Ruto Praises Kenya’s Progress: “We Are Walking in Malaysia’s Footsteps”

President William Ruto on Monday announced a new phase of cooperation between Kenya and Malaysia following the unveiling of fresh areas of partnership and a raft of bilateral agreements the two countries inked. The landmark deals include the removal of tariffs on key agricultural products that Kenya exports to Malaysia, a development likely to unlock new commercial opportunities for Kenyan farmers.

Receiving Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Nairobi, President Ruto said the tariff-free agreement would substantially deepen trade relations and widen Kenya’s footprint in the Asian market. He said the move was in line with Kenya’s ambition of increasing its exports and engendering long-term economic growth led by agriculture.

“The removal of these tariffs is especially significant given the structure of our current trade, where Kenya’s main exports to Malaysia include tea, coffee, flowers, avocados, and titanium ores, while imports from Malaysia consist primarily of edible oils and fats, chemical products, electronics, agricultural chemicals, and rubber,” Ruto said.

Besides trade, the bilateral talks also focused on cooperation in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, research, and education-the cornerstones of Kenya’s human capital development agenda. Ruto disclosed that Malaysia would support Kenya in expanding its semiconductor technology and manufacturing capacity.

“Through a strategic partnership, Malaysia will support Kenya to grow and expand its semiconductor technology and manufacturing capabilities, including the experience that we have in Kimathi University,” he stated.

The President praised the training and skills development opportunities the partnership will create for engineers and other high-level professionals, saying they will accelerate Kenya’s industrialization ambitions.

“We are walking in the footsteps of Malaysia, and we hope to catch up with you soon.”

Ruto added that Kenya’s housing program draws lessons from both Malaysia and Singapore, and he plans to engage the private sector further by exposing them to Malaysia’s achievements in housing, healthcare, and modern infrastructure.

Prime Minister Anwar welcomed the strengthened partnership and applauded Kenya’s rapid progress in delivering affordable housing. He urged both nations to lead with strong governance and shared economic values.

“I believe that Kenya will be one of the great stars in Africa,” he affirmed.

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