Marcos heads to Malaysia to tap into Halal industry potential
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Tuesday flew to Malaysia for a three-day state visit, which will focus on identifying new areas of synergies such as the Halal industry, and renewing partnerships in agriculture and digital economy.
Marcos called the visit—his 14th overseas trip since assuming office—an “opportune time” to harness the potentials of a revitalized relationship between the Philippines and Malaysia.
“My visit will focus on the renewed partnerships in the fields of agriculture and food security, digital economy, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, as well as explore new avenues for cooperation, particularly in areas of the Halal Industry and Islamic banking,” the chief executive said.
He noted that Malaysia is one of the global leaders in the Halal industry, and that his visit “aims to forge synergies with Malaysia for the Philippines to enjoy a share of this market.” Malaysia was the Philippines' 10th biggest trading partner in 2022.
Marcos’ trip was upon the invitation of Malaysian King Al-Sultan Abdullah. He will meet with the Malaysian king as well as Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Marcos and Anwar met in March when the Malaysian leader visited the country, and agreed to bolster the political and security cooperation of the two countries.
He will also meet with business leaders and Filipinos in Malaysia.
Marcos will be accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, some Cabinet secretaries and Filipino businessmen.
The chief executive logged 13 overseas trips—or an average of one trip a month—in his first year in office. In his second State of the Nation Address, Marcos said these travels generated P3.9 trillion in investment pledges. He added that these pledges can turn into 175,000 jobs. — Gaea Katreena Cabico
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