The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tan Sri Zohari Abdul, who is on an official visit to ASEAN member countries, has met with Cambodia's top leaders.
The Malaysian Parliament today issued a statement saying that Zohari paid a courtesy call on Cambodian National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, Deputy Prime Minister Dinesh Savun, and Senate President Hun Sen.
“This visit is part of an ASEAN tour aimed at enhancing preparations for the 46th ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) hosted by the Malaysian Parliament this year.”
In the meeting with Khuon Sudary, the two leaders discussed several regional issues of mutual concern, including deepening cooperation among ASEAN parliaments through exchanges between parliamentarians.
Additionally, they also explored ways to strengthen Malaysia-Cambodia bilateral relations and the important role of legislative diplomacy in addressing global challenges such as food security, renewable energy, and digital innovation.
The statement said: “The meeting with Hun Sen provided an opportunity for in-depth discussions on consolidating diplomatic and legislative relations between the two countries.”
“Both leaders agreed on the promotion of exchange programs between Malaysian and Cambodian students to enhance understanding and appreciation of each other's history and cultural heritage. This effort can not only strengthen people-to-people ties but also foster a spirit of unity and deep understanding among ASEAN's younger generations.”
In addition, during the meeting with Dinesh Savun, both sides focused on regional strategic issues, including peace and security in ASEAN and cooperation in the field of sustainable development.
“They also recognized the importance of close relations between administrative and legislative bodies in achieving regional agendas. Zohari also suggested to the Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister that Malaysia and Cambodia jointly develop the tourism sector as a measure to strengthen the economic and cultural relations between the two countries.”
“By fully showcasing their unique tourist destinations and rich cultural heritage, this cooperation can enhance the attractiveness of the ASEAN region as a global preferred tourist destination.”
The statement mentioned that Zohari, who also serves as the Chair of the 46th AIPA, emphasized Malaysia's commitment to ensuring the success of AIPA and invited Cambodian leaders to visit Kuala Lumpur in September this year.