Anwar stresses Hormuz safety in first meeting with Iranian president

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called for safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz in his first face-to-face meeting with Iranian president Masoud Pezeshkian here today.

Anwar said the freedom and safety of ships passing through the strait must be maintained in line with international law.

He also expressed Malaysia’s concern over the continued conflict and escalation in West Asia, and urged all parties to return to dialogue and diplomacy.

The two leaders met on the sidelines of the BRICS summit here, after having spoken several times by telephone since Pezeshkian became president in July 2024.

The Strait of Hormuz has been of particular concern to Malaysia following disruptions to shipping in the area earlier this year.

Anwar had then sought Tehran’s help for Malaysian-owned vessels affected by the disruption, with Iran subsequently allowing them passage through the strait.

Anwar and Pezeshkian also discussed expanding trade and investment ties in energy, agriculture, palm oil, food security, and the halal industry.

They also explored greater cooperation in technology and higher education, while reaffirming the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Malaysia and Iran.