Opportunities for collaboration between Sri Lanka and Malaysia’s Melaka Region were discussed during a meeting between the High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Malaysia, Dharshana M. Perera, and the Governor of Melaka, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, at Istana Melaka (Melaka Palace) in the historic City of Melaka. The High Commissioner also held discussions with the Chairman of the Melaka Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCCI), Sai Swee Seong, on economic and business initiatives. These engagements added another dimension to the High Commission’s regional engagement initiatives in Malaysia.

During the discussions with the Governor of Melaka, the High Commissioner shared how Sri Lanka had recalibrated its future direction through focused policy implementation in governance, economic orientation, and social stability, which had already yielded concrete results over the last two years. He sought the support and partnership of the Governor and Melaka institutions for initiatives in leadership, economic and cultural engagement, trade and investment, and tourism. The Governor endorsed the proposed initiatives and encouraged Sri Lanka to collaborate closely with the Melaka Government and its institutions.

The Governor of Melaka, Tun Seri Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Ali bin Mohd Rustam, has maintained close connections with Sri Lanka over the years and visited the country several times. As a symbol of the visit to Melaka, the High Commissioner was invited to plant a sapling of the Melaka Tree (Phyllanthus emblica) in the garden of Istana Melaka, an honour accorded by the Governor.

The High Commissioner subsequently held discussions on economic collaboration with the MCCCI, which comprises over 2,000 business establishments and individuals in Melaka. He presented opportunities for engagement with Sri Lanka to the Chairman of the MCCCI, Sai Swee Seong, including trade and investment proposals in sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, IT, shipping and logistics, and energy.

Following the High Commissioner’s invitation, the MCCCI is expected to participate in Sri Lanka Expo 2027, scheduled to be held in January 2027, and the Economic and Investment Summit of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce (CCC) in October 2026.

High Commission of Sri Lanka

Kuala Lumpur

10 August 2026