Bilateral Relations

Malaysia and Zimbabwe have cordial diplomatic relations, which have been strengthened through cooperation in international forums like the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement. Following strained relations with Western countries, Zimbabwe adopted a “Look East” policy, which further deepened its ties with Malaysia. The relationship is facilitated by respective embassies in Harare and Kuala Lumpur.

• Embassies: Both countries maintain diplomatic missions in each other’s capitals. Malaysia has an embassy in Harare, while Zimbabwe has an embassy in Kuala Lumpur.
• “Look East” policy: Zimbabwe’s government has pursued a “look east” policy to strengthen ties with East Asian nations, including Malaysia, partly due to strained relations with Western countries. In 2005, then-President Robert Mugabe cited Malaysia’s economic success as an example and welcomed closer ties.
• Commonwealth: After leaving the Commonwealth in 2003, Zimbabwe sought Malaysia’s support to rejoin the organization in 2020. Both nations see mutual benefits from being included in the Commonwealth family.
• Forums: The nations cooperate in international forums such as the United Nations (UN) and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM). 

• Increasing trade: Trade between Malaysia and Zimbabwe has grown significantly. Total trade in 2023 was $7.313 million, an increase of 136.6% from 2022. Malaysia’s exports to Zimbabwe in 2023 were $4.307 million, with Zimbabwe’s exports to Malaysia at $3.005 million.
• Key exports: In 2023, manufactured goods, such as rubber and chemical products, were the primary drivers of Malaysia’s exports to Zimbabwe.
• Economic cooperation: The ties are strengthened through capacity-building efforts facilitated by the Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP).
• Double taxation agreement: An agreement for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income is in effect. 

• Technical cooperation: The Malaysia Technical Cooperation Programme provides assistance in areas such as education and capacity-building.
• Airline industry: In 2020, Air Zimbabwe acquired two Boeing 777-200 aircraft from the Malaysian government to help revive its national carrier.
• Tourism: The Malaysian Embassy in Harare has promoted tourism, including the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign, to travel agents and tour operators in Zimbabwe.
• Work arrangements: A bilateral work arrangement was concluded in 2021 to allow spouses of diplomatic workers to gain professional experience in the host country. 

• Consular services: Malaysia provides consular assistance to its citizens in Zimbabwe and upholds their welfare, safety, and legal rights.
• Events: Both countries celebrate national holidays together. In August 2025, the Malaysian Embassy in Harare held a Merdeka Day celebration with the local Malaysian community and “friends of Malaysia,” emphasizing cordial relations.