President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced today that the Maldives and Malaysia have decided to enhance collaboration in halal tourism.

During the joint press statement after the official talks from Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's current visit to the Maldives, the President remarked that tourism acts as a "bridge" connecting the citizens of both nations and that there is mutual agreement to enhance collaboration in promoting tourism.

"The President remarked that we consented to enhance collaboration in promoting tourism, alongside boosting cooperation in developing the halal industry, cultural sector, and Muslim-friendly travel."

He mentioned that Malaysia and the Maldives will collaborate to boost the number of tourists visiting each other's countries. The President also mentioned that both countries will work together to strengthen interpersonal connections and foster eco-tourism.

In the discussions, it was also decided to collaborate on a larger scale in trade and economic areas and to initiate necessary talks to create a preferential trade agreement, he stated.

He added that if such an agreement is reached, it will create more opportunities for the companies of both nations.

"The President mentioned that he encouraged the Malaysian government and its companies to consider the investment prospects present in the Maldives."

The particular sectors he encouraged investigating for investment prospects are renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and Islamic finance.