Malaysia Reopens Embassy in Addis Ababa After 43 Years











Malaysia has officially re-established its diplomatic presence in Ethiopia, reopening its embassy in Addis Ababa after more than four decades of closure. The decision marks a significant step in strengthening political, economic, and cultural links between the two countries and underscores Malaysia’s growing interest in the African continent.

Historic Closure and Reopening

Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on 29 September 2025 that the embassy resumed operations effective 23 September 2025. According to a senior Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs official who spoke to Addis Standard, Malaysia originally shut its embassy in 1982 amid strained relations with the military regime of the time, known as the Derg. The Derg’s socialist policies and political instability during the Cold War period led several nations to scale back or suspend their diplomatic representation in Ethiopia.

The reopening is therefore not merely an administrative move but a symbolic act of reconciliation and a recognition of Ethiopia’s more stable and open political environment. It reflects the steady normalization of ties and the mutual interest in reinvigorating a relationship that has been dormant for over four decades.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

“The reopening of the Embassy underscores Malaysia’s commitment to further strengthening the warm and close bilateral relations with Ethiopia,” Malaysia’s foreign ministry said in its statement. The ministry highlighted that the embassy will act as a catalyst for cooperation in key sectors such as trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange.

Ethiopia, Africa’s second-most populous nation and one of the continent’s fastest-growing economies in recent years, presents opportunities for Malaysian investors in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and technology. For Ethiopia, Malaysia’s advanced manufacturing base and expertise in areas like palm oil, electronics, and Islamic finance could open doors for knowledge transfer and joint ventures.

The presence of a resident embassy is expected to facilitate business-to-business connections and make it easier for companies on both sides to explore partnerships. People-to-people ties—including tourism, student exchanges, and diaspora engagement—are also anticipated to benefit from direct diplomatic representation.

Gateway to the African Union

The reopening carries a regional dimension as well. Addis Ababa hosts the headquarters of the African Union (AU), making it a strategic location for countries seeking to deepen their engagement with continental institutions. Malaysia’s new embassy will serve not only as a platform for bilateral diplomacy with Ethiopia but also as a hub for Malaysia’s outreach to the AU and other African states.

For Malaysia, which has been expanding its South-South cooperation efforts, closer ties with Africa align with a broader foreign policy strategy that emphasizes multilateral engagement and diversified trade partners.

Temporary Premises and Future Plans

For now, the Malaysian embassy is operating from a temporary office inside the Sheraton Addis Hotel. Officials have indicated that preparations are underway to establish a permanent chancery in the city. The appointment of an ambassador is expected in the coming months, with both governments signaling readiness to elevate diplomatic exchanges and organize high-level visits.

Looking Ahead

The reopening of the Malaysian embassy in Addis Ababa after 43 years stands as a milestone in the two countries’ relationship. It reflects a mutual recognition of the growing economic and political importance of both nations and sets the stage for a deeper partnership. For Ethiopia, the move is another sign of its expanding global ties; for Malaysia, it is a renewed commitment to engage with Africa’s emerging markets and multilateral institutions.

Diplomatic observers say the next phase will likely involve new bilateral agreements and initiatives aimed at turning the goodwill generated by this reopening into tangible economic and cultural cooperation.