TURKMENISTAN’S decision to hand over two major gas blocks to Petronas is an extraordinary development that reflects the country's confidence in Malaysia's capabilities in the global oil and gas industry.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the agreement, which was signed during his official visit to Turkmenistan, allows Petronas to be involved in the development of one of the world's largest gas fields.
According to him, the success is the result of strong diplomatic relations and Malaysia's reputation as a stable, peaceful and trusted country at the international level.
"Turkmenistan is one of the countries with the world's largest gas reserves and yesterday we signed an important agreement that allows Petronas to operate two major blocks involving one of the world's largest gas fields.
“Alhamdulillah, this is very good news for the Malaysian people and shows the extraordinary confidence of foreign countries in our capabilities,” he said when delivering a speech at the Opening Ceremony of MKS Instruments Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Penang, today.
Anwar added that the success did not happen by chance but rather was the result of Malaysia’s continued commitment to establishing good relations with various countries regardless of geopolitical blocs.
“Petronas, which has been operating in Turkmenistan for almost 30 years, is now given a greater opportunity to expand its operations following the high trust given by the country.
“The development also proves the ability of Malaysian companies to compete and play an important role in the global energy industry.
“This is the result of our hard work, commitment and determination to be friends with all countries and build mutually beneficial cooperation,” he said.
It was earlier reported that Malaysia and Turkmenistan agreed to strengthen cooperation in the energy sector in addition to expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, transportation, education and technology following Anwar's official visit to the country.
In a joint statement issued after the visit, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties and exploring new areas of cooperation for mutual economic growth.
The oil and gas sector was among the main focuses of the discussions, with both leaders recognising Petronas' three-decade operations in Turkmenistan and its contribution to the country's energy industry.
Both parties also welcomed the signing of several agreements involving Petronas and Turkmenistan's state-owned energy company, including cooperation aimed at expanding upstream oil and gas activities and supporting the development of the country's hydrocarbon resources. – June 20, 2026
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