Zahid explores maritime hub, defence ties with Turkish consul

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi held talks with Turkey's consul general in Bursa during a visit to the Turkish city, focusing on bilateral opportunities across multiple sectors. The discussions centred on establishing a ship maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hub in Bagan Datuk, Perak, which could leverage Malaysia's strategic maritime location and strengthen regional shipping infrastructure. The facility would position Malaysia as a key service centre for vessel operations in Southeast Asia, complementing existing port capabilities and supporting regional trade routes. Beyond maritime development, the two officials explored deepened defence cooperation and shared interests in the halal industry, reflecting both nations' commitment to expanding trade and security partnerships. The engagement underscores Malaysia's efforts to strengthen ties with Turkey across economic and strategic domains, building on the countries' longstanding bilateral relationship and shared regional interests in the Indo-Pacific.