WITH common positions at the multilateral level and a potential for enhanced trade cooperation at the bilateral level, Malaysia is looking to forge even closer with Guyana, in such areas as tourism, Information Communication Technology (ICT), education and construction.

This is according to newly accredited Malaysian High Commissioner to Guyana, Ms Dato Sudha Devi Vasudevan, who on Friday presented her letters of credence to President Donald Ramotar.
The existing relationship between Guyana and Malaysia has been characterised by shared common positions on political, economic and social issues at various international forums like the United Nations (UN), the Commonwealth, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Non-Aligned Movement.
Bilaterally, Guyana has opened the door to Malaysian investors, and while the level of trade between the two has been relatively low, the Malaysian Government believes that the prospects for expansion are positive.
President Ramotar told the new High Commissioner that he is willing to explore cooperation in various areas, given the opportunity which South/South cooperation provides.
He said Malaysia’s commitment to intensify the two countries’ relations through the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme, and the conclusion of trade and economic agreements which would provide the opportunity for the private sector of the two countries to explore means through which they can make a contribution to economic development.
“I am convinced that Guyana and Malaysia can actively explore several areas of cooperation. It is therefore my sincere hope that during the time you will serve as High Commissioner that our relations would be significantly enhanced,” President Ramotar said.
Last year, a delegation from Malaysia’s largest multifaceted company, Wee Boon Ping Group, indicated its willingness to partner with Guyana, drawing inspiration from similarities in forest resources and the promotion of sustainable forestry practices.
The visiting delegation was led by Company Chairman, Sir Datuk Wee Kok Tiong, a third- generation successor to the family-owned business.
Malaysia is located in Southeast Asia, occupying a landmass of 329,847 square kilometres. (GINA)