Strengthening Regional Partnerships
by: BTM - Sun, 07 Sep 2025
As Malaysia chairs ASEAN in 2025, His Excellency Dato’ Shazryll Zahiran, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Malaysia to the Kingdom of Bahrain, speaks to Kristian Harrison about diplomacy, trade, tourism and strengthening Malaysia-Bahrain relations.
As you celebrate your fourth year in Bahrain, how has this journey been for you personally and for your family?
This journey has been incredibly special for me and my family. From the moment we arrived, Bahrain embraced us with unparalleled warmth and genuine friendship. My son has grown up here, my wife has forged close ties and built a strong community, and together we’ve become part of the rich tapestry of Bahraini life. These experiences have created cherished memories and an enduring bond with the people of Bahrain, one built on mutual respect, shared values and lasting connections.
Malaysia is currently chairing ASEAN. What are the key priorities for 2025 and how is Malaysia using this role to influence the region?
As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia has embraced a pivotal leadership role, tasked with developing innovative strategies to guide the region forward. At a time when ASEAN continues to grow in political and economic importance, we are proactively planning for future challenges while ensuring sustainable development. At the 46th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, we introduced the Kuala Lumpur ASEAN Declaration 2045, which was endorsed by all ASEAN leaders. This roadmap sets out a bold, vibrant and strategically vital framework to ensure member nations benefit from emerging opportunities while protecting regional security. It reflects ASEAN’s collective commitment to prosperity, unity and resilience as we navigate an increasingly competitive global environment.
How has Bahrain contributed to strengthening ASEAN-GCC relations, and what opportunities does this create for Malaysia?
Bahrain continues to demonstrate its commitment to deepening ties between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and ASEAN. A defining milestone was Bahrain’s historic signing of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in 2019, making it the first GCC country to do so and underscoring its intent to be a reliable partner to ASEAN. Bahrain also hosted the first ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and participated in the ASEAN-GCC Summit, represented by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. This year saw the landmark inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, a major development that strengthens the economic and geopolitical link between Southeast Asia and the Middle East. These milestones create an opportunity for Malaysia and Bahrain to work together as economic gateways for both regions.
You previously highlighted food security and renewable energy as key areas for cooperation. Has there been progress on these fronts?
Absolutely. Bahrain and Malaysia share common aspirations in renewable energy development and climate change mitigation. Following the visit of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Bahrain in February, both nations committed to advancing joint initiatives in the renewable energy sector and exploring new avenues for investment. Beyond green energy, we are collaborating closely in Islamic banking and fintech, sectors where Bahrain’s expertise is internationally recognised. These partnerships represent more than economic cooperation; they build a stronger framework for innovation and sustainable growth across Malaysia, Bahrain, ASEAN and the GCC.
How significant was the Malaysian Prime Minister’s visit to Bahrain?
This visit was truly historic. It marked the first official visit by a Malaysian Prime Minister since the establishment of our Embassy and came at a critical time, as Malaysia chairs ASEAN and undergoes transformative domestic developments. The visit highlighted our shared aspirations for economic growth and peaceful coexistence. It provided a platform to strengthen our bilateral partnership while deepening collaboration on regional challenges, including efforts to promote stability and peace in the Middle East.
Tourism is a major focus for Malaysia. What initiatives are being implemented to attract visitors from the GCC, particularly Bahrain?
Following the Prime Minister’s visit, we have significantly intensified tourism promotion efforts, especially with a focus on Bahrain and the wider GCC. A key part of this strategy is improving connectivity, with advanced discussions underway between the airlines of both countries to resume direct flight routes. As we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, we are optimistic that these links will encourage more Bahraini citizens and expatriates to explore Malaysia’s natural beauty, cultural diversity and world-class attractions. At the same time, we encourage Malaysians to visit Bahrain, which already serves as an important transit hub for Hajj and Umrah and is increasingly becoming a destination in its own right.
Are there active discussions with Gulf Air about establishing direct flights to Kuala Lumpur?
Yes. Gulf Air already services key Southeast Asian destinations like Bangkok and Singapore, but the absence of a direct link between Bahrain and Malaysia represents a significant missed opportunity. The Prime Minister’s visit highlighted Bahrain’s potential as a hub for Malaysian business expansion into the Middle East, which has greatly increased investor interest. Establishing direct flights would strengthen connectivity, enhance tourism flows and provide a boost to bilateral trade. We are hopeful this will be realised soon.
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What is Malaysia promoting alongside chairing ASEAN this year?
Malaysia celebrates its 68th Independence Day this year, marking a renewed sense of confidence in our economic recovery and political stability following the pandemic. Under the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim and Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia is gaining enhanced international recognition. This forward momentum is underpinned by the new 13th Malaysia National Plan, an ambitious national plan aimed at elevating Malaysia’s global profile while strengthening peaceful coexistence and international connectivity. Our recent role in mediating regional disputes further underscores Malaysia’s growing influence and commitment to fostering stability, particularly as ASEAN Chair.
What role does the Malaysian community in Bahrain play in strengthening ties?
I am deeply proud of our Malaysian community here in Bahrain. They are true cultural ambassadors, contributing significantly to sectors including business, education, healthcare and the arts. Beyond their professional achievements, they are instrumental in fostering stronger people-to-people connections, helping to build trust and understanding between our two nations. As we mark National Day and Malaysia Day, we celebrate their dedication and the positive image they project on behalf of Malaysia.
Looking back at four years as Ambassador, what do you see as your biggest achievements?
Last year marked 50 years of Malaysia-Bahrain relations, a milestone we celebrated with several initiatives. Iconic Bahraini landmarks were illuminated in the colours of the Malaysian flag, symbolising our enduring friendship. We also launched the “Bringing Malaysia to You” programme, which showcased products from 15 Malaysian SMEs. Many of these products were introduced to the Bahraini market for the first time, gaining significant traction, and several businesses are now exploring the possibility of establishing manufacturing plants locally. These initiatives highlight our progress in deepening economic and cultural cooperation.
As your tenure progresses, what do you hope to accomplish next?
My priority is to see the projects we’ve initiated not only continue but accelerate, building on the strong foundation we’ve laid over the past four years. One of my personal goals is to witness the launch of direct flight services between Malaysia and Bahrain before the end of my tenure. Such connectivity would symbolise a new chapter in our partnership, facilitating greater opportunities for trade, investment and cultural exchange.
Finally, what message would you like to share with Malaysians in Bahrain on the occasion of Malaysian Independence Day?
To my fellow Malaysians in Bahrain, you are the true ambassadors of our culture, professionalism and values. Your contributions make me proud and I encourage you to continue representing the very best of Malaysia. Cherish the bonds you’ve built here and continue fostering positive connections within Bahrain’s welcoming community. I also extend my deepest gratitude to the esteemed Bahraini leadership and its warm-hearted people for their unwavering kindness, steadfast support and remarkable hospitality extended to me, my family and to my fellow Malaysian community.
