ASHGABAT (TURKMENISTAN): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedov today witnessed the signing of a strategic partnership between Petronas and Turkmenistan authorities, marking a new chapter in economic and energy relations between the two countries.
In a statement today, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said the agreement coincides with 30 years of Malaysia-Turkmenistan cooperation in the energy sector, which has been a cornerstone of bilateral ties.
"This relationship not only strengthens the friendship between Malaysia and Turkmenistan, but also contributes to economic growth, talent development, and the transfer of knowledge and technology that benefits both parties.
"The partnership also opens up opportunities for more strategic involvement in developing future energy resources, including exploring the vast potential of Turkmenistan’s natural gas sector, which holds some of the world’s largest gas reserves,” the PMO said.
The strategic partnership also reflects international confidence in Malaysia’s capabilities in the energy sector and strategic industries.
The PMO noted that it demonstrates the country’s expertise, talent and technology can compete on the global stage and contribute to economic development and energy security worldwide.
"The MADANI government welcomes this development, which not only strengthens Malaysia-Turkmenistan bilateral relations but also creates broader economic and investment cooperation opportunities in the future,” it said.
Earlier, Anwar, who is on a two-day official visit that began yesterday, was received by Berdimuhamedov at the official welcome ceremony at the Presidential Palace before leading the Malaysian delegation to a bilateral meeting with Turkmenistan.
In 2025, Turkmenistan was Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner among the Central Asian countries.
The bilateral trade between Malaysia and Turkmenistan amounted to RM75.80 million, with Malaysia’s exports valued at RM75.50 million, marking a 9.0 per cent increase from the previous year.
Turkmenistan is also a key investment destination for Petronas, with the company’s total investments in the country reaching RM52.73 billion since 1996. - Bernama
