Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Turkmenistan President Serdar Berdimuhamedov witnessed the signing of a strategic partnership agreement between Petronas and Turkmenistan authorities on June 19, 2026. This marks a new chapter in bilateral economic and energy relations, coinciding with 30 years of Malaysia-Turkmenistan cooperation in the energy sector, a cornerstone of their ties [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
The agreements include a production sharing agreement allowing Petronas’ subsidiary, PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn Bhd, to acquire 100% interest in offshore blocks 19 and 20. These blocks hold some of the world’s largest natural gas reserves, including one of the largest gas fields globally [2, 5, 6, 7, 8]. Petronas also signed a cooperation agreement to conduct 2D seismic studies in northern offshore blocks to improve exploration evaluation and fill current data gaps [2, 5].
Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the significance of the energy partnership, saying it "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" [1]. He also noted the strong trust from Turkmen leadership in Malaysia’s energy expertise and talent, calling it "not just a major energy development plan, but also a reflection of the Turkmen leadership's confidence in Malaysia, Petronas, and our professionals" [6].
Petronas has invested RM52.73 billion in Turkmenistan since 1996. In 2025, Turkmenistan ranked as Malaysia’s fourth-largest trading partner among Central Asian countries, with bilateral trade reaching RM75.8 million, a 9% increase from 2024. Exports amounted to RM75.5 million [1, 3]. Approximately 177 Malaysians now reside in Turkmenistan, mostly PETRONAS Carigali staff and their families [2].
The cooperation between the two countries now extends beyond energy to sectors such as education, technical and vocational training, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, research, tourism, aviation, Islamic finance, and diplomacy [9, 5, 8].
Prime Minister Anwar completed a two-day official visit to Turkmenistan on June 18-19. He said the agreements and visit symbolize a strengthening of bilateral relations built on transparency, mutual trust, and complementarity. He expressed confidence the agreements would "elevate bilateral relations to a higher level to benefit the people and protect national interests" [9, 5, 6, 8].
