MOSCOW May 9, 2026 – Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar described Russia as his “second home” while holding bilateral talks with President Vladimir Putin on the sidelines of Russia’s Victory Day commemorations.
The Malaysian monarch, attending as a guest of honour at Putin’s invitation, thanked the Russian president and government for the warm reception. “It is always a pleasure to return to Russia as my second home,” Sultan Ibrahim said. “My heartfelt gratitude to you, Mr President, and to the Government of the Russian Federation for the very warm welcome [and] generous hospitality that you have extended to me and my delegation throughout this visit.”
During the meeting at the Kremlin following the Victory Day military parade on Red Square, the King extended a formal invitation to President Putin to visit Malaysia in 2027. The visit would mark the 60th anniversary — or Diamond Jubilee — of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Russia, established in 1967.
Sultan Ibrahim arrived in Moscow on May 7, becoming the first Malaysian head of state to participate in Russia’s annual Victory Day events, which mark the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. He joined other international leaders, including Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko and Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, in wreath-laying ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
The visit highlights deepening bilateral ties between the two nations, particularly in trade, energy, and strategic cooperation. Malaysian and Russian officials have described the engagement as a significant step in strengthening economic and diplomatic relations.
The King’s presence at this year’s scaled-back but symbolically important parade underscores Malaysia’s growing role in Russia’s international outreach amid global geopolitical shifts.
About The Author
