Malaysia, TÜrkiye Strengthen Polar Research Collaboration

PUTRAJAYA, Feb 12 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Türkiye have taken a significant step forward in scientific and logistical cooperation in polar research with the exchange of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at Seri Perdana Complex here yesterday.

The MoU was signed by Sultan Mizan Antarctic Research Foundation (YPASM) chief executive officer  Abd Shukor Jamaluddin and the president of the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye Marmara Research Center (TÜBİTAK MAM), Polar Research Institute (KARE), Prof Orhan Aydin, thus marking a new era of collaboration in Antarctic and Arctic research.

In a statement today, YPASM said the MoU was exchanged between Turkiye Minister of Industry and Technology Mehmet Fatih Kacır and Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, on behalf of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), which oversees YPASM.

“As a direct outcome of this MoU, one Malaysian researcher funded by the YPASM Research Grant has joined Türkiye’s Ninth National Antarctic Science Expedition (TAE-IX) team, which arrived in Antarctica on Feb 8.

“After completing its research at Türkiye’s research station on Horseshoe Island, Antarctica, the team aims to successfully conclude its mission on March 12,” it added.

Meanwhile, YPASM said this strategic partnership underscores the commitment of both nations to advancing scientific research in the polar regions, recognising the critical role these regions play in understanding global climate change and environmental sustainability.

The understanding outlines areas of cooperation, including joint research expeditions, academic exchanges, shared use of research facilities and equipment, including access to the Türkiye Antarctic Scientific Research Base in Antarctica and the promotion of scientific awareness through educational programmes.

“This MoU aligns with Malaysia’s vision to strengthen its role in global polar research while contributing to sustainable development goals.

“With this new collaboration, both countries are set to enhance their research capabilities and expand their impact on the international scientific community,” it said.

-- BERNAMA