a trading nation to a sophisticated middle technology nation, noting its status as a major semiconductor exporter. He emphasized the non-aligned geopolitical stance shared by Malaysia and the Kyrgyz Republic, which he believes is crucial in the current transition from a unipolar to a multipolar world order.

Liew underscored Malaysia’s dedication to fostering stronger ties with Kyrgyz Republic, expressing confidence that both nations could explore mutual opportunities for a more prosperous future. The meeting between Kyrgyz Republic’s President Sadyr Zhaparov and Malaysian business communities was part of his official visit to Malaysia, aimed at enhancing business cooperation and investment between the two countries.

The meeting included four document exchange ceremonies involving Malaysian companies and the republic, focusing on sectors like mining and livestock. President Zhaparov, who arrived for a two-day official visit, was warmly received at the Perdana Putra Complex and engaged in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. His visit also included a tour of the Malaysian Parliament before he concluded his visit and returned home.