On January 13, 2025, H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, along with Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at fostering joint investment in artificial intelligence (AI). This agreement was created as part of the Malaysia Madani Artificial Intelligence (MMAI) initiative and was also attended by H.H. Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi.

The MoU focuses on leveraging AI and advanced data analytics to enhance community safety, national security, and operational efficiencies. Under this agreement, the UAE and Malaysia will collaborate on various key initiatives, including the development of AI-driven national security systems, the establishment of high-performance computing data centers, and the improvement of customs tax collection. This partnership aims to improve operational efficiencies across both nations.

The official signing of the MoU was conducted by Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, the UAE Minister of Investment, and Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Malaysia’s Minister of Home Affairs. Following the signing, discussions took place regarding the enhancement of bilateral political and economic relations between the two countries. The talks also explored the potential of advanced technology and AI in various sectors, particularly in ways that could positively affect living standards and quality of life.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi expressed that the collaboration with Malaysia emphasizes the strength of the bilateral ties and the shared commitment to technological innovation that supports sustainable development. He stated that this MoU represents a significant advancement in cooperation concerning artificial intelligence and operational efficiency, contributing to the well-being of both nations. Alsuwaidi emphasized the focus on creating meaningful partnerships that yield mutual benefits and address global challenges.

In his remarks, Saifuddin Nasution Ismail highlighted that this partnership is a critical step for Malaysia in its aspirations to play a significant role in the global AI landscape. He noted that by utilizing cutting-edge AI and advanced data analytics, Malaysia aims to tackle complex issues, including public safety, while enhancing operational efficiencies. He acknowledged the UAE’s reputation for its advancements in AI, indicating that this collaboration will strengthen both nations’ capabilities and innovation efforts.

The Investment MoU is particularly noteworthy as it follows the confirmation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement in October 2024. This agreement marks a significant development in the economic relationship between the UAE and Malaysia, which recorded a non-oil trade volume of US$2.5 billion in the first half of 2024, reflecting a 7 percent increase compared to the same period in 2023. Malaysia ranks as the UAE’s 12th-largest trading partner in Asia and fifth among ASEAN countries, while the UAE is Malaysia’s second-largest trade partner in the Arab world, accounting for 32 percent of Malaysia’s trade within the region.