KUCHING (April 2): The UK's decision to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) is anticipated to boost trade ties between Malaysia and the country.

Deputy Prime Minister and Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the ministry welcomes the UK’s initiative, and is looking forward to working closely with its new UK partners in the CPTPP. 

“Not just that we welcome UK into the CPTPP, we also welcome its Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch’s remarks on palm oil, where she rightly dispelled the myth of deforestation and the negative or untrue campaign regarding the commodity,” Fadillah said when met at a green bean porridge distribution programme here on Sunday (April 2).

Fadillah said the collaboration between both countries will also help to eliminate stigma and negative propaganda towards palm oil while promoting it as a healthy product.

In a statement on Sunday, he also said the UK’s move to join the CPTPP presents a great opportunity to strengthen Malaysia’s relationship with the country amid the significant prospects that the Indo-Pacific region offers trading partners.

The statement said that Malaysia's sustainable palm oil sector is well positioned to meet demand from consumers from the UK and Europe looking for more ethical alternatives to edible oils.

“The Ministry of Plantation and Commodities recognises the importance of protecting the environment and conserving biodiversity, and Malaysia is committed to helping its sustainable palm oil sector become even more environmentally friendly,” it said.

Meanwhile, Fadillah said Malaysia will continuously conduct engagement sessions with the European Union on the CPTPP to ensure they are fully aware of Malaysia’s commitment towards Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification.

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