"Yes, we are ready [to ensure Putin's stay]. We invite Putin to visit Malaysia," Sabu said.
Malaysia and Russia have "very strong relations, including in defense," the minister added.
"We bought Sukhoi fighter jets. We are still using them. We will continue to strengthen our cooperation with Russia," Sabu, who also served as Malaysian defense minister from 2018-2020, said.
Malaysia, as chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will promote closer ties with Russia next year, Minister Sabu also noted.
"We hope that Malaysia, as the leader of ASEAN next year, can play an appropriate role. Then ASEAN can work together and maintain close relations with Russia ... We hope that Malaysia will play its role in bringing ASEAN closer to Russia," the minister said.