On the morning of Wednesday, June 26, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Hong Kyun held the ninth Korea-Malaysia Bilateral Consultations in Putrajaya, Malaysia, with Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, Amran Mohamed Zin. They exchanged views on various issues, including bilateral relations, economic cooperation, defense and the defense industry, energy and environment, and regional and international cooperation.

Vice Minister Kim and Secretary General Amran acknowledged the substantive development of bilateral relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1960. They agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations this year through high-level exchanges and cooperation in various fields, building on the momentum of last year’s summit meeting (in September) and two foreign ministers' meetings (in May and November).

Vice Minister Kim welcomed the recent resumption of FTA negotiations between the two countries and proposed expanding mutually beneficial economic cooperation in areas such as supply chains, halal food, and infrastructure. He also requested the Malaysian government’s cooperation and support to resolve issues faced by Korean companies in Malaysia. In response, Secretary General Amran welcomed Korean companies' investment in Malaysia and assured that the Malaysian government would continue its efforts to create a more business-friendly environment.

Vice Minister Kim and Secretary General Amran agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense and the defense industry, based on the momentum established through Malaysia's acquisition of the Korean Light Combat Aircraft (FA-50) last year. They decided to continue close exchanges between defense authorities and foster mutually beneficial cooperation in the defense industry.

Vice Minister Kim and Secretary General Amran also discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the energy and environmental sectors. Secretary General Amran expressed Malaysia's commitment to expanding cooperation with Korea in climate change and renewable energy, including Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and green hydrogen. Vice Minister Kim suggested that both governments work closely together to establish an institutional foundation for expanding cooperation in these areas.

They also discussed regional and international affairs, including the situation on the Korean Peninsula. Vice Minister Kim pointed out that North Korea continues to reject all proposals for dialogue and engage in a series of provocative actions, such as launching missiles and sending trash-carrying balloons. He noted that North Korea's recent military cooperation with Russia, following President Putin’s visit to North Korea, violates multiple UN Security Council resolutions and seriously threatens peace and stability not only on the Korean Peninsula but also in ASEAN and other regions. He emphasized the need for sending a firm and united international message to North Korea and called for continued cooperation with Malaysia. Secretary General Amran expressed concern over the recent situation on the Korean Peninsula, and stated that Malaysia will cooperate to send a clear message urging North Korea to comply with international law, including UN Security Council resolutions, and pursue denuclearization.

Additionally, Vice Minister Kim expressed his expectations for Malaysia's successful ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, and requested Malaysia's cooperation and interest in effectively implementing the "Korea-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," planned to be established this year. Furthermore, the two sides agreed to cooperate closely to ensure Korea’s successful hosting of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in 2025.

On the same day, Vice Minister Kim also paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Mohamad bin Hasan and met with Director General of the National Security Council Nushirwan bin Zainal Abidin to exchange views on Korea-Malaysia bilateral relations, issues on the Korean Peninsula, and regional and international cooperation.