The visit is expected to be crucial for enhancing the existing multifaceted bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

The International Relations Institute of Cambodia’s Director-General Dr Kin Phea said the upcoming visit of the Malaysian deputy prime minister carries significant diplomatic importance.

“The visit underscores both nations’ shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations and strengthening ASEAN unity at a crucial time for regional peace and stability.

"It offers an opportunity to advance cooperation in trade, investment, labour, education, and tourism, while constructively addressing pending issues and reinforcing mutual understanding,” Phea told Bernama. 

Ahmad Zahid is scheduled to visit Phnom Penh from October 13 to 15. 

Some highlights of Ahmad Zahid’s visit, who also serves as Rural and Regional Development Minister, include courtesy calls on Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Senate President Hun Sen.

He will also hold a meeting with Cambodian Rural Development Minister Chhay Rithisen.

On Tuesday, Ahmad Zahid is scheduled to attend a dinner with the Malaysian community in Phnom Penh.

Cambodia is hosting the 47th ASEAN Committee on Disaster Management meeting in the capital, where regional representatives will discuss risk assessment related to natural disasters. 

Ahmad Zahid will participate in the 13th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Disaster Management and the 14th Conference of the Parties to the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management and Emergency Response (AADMER) and Related meetings.

The meetings come at a time when the region is grappling with frequent natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, and landslides.

ASEAN member countries such as Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam have suffered severely from weather-related calamities affecting livelihoods, farmlands and properties in recent months. 

-- BERNAMA