PUTRAJAYA, April 18 — A strategic partnership between Malaysia and Australia on critical inputs such as rock phosphate will boost domestic fertiliser production and reduce the risk of food supply disruption.
The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry (MAFS) said the move supports rice and vegetable production, helping ensure stable supplies amid the ongoing global energy crisis.
Discussions between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday (April 16) were welcomed as a step to strengthen cooperation on agricultural input security.
"The leaders' understanding has produced a vital solution amid the global energy crisis and mounting pressure on raw material supply chains that risk food security," it said in a statement today.
Both leaders emphasised the need to secure basic agricultural inputs against global supply disruptions caused by geopolitical developments, which directly impact worldwide food production, it added.
The MAFS confirmed that Malaysia has secured an Australian commitment to supply critical minerals, particularly rock phosphate, which is a key fertiliser ingredient.
"In return, Malaysia can supply finished fertiliser products like urea to meet Australia's needs. This collaboration reflects a complementary approach: Australia as a major mineral producer and Malaysia as a producer of nitrogen-based downstream fertiliser products," it said.
Both parties have agreed to finalise implementation through further engagement with relevant agencies and key industry players, including Petronas, to ensure the collaboration is effective, sustainable and directly benefits the agricultural sector.
Beyond fertilisers, both countries have also agreed to expand cooperation in halal meat processing and trade.
The ministry affirmed that the MADANI government will continue prioritising domestic needs by ensuring a stable supply and protecting the agricultural sector and food security.
