GEORGE TOWN: Penang is looking to deepen ties with Hungary in areas such as higher education, technological innovation, water management, green technology and heritage conservation following discussions between state leaders and a visiting Hungarian delegation.
Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said Hungary, as one of Europe's key nations, possesses extensive expertise in several fields that offer significant opportunities for collaboration with Penang.
He said this after meeting Hungarian Ambassador to Malaysia Dr Sándor Sipos and his delegation during their recent visit to the state.
The discussions covered a wide range of areas, including heritage conservation, higher education, trade and investment, water management, green technology, tourism development and cultural exchanges. Opportunities for enhanced cooperation among academic institutions, business communities and government agencies were also explored.
“Penang and Hungary share a common vision of pursuing sustainable development while preserving and promoting our rich cultural heritage.
“I am encouraged by the strong interest shown in deepening cooperation, particularly in the areas of research and development, water security, renewable energy and talent development,” said Chow on Wednesday.
Chow also welcomed the continued success of Hungary's scholarship programme for Malaysian students, saying it provides valuable opportunities for young Malaysians to pursue higher education and research abroad.
He said education and talent exchanges have become important bridges for fostering cooperation between nations and regions.
Chow thanked the Hungarian delegation for the visit and expressed hope that the discussions would translate into concrete collaborative projects in the years ahead.
Meanwhile, Sipos said the Hungarian government offers 40 fully funded scholarship places annually to Malaysian students and welcomed applications from outstanding students nationwide, including those from Penang.
He said he hoped more students from Penang would benefit from the programme and looked forward to strengthening ties with the state in education, research, innovation and talent development.
Earlier, Sipos and his delegation paid courtesy calls on state executive councillors Goh Choon Aik and Gooi Zi Sen.
During the meetings, discussions focused on trade and investment, community engagement, youth development and sports cooperation.
Gooi said he would invite the Penang State Sports Council to conduct further studies and submit recommendations on potential sports disciplines suitable for bilateral cooperation and exchanges with Hungary.
He added that the state government welcomes international collaborations that can help raise the standard of local sports and nurture young sporting talents.
