Pretoria: Namibia's High Commissioner-designate to Malaysia, Christine //Hoebes, has pledged to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations with Malaysia, saying she will work to expand cooperation in key sectors that support the country's development agenda.

According to Namibia Press Agency, //Hoebes spoke after being commissioned by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House on Tuesday, describing her appointment as a solemn national responsibility rather than a personal achievement. She sees this role as a duty to represent Namibia faithfully and to enhance the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Namibia and Malaysia.

The High Commissioner-designate emphasized that Namibia and Malaysia have shared warm and cordial relations over many years, based on mutual respect, solidarity, and shared aspirations for peace, sustainable development, and prosperity. Her priorities will include expanding partnerships in trade and investment, education and skills development, tourism, agriculture, energy, and technology, all aimed at contributing to Namibia's socio-economic transformation.

"As I prepare to assume my duties in Malaysia, I do so fully mindful that I carry with me the hopes and aspirations of the Namibian people," she stated, expressing her intent to position Namibia as a credible and attractive partner for cooperation, trade, and investment.

//Hoebes also committed to strengthening people-to-people relations and advancing Namibia's foreign policy objectives through greater economic collaboration between the two nations.

Nandi-Ndaitwah appointed //Hoebes as her special advisor in April 2025. She has previously served as Minister in the Presidency, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and Deputy Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.

As she prepares to assume her role as a first-time head of mission, //Hoebes will undergo a comprehensive induction programme at the Ministry of International Relations and Trade, adhering to established diplomatic practice, before taking up her posting in Kuala Lumpur.