Malaysia and Russia strengthen ties amid MH17 investigation talks

[MALAYSIA] Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has said Russia is prepared to cooperate in an independent investigation into the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17, following the United Nations aviation agency’s recent findings that placed responsibility on Moscow.

Speaking during an official visit to Moscow on May 14, Anwar noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin had expressed support for a comprehensive and impartial inquiry into the 2014 incident, emphasizing the need for an investigation free from political interference.

The MH17 disaster, which occurred amid the conflict in eastern Ukraine, remains a source of geopolitical tension. Although a Joint Investigation Team (JIT) previously determined that the missile used to down the aircraft was launched from a Russian military unit, Moscow has repeatedly denied involvement. The latest ruling by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has reignited international debate over accountability, prompting renewed calls from Russia for dialogue based on fresh examination of the evidence.

“Russia is ready to offer full cooperation to ensure the investigation report is credible and authoritative,” Anwar told reporters in the Russian capital.

The Kremlin has rejected the ICAO’s conclusion that Russia was responsible for the downing of the Boeing 777, which killed all 298 people on board. President Putin dismissed claims that Russia was unwilling to engage, stating the Kremlin was open to working with investigative bodies it considers impartial, according to Anwar.

The Prime Minister’s visit comes as Malaysia continues to navigate a delicate diplomatic path, aiming to maintain balanced relations with both the West and Russia. As a non-aligned nation, Malaysia has underscored its commitment to neutrality, enabling it to preserve dialogue with Moscow despite Western sanctions imposed over the Ukraine conflict.

The MH17 tragedy, alongside the disappearance of Flight MH370 in the same year, has had lasting financial repercussions for Malaysia Airlines. The airline experienced a sharp decline in share value, ultimately leading to its delisting from the Kuala Lumpur stock exchange.

Now under the ownership of Khazanah Nasional, Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund, Malaysia Airlines has undergone extensive restructuring. Efforts have focused on cost reduction and route realignment in a bid to restore profitability. A potential partnership with Russia’s sovereign wealth fund, the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), could mark a new chapter in investment-led recovery, although analysts warn that geopolitical tensions could pose challenges.

RDIF CEO Kirill Dmitriev, who also serves as Putin’s investment envoy, said via Telegram that discussions are underway with Khazanah to establish a joint Russian-Malaysian investment fund.

Separately, Russian Energy Minister Sergei Tsivilev revealed that Moscow is exploring investment opportunities in Malaysia’s gas infrastructure, including potential cooperation in gas trading, according to Interfax.

Energy ties between the two countries have expanded in recent years, particularly in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemical sectors. With Western sanctions pushing Russia to seek alternative markets, Malaysia’s strategic position in Southeast Asia has enhanced its appeal as a partner in energy and infrastructure projects.

During the visit, Anwar extended an invitation to President Putin to attend the ASEAN summit in Malaysia this October. Malaysia currently holds the chairmanship of the 10-member regional bloc.

Following his engagements in Moscow, the Prime Minister is scheduled to continue his trip to Kazan on May 15.