Turkmenistan and Malaysia aim to strengthen cooperation in the fields of agriculture and food security
On 2 April 2026, a meeting was held between the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Malaysia M.Mashalov and the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security of Malaysia Haji Mohamad bin Sabu. The meeting was also attended by heads of several departments of the relevant Ministry, representatives of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute, the South and Central Asia Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as well as the Embassy of Turkmenistan.
Noting the current state of Turkmen-Malaysian relations and the need to intensify mutually beneficial cooperation in the agricultural sector, the Ambassador reaffirmed Turkmenistan's openness to cooperation with Malaysia in strengthening trade and economic ties, establishing joint ventures in the agricultural sector, digitalising this field, exchanging experience in the agro-industrial complex, and developing export logistics and environmentally friendly production.
In this context, interest was expressed in exploring Malaysia's opportunities and possible avenues for implementing joint actions in such areas as the establishment of joint agricultural enterprises in Malaysia, the promotion of agricultural product processing, state support measures for investor participation in agricultural projects, the joint introduction of digital technologies and precision farming systems to increase crop yields, the exchange of experience in seed production, livestock development and the use of drought-resistant crops, as well as the modernisation of irrigation systems, the efficient use of water resources, and the facilitation of phytosanitary and veterinary inspections.
In this regard, it was proposed to prepare a draft Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security of Malaysia.
For his part, H.M. Sabu stressed that trade and economic cooperation between Malaysia and Turkmenistan has been developing very effectively within the framework of the positive relations established between the two countries, and noted the need to intensify interaction in the agricultural sphere. He proposed establishing mutual imports and exports of fresh vegetables and fruits between the two countries. H.M. Sabu also spoke about Malaysia's experience in the agricultural sector, particularly in the field of irrigation systems and smart farm projects.
In addition, the Turkmen side was briefed on the activities of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). It was proposed to conclude memorandum of understanding between the research institutes of the two countries in this field. Readiness was also expressed to organise exchange visits for specialists of the two countries in the above-mentioned areas.
The Ambassador also invited Malaysian specialists to take an active part in the international specialised exhibition "Agro Pack Turkmenistan - 2026", as well as in the international exhibition "Food Turkmenistan 2026", which will be held in Ashgabat on 12-14 May 2026.