KUALA LUMPUR — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Petroliam Nasional Bhd’s (Petronas) involvement in developing one of the world’s largest gas fields in Turkmenistan reflects strong international confidence in Malaysia’s capabilities, political stability and the professionalism of its companies.
Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the agreements signed with the Turkmen government during his recent visit would allow Malaysia, through Petronas, to participate in the development of major gas resources in a country with some of the world’s largest gas reserves, Bernama reported.
“This reflects the confidence that other countries have in us, the peace we have achieved, the unity of our people, and the commitment of companies such as Petronas, the dedication of our professionals and our determination to develop the nation.
“It should encourage all Malaysians to recognise that vast opportunities are available if we remain focused on uplifting our standing through discipline, commitment and positive efforts towards development,” he said at the opening ceremony of MKS Instruments Malaysia at Bandar Cassia Technology Park in Batu Kawan today.
The agreements were concluded following Anwar’s two-day official visit to Turkmenistan, which began on June 18 at the invitation of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov. The visit also marked a reciprocal engagement following Berdimuhamedov’s trip to Malaysia in December 2024.
It was Anwar’s first official visit to Turkmenistan and the fifth by a Malaysian prime minister.
Petronas has been operating in Turkmenistan since 1996, building a long-standing energy partnership with the Central Asian nation.
Meanwhile, Anwar also welcomed the expansion of global technology firms in Malaysia, particularly in Penang, which he said is increasingly being recognised as a key regional hub for the semiconductor and high-technology sectors. — June 20, 2026