The Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) started the KPK Week at the Malaysia Pavilion during Expo 2025 Osaka on a good footing via the signing of five key memoranda of understanding (MoUs) between Malaysian and Japanese entities. The move signals an accelerated push to boost sustainable trade, innovation and technology exchange in Malaysia’s core commodity sectors.

The agreements reflect a growing appetite for cross-border collaboration in areas ranging from green materials and palm oil innovation to market expansion for Malaysian black pepper and cacao.

Speaking at the launch, KPK Deputy Secretary General (Strategic Planning and Management) Datuk Abdul Hadi Omar said the event offers a valuable opportunity to position Malaysian commodities at the forefront of sustainable and value-added trade.

“These MoUs highlight our commitment to advancing environmentally responsible practices while enhancing trade synergies with Japan,” he added.

Among the MoUs signed are between Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) and Global Alliance to promote MSPO certification and responsible palm oil sourcing among Japanese corporations; MPOB and Panasonic Housing Solutions Co Ltd to develop insulation boards made from oil palm biomass; MPOB and Asano Gear Factory Co Ltd to improve the Cantaz harvesting tool; Saraspice Sdn Bhd and Vox Trading Co Ltd for the expansion of Malaysia’s premium Sarawak black pepper in Japan; and Green Advantex Sdn Bhd and SIIX Co Ltd for the exploration of kenaf-based advanced materials for use in high-growth sectors.

KPK Week (running until June 14) will feature business-to-business forums, product showcases and cultural events aimed at strengthening bilateral engagement in commodity innovation and sustainability.

To date, Malaysia has achieved over 65% of its RM13 billion trade and investment target at Expo 2025 Osaka, driven by unified efforts from 21 federal ministries and 70 agencies.