The Ministry of Investment of the United Arab Emirates and the Perak State Development Corporation in Malaysia have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in food security. This agreement also includes plans for the development of the Bagan Datuk International Sea-Hub Multipurpose Terminal in Perak State, which reflects both parties’ dedication to strengthening global supply chains and promoting sustainable economic growth through strategic infrastructure projects.

His Excellency Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi, the UAE Minister of Investment, and Yab Dato’ Seri Haji Saarani Bin Mohamad, the Chairman of the Perak State Development Corporation, were the signatories of this important agreement. They will collaborate to identify investment opportunities in food security, building upon the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that was signed between the UAE and Malaysia in January 2025.

Mohamed Hassan Alsuwaidi emphasized that the MoU demonstrates a mutual commitment to enhancing regional supply chain resilience and fostering sustainable development. He stated that the partnership aims to create meaningful international collaborations that provide tangible benefits to both nations while contributing to the stability of the global food system.

Yab Dato’ Seri Haji Saarani Bin Mohamad expressed satisfaction with the formalization of the partnership, highlighting its importance for advancing Malaysia’s agricultural sector and infrastructure objectives, particularly in the context of global food security. He noted that the Bagan Datuk International Sea-Hub Multipurpose Terminal will play a vital role in facilitating Malaysia’s food exports and reinforcing the country’s position within global supply chains.

The UAE and Malaysia share a robust relationship characterized by increasing economic and trade ties. Non-oil bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 4.9 billion in 2023, with USD 4 billion recorded in the first nine months of 2024. The UAE stands as Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner in the Middle East, accounting for 32% of Malaysia’s trade volume with the region, while Malaysia ranks as the UAE’s 12th largest trading partner in Asia.

The Ministry of Investment of the UAE is crucial in establishing the UAE as a global investment hub with excellent connectivity to international markets. It aims to draw foreign direct investments across critical sectors and promote collaboration between private entities, thereby enhancing the UAE’s investor-friendly environment and supporting its ambitious economic diversification goals.

Invest UAE, a platform under the Ministry of Investment, is dedicated to improving the UAE’s investment landscape and positioning the nation as a leading global investment destination. The initiative seeks to attract and facilitate foreign direct investment, encouraging partnerships between global investors and the UAE, ultimately creating an environment where businesses and capital can thrive.