PUTRAJAYA, April 27, 2026 – Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Dr. Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday hosted senior Turkish education leaders for talks aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation in higher education and exploring new opportunities in the halal sector.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as UMNO President and Minister of Rural and Regional Development, received a courtesy visit from H.E. Necmeddin Bilal Erdoğan, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Ibn Haldun University, and H.E. Prof. Dr. Erol Özvar, President of the Council of Higher Education (YÖK) Türkiye, along with their delegation at his office here.
The discussions centred on enhancing access and quality of education, with a strong focus on the role of Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA). Both sides explored potential collaborations between Malaysian and Turkish educational institutions, including academic exchanges, joint research programmes, and the development of shared academic initiatives.
“Malaysia-Türkiye relations in the education sector are already on a solid foundation, with various forms of cooperation between institutions of both countries covering academic exchanges, research, and joint programme development,” Dr. Ahmad Zahid said.
The leaders also discussed opportunities to expand cooperation in the halal industry, which could unlock greater economic benefits and new avenues for both nations.
Ahmad Zahid expressed hope that the meeting would further strengthen bilateral ties, delivering long-term gains for education, economic development, and the well-being of the people of Malaysia and Türkiye.
“Insya-Allah, this engagement will bring mutual benefits under the Malaysia MADANI framework,” he added.
The cordial meeting, held amid displays of national flags and official portraits, featured warm handshakes, group photographs, and moments of engagement that underscored the close friendship between the two countries.
This high-level visit reflects Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to international partnerships in human capital development and economic diversification.
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