Malaysia

China is the most important external partner for Malaysia, well ahead of the next-most influential powers Singapore and the United States. It leads both economic and cultural influence in Malaysia (one of just three countries where this is the case). Cultural influence is driven by growing people ties: as of 2025, the two countries have granted each other’s citizens visa-free travel. Singapore, Australia, and Indonesia are the leading defence partners for Malaysia, while regional neighbours and China rank highest in terms of diplomacy. A middle power in the region, Malaysia has the greatest importance in neighbouring Brunei and Singapore, ranking first and third respectively for overall influence.