SEKINCHAN: Taiwan's young agricultural ambassadors visited farms here today to boost ties between the nations.
The ambassadors, hosted by the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Office (Malaysia), talked with farmers, explored farming techniques and discussed the industry's drive for innovation.
Political affairs director Benjamin Hong said the delegation's visit aimed to boost government-to-government relations and explore economic opportunities.
He said Taiwan was eager to share its expertise and technology in rice farming to boost Malaysia's agricultural productivity.
"Rice production is a key area of common interest between our countries, and Taiwan sees significant potential for collaboration.
"By working together, we can benefit from shared knowledge and innovation."
Hong added that agro-entrepreneurs were interested in entering the Malaysian market.
"We need to address practical challenges, such as culture, storage and logistics.
"This visit offers a chance to build connections and establish relationships with the community."
Farmer Lin Pei-Ying, a Taiwanese agro-entrepreneur, said her time in Malaysia had highlighted the significant role agriculture played, "much like in Taiwan."
"I have a fruit farm, so I'm here to deepen my understanding of how Malaysians prefer their fruit and to explore opportunities for collaboration."
Another participating ambassador, Jiang Tasi-Jung, expressed his interest in agricultural waste management.
"Addressing agricultural waste is key to achieving sustainability in agriculture."
The group's week-long visit included meetings with representatives from the Agricultural and Food Security Ministry, the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (Mardi) and Universiti Putra Malaysia.