Malaysia's new envoy to Türkiye likens the country to a 'giant open-air museum'

Malaysia's newly appointed ambassador to Türkiye, Adlan Mohd Shaffieq, has described the country as resembling a "giant open-air museum," praising its cultural heritage and hospitality as he settles into his new post.

The ambassador's remarks touched on Türkiye's rich historical and archaeological sites, which span millennia of civilizations and have long made the country a major draw for tourists and cultural visitors from around the world.

Deepening bilateral ties

Beyond his comments on Turkish culture, Shaffieq highlighted growing cooperation between Malaysia and Türkiye across several sectors, including trade, defense and tourism. Bilateral relations between the two countries, both members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, have expanded in recent years across diplomatic, economic and cultural channels.

Trade and defense cooperation between Malaysia and Türkiye has grown as both countries have sought to diversify their international partnerships. Turkish defense manufacturers, in particular, have expanded their presence in Southeast Asian markets in recent years.

Tourism also represents a growing area of exchange, with increasing numbers of Malaysian travelers visiting Türkiye, drawn in part by its historical sites, natural landscapes and status as a bridge between Europe and Asia.

The ambassador's comments reflect a broader diplomatic effort to strengthen ties between the two nations as new envoys often use early public remarks to set a positive tone for their tenure and highlight areas for expanded cooperation.