Malaysia and Hungary Bolster Agricultural Ties and Food Security Ahead of MAHA 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 — Malaysia and Hungary are deepening bilateral cooperation in the agricultural sector and food security through strategic initiatives, including Hungary’s confirmed participation in the upcoming Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026.

Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu confirmed the commitment following a courtesy call by the Hungarian Ambassador to Malaysia, Dr. Sándor Sipos, today.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed key bilateral mechanisms, including the upcoming inaugural Malaysia-Hungary Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting, joint research initiatives between the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) and the Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), as well as strategies to expand cross-border trade and investment in the agri-food sector.

Highlighting the ongoing technical synergies between the two research bodies, Mohamad noted significant progress in livestock and crop development.

“The technical cooperation between MARDI and MATE continues to show positive development, including through the Erasmus+ Researcher exchange programme, research in the fields of genetics, breeding technology, and the development of high-quality livestock products,” Mohamad stated in a Facebook post today.

Mohamad added that the expanding partnership is expected to create new growth opportunities for local farmers, breeders, scientific researchers, and agri-food entrepreneurs in both nations through shared technological innovation, technical expertise, and operational experience.

He reiterated that Malaysia remains dedicated to strengthening its diplomatic and economic alliance with Hungary to accelerate national agri-food sector development and guarantee long-term food security.

–NMT