Enhanced Cooperation in Religious and Economic Sectors

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that Malaysia and Senegal are actively working to deepen their bilateral partnership across multiple strategic sectors, including commerce, investment opportunities, haj pilgrimage services, waqf religious endowments, and halal industry development. These sectors represent areas with substantial potential for collaborative growth and mutual benefit between the two nations.

High-Level Diplomatic Discussions

The Prime Minister revealed that these cooperation areas formed the central focus of discussions during a diplomatic meeting with Senegal’s Minister of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Yassine Fall, which took place earlier today. During their courtesy call, both leaders engaged in comprehensive dialogue covering various aspects of bilateral relations and shared interests. The conversations extended beyond economic cooperation to include exchanges of perspectives on regional and international matters of mutual importance, particularly focusing on current developments affecting the Middle East region and the African continent.

Official Visit and Diplomatic Exchange

Minister Fall’s presence in Malaysia represents part of a two-day official visit that commenced today, serving as a reciprocal gesture following Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan’s official diplomatic mission to Senegal in May 2024. This visit demonstrates the ongoing commitment of both countries to maintain regular high-level diplomatic engagement and strengthen their partnership through continued dialogue and cooperation.

Significant Trade Performance

The commercial relationship between Malaysia and Senegal achieved remarkable success in 2024, with bilateral trade volumes reaching a total value of RM1.37 billion. This substantial trade figure reflects the strong economic ties between the two nations and demonstrates the potential for further expansion of commercial activities. Malaysian exports to Senegal dominated the trade relationship, accounting for RM1.35 billion of the total trade volume, while imports from Senegal to Malaysia were valued at RM14.1 million.

Strategic Partnership Development

The emphasis on cooperation in haj, waqf, and halal industry sectors highlights the shared Islamic values and cultural connections between Malaysia and Senegal. These areas of collaboration not only strengthen religious and cultural ties but also present significant economic opportunities for both countries. Malaysia’s expertise in halal certification and Islamic financial services, combined with Senegal’s position as a key West African nation, creates a foundation for expanding these specialized sectors across broader regional markets.

Original Article:

Ibrahim, A. (2025, August 11). Malaysia–Senegal trade hit RM1.37 billion last year as nations deepen ties in haj, waqf and halal industry. Malay Mail. https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2025/08/11/anwar-malaysia-senegal-trade-hit-rm137-billion-last-year-as-nations-deepen-ties-in-haj-waqf-and-halal-industry/187211