Kota Kinabalu: Hungary and Malaysia, particularly Sabah, have broad prospects for cooperation in sustainable agricultural development, technology transfer, research and innovation, as well as the utilisation of agricultural waste for renewable energy development, said Hungarian Ambassador to Malaysia Dr. Dr. Sándor Sipos.
He said the increasing volume of agricultural waste has become a shared global challenge, making effective waste management and resource utilisation increasingly important.
According to him, research collaboration and technology sharing in converting agricultural waste into green energy would not only help reduce environmental burdens but also create new economic value.
Sándor was speaking during his official visit to Sabah, during which he paid a courtesy call on State Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Industry Minister Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.
During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and reviewed the long-standing historical and cultural ties between Hungary and Sabah, noting that the enduring friendship between their peoples had laid a strong foundation for deeper cooperation.
Discussions focused on agricultural modernisation, sustainable development and the green economy, with both parties agreeing that technology transfer in sustainable and renewable energy production should be a key area of future collaboration.
Sándor said Hungary has extensive experience in agricultural technology, waste management, biomass energy and green energy technologies, and expressed hope that closer cooperation would help identify practical solutions for converting agricultural waste into renewable energy.
He said stronger bilateral ties would enhance the exchange of technology and knowledge while contributing to economic development, environmental protection and food security, adding that both sides also discussed the treatment and resource utilisation of agricultural and household waste, as well as broader directions in sustainable agriculture and renewable energy development.
Sándor also revealed that the Hungarian Government offers 40 scholarship places to Malaysia annually and expressed hope that more students from Sabah and Sarawak would pursue higher education in Hungary, further strengthening cooperation in education and talent development, while Honorary Consul of Hungary in Malaysia Datuk Damien Chua was also present.
