Malaysia to Import $200m Halal Meat from Pakistan, PM Shehbaz Calls it a Welcome Step

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hailed Malaysia’s announcement to import Halal meat worth $200 million from Pakistan, calling it a “welcome step” that will open new doors for trade, investment, and bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

The announcement was made during PM Shehbaz’s official visit to Malaysia, where he met with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya for high-level bilateral talks.

Strengthening Pakistan–Malaysia Partnership

During a joint press conference, PM Shehbaz said the decision would boost Pakistan’s Halal industry and help strengthen the longstanding economic and cultural partnership with Malaysia.

“We had a most productive exchange of views on enhancing our historic ties, especially in trade, investment, defence, climate, education, and tourism,” PM Shehbaz shared on social media platform X.

He added that both leaders also discussed regional and global developments, including peace in the Middle East and South Asia, reaffirming their resolve to work together for “peace, progress, and prosperity.”

Halal Meat Exports: $200 Million Boost

The Malaysian Prime Minister expressed strong interest in meat imports from Pakistan, which could initially be worth $200 million. PM Shehbaz assured that Pakistan would strictly follow Halal certification standards, market regulations, and food safety protocols required by Malaysian authorities.

“This partnership will not only fulfill the $200 million target but can grow into much larger trade volumes in the future,” Shehbaz said.

Praise for Malaysia’s Development

PM Shehbaz described Malaysia as Pakistan’s “second home” and lauded Anwar Ibrahim’s leadership, vision, and economic reforms.

“You have turned Malaysia into one of the strongest economies in the region, and Pakistan hopes to learn from your experience in technology, artificial intelligence, and economic growth,” he remarked.

He emphasized Pakistan’s willingness to work on joint ventures and mutually beneficial projects, combining expertise from both sides.

Pakistanis in Malaysia: A Strong Bridge

The prime minister highlighted the role of over 150,000 Pakistanis living in Malaysia, who are contributing to nation-building efforts.

He also underscored the potential of Pakistan’s youth, saying that with proper investment in modern technology and innovation, they could become the country’s “true builders of the future.”

Cultural and Intellectual Exchange

PM Shehbaz also attended the launch of the Urdu translation of PM Anwar Ibrahim’s book Script, which focuses on sustainability, innovation, and development.

Both leaders reflected on the philosophy of Allama Iqbal, agreeing that his message of faith, perseverance, and self-renewal continues to inspire the Muslim world.

Malaysia Appreciates Pakistan’s Role on Palestine

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Pakistan’s clear stance on Palestine and Gaza, saying he was “extremely appreciative” of Islamabad’s support for a peaceful resolution.

He noted Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to import more Pakistani rice and Halal products, while encouraging cooperation in STEM education, IT, and science and technology.

Guard of Honour and Official Welcome

PM Shehbaz was given a guard of honour at the Perdana Putra Complex, where Malaysia’s prime minister’s office is located.

The two leaders later witnessed the signing of several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) to expand cooperation in trade, IT, energy, infrastructure, digital economy, and education.

A Strong Strategic Partnership

According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the visit reflects the enduring strategic partnership between Pakistan and Malaysia, rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and common interests.

In recent years, Pakistan’s investment in Malaysia has reached nearly $400 million, while both countries continue to collaborate on addressing challenges faced by the Islamic world, including Islamophobia.