Malaysia and Turkmenistan Expand Strategic Cooperation Beyond Oil and Gas
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia and Turkmenistan are entering a new chapter in their bilateral relations as both countries seek to broaden cooperation beyond the traditional oil and gas sector into a range of strategic areas including education, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors and human capital development.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the long-standing relationship between the two countries is now evolving into a broader partnership aimed at creating sustainable economic and social benefits.
According to him, the strong ties built on mutual trust and friendship have created opportunities for Malaysia and Turkmenistan to explore collaborations in high-value industries and emerging technologies.
“Malaysia-Turkmenistan relations are no longer confined to the energy sector alone.
“Our cooperation has expanded into strategic areas capable of strengthening economic growth and enhancing human capital development in both countries,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Anwar made the remarks after attending the Turkmenistan-Malaysia Forum in Ashgabat alongside Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedow.
He said the world is currently facing geopolitical uncertainties, rapid technological change and economic challenges, making it increasingly important for developing nations to strengthen cooperation and build resilient partnerships.
Malaysia, he said, views Turkmenistan as an important strategic partner in Central Asia with strong potential in sectors such as higher education, technology and innovation.
Anwar noted that collaboration in TVET and human capital development is crucial to ensuring that both countries are equipped with a skilled workforce capable of meeting the demands of future industries.
He added that Malaysia is also keen to explore opportunities in AI and semiconductor development, two sectors that are rapidly becoming key drivers of global economic growth.
“Cooperation in these fields will not only facilitate technology transfer but also strengthen the competitiveness of both countries in the international arena,” he said.
The Prime Minister also reflected on the writings of Turkmenistan’s renowned poet and philosopher, Magtymguly Pyragy, whose works emphasise the importance of unity and harmony.
According to Anwar, the values promoted by the poet resonate strongly with the spirit of cooperation that Malaysia and Turkmenistan are striving to build.
“Magtymguly Pyragy spoke about the importance of unity in thought, spirit and purpose.
“I believe these values form a strong foundation for the growing friendship between our two countries,” he said.
Earlier, Anwar and Berdimuhamedow witnessed the signing of several agreements expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation further.
Among the agreements signed was a framework agreement between the governments of Malaysia and Turkmenistan concerning the development of the country’s hydrocarbon resources.
Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) also signed Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs) for Blocks 19 and 20 with State Concern Turkmennebit and State Enterprise Hazarnebit.
In addition, both sides signed a cooperation agreement to undertake a two-dimensional (2D) seismic survey for offshore blocks located in northern Turkmenistan.
Anwar said the agreements would enhance economic relations between the two countries while creating new investment and business opportunities in the years ahead.
He expressed confidence that Malaysia and Turkmenistan would continue to deepen their partnership and serve as an example of how developing nations can work together based on trust, mutual respect and a shared vision for sustainable prosperity.
