By: Dr Rozita Che Omar
This year is yet another milestone in our bilateral relations, marking the 50-year celebrative anniversary between Mexico and Malaysia. Over the past five decades, both countries have worked to solidify strong foundations of friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding, enabling their relationship to grow in various sectors, from trade and culture to education and diplomacy. Since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1974, Mexico and Malaysia have consistently enhanced their collaboration in key priority areas for mutual benefit and global engagement. Both nations are active partners on the international stage, participating together in multilateral forums like the United Nations and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), aiming to increase their influence on world affairs.
The future of Mexico-Malaysia relations looks very promising, as both countries continue to build on shared values and aspirations. In recent years, bilateral trade has thrived, opening numerous opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs in both countries. Notably, Malaysia has emerged as one of Mexico’s top ten trading partners, with bilateral trade reaching an impressive USD15 billion in 2022. This trade volume reflects the importance of their economic partnership and the potential for further growth.
Additionally, Mexico and Malaysia have significant opportunities for cooperation in various technological fields. Both nations can collaborate in sectors like smart factories, robotics production, semiconductors and electronics, renewable energy, aggrotech, biotechnology and healthcare, aerospace, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, leveraging their growing innovation ecosystems and strategic geographic positions. Such collaborations hold the potential to boost industrial capabilities and drive economic development in both countries.
Beyond trade, educational and cultural diplomacy play vital roles in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Mexico and Malaysia. Education has become a focal point of collaboration, with academic partnerships and joint projects flourishing between Mexican and Malaysian universities, particularly the renowned Universiti Malaya. These initiatives promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation, ultimately fostering long-term partnerships that will benefit future generations.
The Embassy of Mexico in Malaysia has been instrumental in supporting educational efforts, especially through its contribution to Universiti Malaya’s Bachelor Degree in Spanish Language and Linguistics. By promoting student immersion in Spanish language and culture through embassy events, the embassy has enriched the educational experience of many students. Additionally, the embassy has generously donated 300 books worth RM43,000 to the Centre of Latin American Studies (CLAS) at Universiti Malaya, which has become a prominent institution for knowledge and cultural exchange between Southeast Asia and Latin America, now housing the largest collection of Spanish books in the region.
Some Universiti Malaya students have also had the opportunity to complete their internships at the Mexican Embassy, gaining invaluable experience in diplomatic work, international relations, and consular services. These internships help students develop essential soft skills like teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and intercultural communication, preparing them for future careers and strengthening ties between the peoples of Mexico and Malaysia.
Mexico and Malaysia share several cultural similarities rooted in their rich histories and diverse populations. Mutual exchanges, often celebrated through vibrant festivals, exhibitions, and cultural programs, have played a crucial role in bringing the citizens of both nations closer. The art, music, and cuisine of Mexico and Malaysia have been showcased, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of each other’s heritage. Cultural exchange through education, culinary traditions, and the arts has been fundamental in strengthening ties between the two countries.
As both nations commemorate this significant anniversary, it reflects not only their enduring partnership but also their shared vision for a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future. This 50th anniversary offers both Mexico and Malaysia an opportunity to reflect on their strong historical relationship while charting a course for deeper collaboration in various sectors moving forward.
The bilateral relationship between Mexico and Malaysia continues to evolve as a dynamic partnership driven by shared interests in trade, education, culture, and multilateral diplomacy. Looking ahead, there is considerable potential for both countries to further expand their cooperation, ultimately enriching the lives of their citizens while contributing to a more interconnected world.
The author is Head, Department of Asian and European Languages, Faculty of Languages and Linguistics, Universiti Malaya and President, Association of Spanish Teachers and Students in Malaysia. She can be contacted via email at rozita@um.edu.my