On November 25, 2025, a pivotal meeting took place between Malaysia and Pakistan, aimed at enhancing maritime collaboration. Malaysian Deputy Minister of Transport, Datuk Hasbi bin Habibollah, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, convened in the UK to evaluate existing cooperation and explore new initiatives in the maritime sector.
During their discussions, Minister Chaudhry proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to boost seafarer training and facilitate the exchange of marine cadets between the two nations. This initiative would enable Pakistan to send cadets to Malaysian maritime academies, while Malaysia would provide specialized training opportunities in Pakistan. Chaudhry emphasized that this exchange would not only aid in the professional development of young seafarers but also establish a foundation for long-term collaboration in the maritime field.
Additionally, the meeting covered the possibility of leveraging Pakistan’s advancements in digital port solutions. Chaudhry highlighted the benefits of the Pakistan Single Window platform at Karachi Port and Port Qasim, which has effectively streamlined cargo clearance processes, enhanced transparency, and bolstered trade facilitation. Malaysia’s access to these innovations could further modernize its port operations.
Beyond training and technology, discussions also included the establishment of direct feeder shipping lines linking Pakistan, Malaysia, and Indonesia. This proposal aims to reduce freight costs and transportation times, while simultaneously enhancing Pakistan’s rice exports to Southeast Asia and facilitating the import of edible oil from Malaysia and Indonesia. Such initiatives align with Pakistan’s broader strategy to strengthen maritime connectivity with ASEAN economies, where there is a growing demand for agricultural exports.
Both nations acknowledged the necessity of conducting further technical consultations to finalize the MoU, outline training modules, and effectively implement the cadet exchange program in the near future. This collaborative effort signifies a robust step towards expanding maritime ties and ensuring mutual benefits for both countries in the shipping and trade sectors.
