Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday commended Kenya’s strides in digital transformation and technological development, while pledging a strategic partnership focused on innovation and high-tech collaboration between the two nations.
Speaking during a Statehouse meeting with President William Ruto, he highlighted that the partnership would extend beyond traditional sectors such as agriculture to areas critical for future economies, including digital technology, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and energy transition.
“I think you can share experiences through university collaboration, through research, and various informed investments, and I think there is absolutely no reason why a country like Kenya with such enormous potential and Malaysia cannot effectively collaborate and benefit from each other’s strengths,” he noted.
He also praised President Ruto's effort in the housing sector, which will see millions of Kenyans getting affordable houses.
“Enormous strikes you have made in the housing sector, for example, which is most commendable. I do think many countries, including Malaysia, have embarked that fast and that effective because of your passion to provide housing for the people, particularly the poor, of Kenya. So congratulations,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Anwar emphasized that technological advancement and digital transformation were central to Kenya’s growth.
He pointed out the importance of leveraging knowledge, innovation, and digital infrastructure to enhance competitiveness and regional influence.
“The advantage of resistance like this is that you prepare, you learn, relearn, the new ventures, the new initiatives, and I have great belief that Kenya will be one of the stars in Africa,” he said.
He also underlined the importance of timely execution and showcasing results.
“We will make sure that proper execution of the decisions which must be made earlier, December, January, we must showcase that we can do it,” PM Anwar said, highlighting the role of digital initiatives in strengthening economic collaboration.
The Malaysian leader encouraged collaboration through universities and research institutions, as well as tech-driven investments, to accelerate Kenya’s transition into a knowledge-based economy.
“Through digital transformation, AI, and semiconductors, we can create opportunities that benefit both our countries while positioning Africa as a hub for innovation,” he said.
On international issues, PM Anwar highlighted Kenya and Malaysia’s shared commitment to independent, solution-driven approaches.
“No amount of acting about human rights and democracy by those in power over the West can change the position. Africa is a new Africa,” he said, emphasizing that technological advancement and governance go hand in hand in shaping a confident, self-reliant continent.
PM Anwar concluded by reinforcing trust between Kenya and Malaysia, highlighting the potential of digital collaboration to transform economies and improve citizens’ welfare.
“You are able to jump us from this short, but very meaningful friendship, trust, confidence,” he said, reaffrming the role of technology as a cornerstone of bilateral relations.
