Bilateral cooperation dates back to December 31, 1991 when Malaysia recognized the independence of Kazakhstan.
On March 16, 1992, two countries established diplomatic relations. Over the years, Kazakhstan and Malaysia have developed a constructive and trusting dialogue.
Bilateral relations are developing dynamically within the framework of both regional and international organizations.
In 1996, Kazakhstan opened its first Embassy in South-East Asia in Kuala Lumpur, and in the same year, Malaysia opened its Embassy in Kazakhstan.
Since 1996, Astana maintains sister city relationship with Putrajaya.
In February 2021, by the decree of the President of Kazakhstan, H.E. Bulat Sugurbayev has been appointed the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Kazakhstan to Malaysia.
Since December 2022, the Ambassador of Malaysia to Kazakhstan has become H.E. Mohd Adli bin Abdullah.
The President of the Republic of Kazakhstan visited Malaysia three times: on an official visit in 1996, and on state visits in 2006 and 2012.
Prime Ministers of Malaysia visited Kazakhstan four times: M. Mohamad in 1996, N. Razak in 2011 and 2014, and A. Ibrahim in 2024.
Trade and Economic Cooperation
According to the results of 2025, trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Malaysia increased by 53% to USD 221 million (USD 144.8 million in 2022, USD 246.5 million in 2023, and USD 144 million in 2024).
Exports amounted to USD 15.7 million (a fourfold increase), while imports reached USD 205.9 million (+46%).
The Malaysian airline AirAsia X operates direct flights on the Kuala Lumpur – Almaty – Kuala Lumpur route.