The UAE-Malaysia non-oil trade hit $2.5 billion in H1 2024, up 7 percent from 2023
UAE and Malaysia signed an MoU to enhance collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), focusing on community safety and operational efficiency. The agreement was witnessed by His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, alongside Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, with H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi. also in attendance.
Strengthening security and efficiency through AI
The partnership is set to harness AI and advanced data analytics to promote community safety, enhance national security, and improve operational efficiencies.
Under the MoU, the UAE and Malaysia will pursue collaborative efforts to advance technical cooperation in several crucial areas. This includes the development of AI-enhanced national security systems, the establishment of high-performance computing data centers and national security operations centers, improvements in customs tax collection, and the enhancement of operational efficiencies.
The Investment MoU was officially signed by Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, UAE minister of Investment, and Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Malaysia’s minister of Home Affairs.
Read more: UAE, Malaysia sign CEPA as non-oil bilateral trade grows to $4 billion
Enhancing bilateral relations and technological advancements
During the MoU signing ceremony, discussions focused on ways to fortify bilateral political and economic relations between the UAE and Malaysia. The dialogue also touched upon recent advancements in utilizing cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence across various sectors, particularly those that positively influence living standards and enhance quality of life.
Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi remarked, “Our collaboration with Malaysia underscores the strength of our bilateral ties and our shared commitment to advancing technological innovation in support of sustainable development. This Memorandum of Understanding represents a significant step toward enhancing cooperation in artificial intelligence and operational efficiency, contributing to the well-being of our societies and improving quality of life for our communities. The MoU reflects both nations’ focus on establishing meaningful, future-oriented partnerships that create mutual benefits and contribute to addressing global challenges. We are confident that this new partnership will deepen the connections between the UAE and Malaysia, delivering significant long-term benefits for both countries.”
Saifuddin Nasution Ismail added, “This partnership with the UAE represents a crucial step in advancing Malaysia’s ambitions to become a key player in the global AI landscape. By leveraging cutting-edge AI and advanced data analytics, we aim to address complex challenges, including public safety, while driving greater operational efficiencies. The UAE, recognised for its significant strides in AI and technological innovation, further strengthens this collaboration by bringing its expertise and advanced capabilities into the partnership. It highlights the strong relationship between our nations and reflects our shared commitment to innovation and mutual progress. We look forward to achieving remarkable outcomes together.”
A milestone in economic cooperation
The investment MoU signifies a pivotal advancement following the confirmation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in October 2024. This milestone builds on the robust economic relationship between the UAE and Malaysia, which saw non-oil trade reach $2.5 billion in the first half of 2024—a 7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Malaysia stands as the UAE’s 12th-largest trading partner in Asia and ranks fifth among ASEAN nations. Simultaneously, the UAE is Malaysia’s second-largest trade partner in the Arab world, accounting for 32 percent of Malaysia’s trade with the region.
