Wellington: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has described people-to-people ties as the ‘glue’ that binds the long-standing partnership between Malaysia and New Zealand. He noted that thousands of Malaysian students have pursued their studies in New Zealand over the years, and that tourism between the two countries continues to flourish.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized the significance of these exchanges at the ASEAN-New Zealand Business Council (ANZBC) Engagement, stating that they are crucial for holding economic ties together, building trust, and creating long-term understanding. As the current ASEAN Chair, he highlighted Malaysia’s invitation to New Zealand to collaborate in shaping a more human-centred and future-ready ASEAN.

Ahmad Zahid urged a focus not only on expanding trade but also on fostering a region that embraces change, innovation, and inclusion. The ANZBC Engagement, jointly organised by the High Commission of Malaysia, ANZBC, and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, aims to deepen bilateral economic ties, explore trade and investment opportunities, and strengthen business-to-business networks between ASEAN and New Zealand.

Ahmad Zahid arrived in New Zealand earlier today to commence his five-day working visit. His itinerary includes meetings with Governor-General Dame Cindy Kiro, Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour, Foreign Minister Winston Peters, Maori Development Minister Tama Potaka, and Agriculture, Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay.

Additionally, his programs feature a visit to the National Crisis Management Centre, a roundtable session with the Maori community in Rotorua, and a gathering with approximately 250 Malaysians residing in New Zealand. The last official visit to New Zealand by a Malaysian top leader was in March 2005 by the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, who was then Prime Minister.