Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 20 September 2024 – A delegation from KLCoE led by Mr. Samer Elesawi undertook a courtesy visit to the Malaysian Agricultural Research Development Institute (MARDI). The visit was received by Dr. Mohamad Zabawi Abdul Ghani, Director General of MARDI.

MARDI was established in 1971 with the main objectives of generating and promoting new, appropriate, and efficient technologies for the advancement of the food, agriculture, and agro-based industries. The discussion centered around previous collaborations between both parties, including the Livestock Breeding Project in 1993, MARDI's receipt of the IsDB Prize in Science & Technology in 2011, and a Reverse Linkage project with Suriname on rice production in 2016. Additionally, potential collaborations in agritech and innovation, food security, sustainability, the green economy, climate change, and technical cooperation among IsDB member countries were also deliberated.

The delegation also visited the Malaysia Agriculture Horticulture & Agrotourism (MAHA) Expo 2024, an annual event organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS). Since its establishment in 1923, MAHA has become Southeast Asia's premier agricultural exhibition, celebrating Malaysia's rich farming heritage. Over the past century, it has evolved to embody innovation and resilience in agriculture, promoting sustainable practices and bridging the urban-rural divide. Through a variety of exhibitions and activities, the Expo educates and inspires visitors about the vital role of agriculture.

During their visit, the KLCoE delegation had the opportunity to meet with the Hon. Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Datuk Seri Mr. Mohamad Sabu.