Inside full deals sealed between Ruto and Malaysian prime minister
By Faith Lagat, November 24, 2025Kenya and Malaysia have elevated their 60-year diplomatic relationship to a higher level of economic and development cooperation following Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s two-day official visit to Kenya.
President William Ruto, speaking after bilateral talks and the signing of several agreements at State House, Nairobi, described the visit as a turning point in the two nations’ relations.
“We greatly value the 60 years of friendship and cooperation we have enjoyed with Malaysia, ties that have been further strengthened by the State Visit of His Excellency Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to Kenya,” President Ruto took to his X post dated November 24, 2025.
Enhanced connectivity and tourism boost
During the visit, the two leaders oversaw the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement that removes restrictions on the number of flights between the two countries, and a Memorandum of Understanding on tourism promotion.
“During this visit, we took significant steps to deepen our bilateral relations by signing a Bilateral Air Services Agreement to expand connectivity and ease travel, and a Memorandum of Understanding to promote tourism between our two nations.”
The agreements are expected to facilitate increased direct air links, boost tourist arrivals, and strengthen people-to-people connections, providing fresh opportunities for cultural exchange and business travel between Kenya and Malaysia.
Trade expansion and urban cooperation
President Ruto further announced the conclusion of two additional instruments aimed at boosting trade and urban collaboration.
“We also signed a trade promotion agreement between the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Malaysia’s National Chamber of Commerce, and a Letter of Intent establishing cooperation between the cities of Nairobi and Kuala Lumpur in areas of mutual interest,” he revealed.
The agreements are set to expand trade volumes, stimulate investment opportunities, and open new channels for knowledge exchange in urban planning, housing, and infrastructure development. President Ruto noted that Malaysia’s economic journey serves as an inspiration for Kenya’s own transformation agenda.
“Malaysia’s remarkable transformation from an agricultural economy to one of the leading Asian economic giants offers valuable lessons for Kenya as we pursue our own development and industrialisation agenda,” read the post.
The partnership
Ruto underscored the significance of the visit as a demonstration of the benefits of international collaboration.
“His Excellency’s visit reaffirms the vast potential that exists when nations share a vision, exchange expertise, and work together for the prosperity of their people. It brings home what we can achieve through partnership, solidarity, and mutual trust,” he said.
The Malaysian Prime Minister’s programme included a State dinner hosted by President Ruto, a formal welcome ceremony with full military honours, and delegation-level talks.