ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP): High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, His Excellency Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, has delivered an academic discourse at the National University of Modern Languages (NUML) in Islamabad, engaging with students and faculty on Malaysia’s development trajectory and bilateral relations with Pakistan.
The High Commissioner was accompanied by Mr Mohammad Syafik Firdaus Bin Hasbullah, Counsellor, and Mr Muhammad Zulasri Bin Rosdi, First Secretary of the High Commission, said a release issued here on Monday.
He was received by Maj Gen (Retd) Shahid Mahmood Kayani HI(M), Rector of NUML. The session was attended by faculty members, staff, and a large number of students.
During his address, Ambassador Dato’ Azhar provided a comprehensive overview of Malaysia’s historical development and highlighted the strong and longstanding bilateral relations between Malaysia and Pakistan.
He elaborated on Malaysia’s key economic sectors, including palm oil, semiconductors, aerospace, and the halal industry, underscoring the country’s steady economic progress and diversification.
The High Commissioner also spoke about Malaysia’s role as Chair of ASEAN in 2025, outlining the country’s priorities in promoting regional stability, economic growth, and enhanced engagement between ASEAN and South Asia.
He emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to fostering multilateral cooperation and strengthening partnerships within the region.
Highlighting Malaysia’s foreign policy priorities, Ambassador Dato’ Azhar drew attention to the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP), which plays a significant role in capacity-building and development cooperation.
He informed participants that approximately 800 Pakistani officials have benefited from MTCP courses in Malaysia, reflecting the depth of collaboration between the two countries.
Education featured prominently in the discourse, with the High Commissioner encouraging Pakistani students to explore higher education opportunities in Malaysia.
He noted that Malaysian universities offer internationally recognized academic standards and a conducive learning environment. As of 2026, nearly 7,000 Pakistani students are pursuing their studies in Malaysian institutions.
In his vote of thanks, Brig. Muhammad Rafique Khan, Director General of NUML, warmly welcomed the High Commissioner and expressed gratitude for his distinguished visit. He described the occasion as historic, marking the first visit of a Malaysian High Commissioner to NUML since its establishment.
He commended the Ambassador’s insightful address on Pakistan-Malaysia relations, noting its alignment with NUML’s mission to promote languages and intercultural understanding.
Brig. Khan reaffirmed the university’s commitment to strengthening academic collaboration with Malaysian universities through joint research initiatives, exchange programs, seminars, and publications.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Malaysian High Commission, NUML faculty, and students in making the event meaningful and productive.
The event concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, followed by the serving of Malaysian national dishes, including Nasi Lemak, Mee Goreng Mamak, and Karipap pastries.
The session formed part of the High Commission’s ongoing efforts to further strengthen bilateral ties through educational, cultural, and economic engagement, while fostering closer people-to-people connections between Malaysia and Pakistan.