Anwar holds talks with IsDB Chairman on MSME sharing

Malaysia ready to share MSME empowerment expertise with IsDB member nations, says Anwar after talks with bank chief

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to expanding international economic cooperation and sharing its development expertise, particularly in empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), across Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) member states.

In a Facebook update published this evening, Anwar shared details of his meeting with IsDB Chairman Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser, noting that the engagement reflects international confidence in Malaysia’s economic governance and strategic direction.

Anwar highlighted that Malaysia’s track record in strengthening MSMEs has served as a cornerstone for economic resilience and job creation nationwide—a model that can be adapted across the wider Islamic world.

“Malaysia is recognized for its experience in empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), strengthening economic resilience and generating job opportunities,” Anwar said. “This expertise and experience has the potential to be utilized by IsDB member countries.”

Handout photograph showing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim shaking hands with Islamic Development Bank Chairman Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser. — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim (left) shakes hands with Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Chairman Dr. Muhammad Sulaiman Al Jasser during a bilateral meeting, in this handout photo obtained on October 20, 2026. Anwar highlighted Malaysia’s willingness to share its technical expertise in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise (MSME) empowerment with IsDB member states while strengthening the IsDB Excellence Centre in Kuala Lumpur as a regional knowledge hub. (Photo: Handout via Facebook/Anwar Ibrahim/PMO via The Malaysia Times)

Strengthening the IsDB Excellence Centre in KL

To facilitate broader knowledge exchange, the Prime Minister welcomed plans to enhance the operational role of the IsDB Excellence Centre located in Kuala Lumpur, positioning it as a primary hub for technical cooperation.

“I emphasized Malaysia’s willingness to share expertise and expand development cooperation at the international level,” Anwar noted. “In this regard, I welcome the efforts to empower the IsDB Excellence Centre in Kuala Lumpur as a hub for knowledge and expertise sharing.”

Empowering youth expertise globally

Anwar added that the strategic partnership with the multilateral development bank will bolster Malaysia’s standing as a reliable global partner while creating platforms for young local professionals.

“God willing, this close cooperation will expand Malaysia’s role as a credible development partner, while bringing the country’s youth expertise to the global stage,” he concluded.

— The Malaysia Times

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