On 2 April, the Ambassador of Turkmenistan to Malaysia, M. Mashalov, met with the Malaysian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Haji Mohamad bin Sabu. The meeting was attended by heads of departments within the ministry, representatives of the Malaysian Institute of Agricultural Research and Development, the South and Central Asia Division of the Malaysian Foreign Affairs Ministry, as well as staff from the Embassy of Turkmenistan. This was reported by the press service of the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Turkmenistan.

The Ambassador noted the need to intensify cooperation in the agricultural sector and reaffirmed Turkmenistan’s openness to joint projects. Discussions covered the establishment of joint ventures, the digitalisation of agriculture, the exchange of expertise, the development of export logistics and environmentally friendly production.

The parties considered specific areas: joint agricultural enterprises in Malaysia, processing of agricultural produce, support for investors, the introduction of precision farming, seed production, livestock farming, the use of drought-resistant crops, modernisation of irrigation, efficient water use and the simplification of phytosanitary and veterinary procedures. It was proposed to draft a Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries’ ministries of agriculture.

Minister H.M. Sabu highlighted the effectiveness of trade and economic cooperation and noted the prospects for developing trade in fresh fruit and vegetables. He shared Malaysia’s experience in the field of irrigation systems and ‘smart farm’ projects.

The Turkmen side was briefed on the activities of the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI). Discussions took place regarding the conclusion of a Cooperation Agreement between research institutes and the organisation of exchange visits for specialists.

The Ambassador invited Malaysian specialists to take part in the international exhibitions ‘Agro Pack Turkmenistan – 2026’ and ‘Food Turkmenistan 2026’, which will be held in Ashgabat from 12 to 14 May.