From Malay Mail · · 1m 20s
The King wants Putin in Malaysia
Malaysia's King has been to Russia three times in two years. Now Anwar is asking Putin to make the trip the other way.
In brief
Malaysia's King has been to Russia three times in two years. Now Anwar is asking Putin to make the trip the other way. The Malaysia-Russia relationship is being run through the palace, and the next move is Putin's to make. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Regards from the palace
Anwar Ibrahim sat down with Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of the 18th Brics Leaders' Summit in New Delhi, and opened by passing on a personal message from Malaysia's King.
“Sultan Ibrahim sends his personal regards”
The invitation stands
Anwar then repeated Sultan Ibrahim's invitation for Putin to make a state visit to Malaysia. The word used was reiterated, so this is not the first time the ask has been made.
Selling it as a new chapter
Anwar framed the proposed visit as a turning point rather than a courtesy call, describing the relationship as close, mature and useful to both sides.
“Insya-Allah, this visit will open a new chapter in the increasingly close, mature, and mutually beneficial relationship between Malaysia and Russia”
A King since 2024
Sultan Ibrahim ascended the federal throne on January 31, 2024. Much of Malaysia's warming with Moscow since then has run through him, not only through Putrajaya.
Three trips to Russia
He made a state visit in August 2025, a special visit in January 2026, and travelled to Moscow in May for Russia's Victory Day. The traffic has all gone one way so far.
What matters most
The Malaysia-Russia relationship is being run through the palace, and the next move is Putin's to make.
