UAE And Malaysia’s Perak State Development Corporation Sign MoU To Enhance Food Security Initiatives

The Ministry of Investment in the UAE and the Perak State Development Corporation in Malaysia have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to enhance cooperation in food security and develop the Bagan Datuk International Sea-Hub Multipurpose Terminal in Perak. The initiative underscores both parties' dedication to strengthening global supply chains and fostering sustainable economic growth through strategic infrastructure projects.

Yab Dato’ Seri Haji Saarani Bin Mohamad, Chairman of Perak State Development Corporation, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. "We are pleased to formalise this partnership with the UAE Ministry of Investment, which will advance our agricultural sector and infrastructure development objectives, and our role in global food security. The Bagan Datuk International Sea-Hub Multipurpose Terminal will serve as a critical gateway for Malaysia's food exports while strengthening our position in global supply chains. We greatly value our partnership with the UAE and look forward to working together."

The UAE and Malaysia enjoy robust economic relations, marked by significant trade exchanges. In 2023, non-oil bilateral trade between these nations reached US$4.9 billion, with US$4 billion recorded in the first nine months of 2024. The UAE stands as Malaysia's second-largest trading partner in the Middle East, contributing 32% to Malaysia's trade volume within the region. Conversely, Malaysia ranks as the UAE's 12th largest Asian trading partner.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, Minister of Investment, highlighted the significance of this MoU. "This Memorandum with the Perak State Development Corporation underscores our shared commitment to bolstering regional supply chain resilience and driving sustainable development. Through this partnership, we aim to create meaningful international collaborations that deliver tangible value to both parties, while also contributing to the stability of the global food system."

The collaboration builds on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) established between the UAE and Malaysia in January 2025. Both parties are keen on exploring investment opportunities in food security through this agreement. This effort aligns with their mutual goal of enhancing regional supply chain resilience and promoting sustainable development.

The MoU was signed by Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi and Yab Dato’ Seri Haji Saarani Bin Mohamad. Their joint efforts aim to explore investment avenues that will strengthen food security initiatives further. This partnership is expected to yield substantial benefits for both countries while contributing positively to global food systems.

This agreement marks a significant step towards reinforcing economic ties between the UAE and Malaysia. It highlights their shared vision for sustainable growth and enhanced cooperation in critical sectors like food security.

With inputs from WAM