On April 23–24, 2025, the Turkmenistan International Investment Forum (TEIF 2025) was held in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, in the newest KLCC complex. More than 470 delegates from 42 countries gathered under one roof to witness a new stage in the investment policy of Turkmenistan – a state with a stable, prosperous and dynamic economy.

From the very first step on the forum site, participants found themselves in an atmosphere of hospitality and inspiration. The entrance to the KLCC park was decorated with the national flags of Turkmenistan and Malaysia, and a Turkmen girl in national dress greeted the guests, presenting bread on a ritual sachak – a symbol of respect and openness. Echoes of Turkmen bakhshi melodies, a light aroma of coffee and a flower arrangement in national tones filled the space with the lively energy of anticipation.

Real work begins before the start: TEIF 2025 pre-forum sessions

As is often the case at major international forums, key processes began to unfold even before the official opening. The TEIF 2025 pre-forum sessions not only set the vector for future discussions, but also became a striking example of the integration of technology, education and energy to quickly find solutions to pressing problems.

The events were held in a constructive atmosphere and were devoted to the following topics: "The future of hydrocarbon production using artificial intelligence: unlocking the potential of oil and gas deposits" - where advanced technological approaches to improving the efficiency of exploration and production of resources were discussed and "Prospects for the development of the economic and investment potential of Turkmenistan and Malaysia: in focus - education, tourism and entrepreneurship" - where the participants considered new areas for bilateral cooperation and partnership.

 Start: ceremonial meeting and exhibition of possibilities

The official delegations of Turkmenistan and Malaysia arrived simultaneously, which gave the event a special solemnity. Before the plenary part, the delegations got acquainted with the exhibition, reflecting the versatility of the modern economy of Turkmenistan: from energy and transport to digital technologies and tourism. Panoramic windows of the exhibition area opened up a view of the famous Petronas Twin Towers - a symbol of progress in South-East Asia.

Official opening: where energy meets confidence

After a short coffee break, the participants moved to the forum hall. The hosts from Turkmenistan and Malaysia set the tone for the entire event: lively, friendly, inspiring.

“This forum is taking place at a special time, when regional cooperation is becoming the foundation of global growth. Turkmenistan is becoming a key player in shaping the future of global energy,” was noted at the opening, calling on the participants for an open dialogue and new partnerships.

The solemn moment came when the official address of the President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov was read out. It placed special emphasis on the country's desire for stability, prosperity and expansion of international ties in the investment sphere.

Global View: Messages from Leaders of Global Organizations

One of the key moments of the plenary session was the video messages from the leaders of the largest international energy associations.

Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, Executive Secretary of UNESCAP:

"Turkmenistan is well positioned to benefit from global energy and economic trends. Its rich natural resources, strategic location and commitment to economic diversification create an attractive investment climate, particularly for companies from Malaysia and ASEAN countries seeking to tap into new markets and partnerships".

Haitham Al Gais, Secretary General of OPEC:

"At OPEC, we value the evolving dialogue with Turkmenistan on platforms such as today's forum. We hope that this cooperation will continue, with a particular focus on facilitating producers' investment in the sustainable development of energy resources that the world urgently needs".

Fatih Birol,Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA):

"Turkmenistan is well positioned to take advantage of global energy trends. Its rich natural resources, strategic location and economic diversification efforts create an attractive environment for investors, especially for companies from ASEAN countries, seeking new opportunities in the international arena".

Conclusion of the Plenary Session: The Energy of Partnerships

Also speaking at the plenary session was Ms. Atsuko Hirose, Secretary General of the International Energy Charter. In her speech, she highlighted Turkmenistan's positive efforts and significant potential in ensuring energy security, promoting economic development and protecting the environment.

The session culminated with an inspiring address by Tan Sri Tengku Muhammad Taufik, President and Chief Executive Officer of PETRONAS, the title sponsor of the Forum. His words on the importance of unity and global cooperation in overcoming today’s challenges set the tone for the lively discussions on the sidelines.

Speaking at the plenary session, PETRONAS President and CEO Tengku Muhammad Taufik noted the growing strategic role of Turkmenistan in the global energy sector and emphasized the long-term nature of cooperation with Turkmenistan. The company has been operating in the country for almost 30 years, including signing the first Production Sharing Agreement and constructing a gas processing plant and terminal in Kiyanly with a capacity of 5 billion cubic meters of gas and 2.4 million tons of condensate per year. After a short break, the Forum resumed its work, starting with the first session: “New investment opportunities in the energy sector of Turkmenistan: natural gas and monetization”. It presented data on ongoing projects and analyzed new routes for the export of natural gas.

The program smoothly moved to the second session: “Accelerating the process of attracting investments in infrastructure projects of Turkmenistan with an emphasis on construction, transport, information technology and telecommunications.” The session was devoted to mutually beneficial investments in key infrastructure sectors. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan’s transport diplomacy and initiatives to revive the Great Silk Road, emphasizing the country’s strategic role in global and regional transport corridors. Participants were also introduced to the government’s long-term vision for economic diversification and large-scale construction projects aimed at the sustainable development of the national economy. The topics covered included: development of transport infrastructure, digitalization, telecommunications projects and the creation of new logistics hubs.

The first day of TEIF 2025 ended on an optimistic note: the halls of the KLCC Congress Center were filled with confidence that the forum had become a starting point for new large-scale investment projects and strategic partnerships between Turkmenistan and the international community.

The second day of the forum was devoted to practical issues and the exchange of experiences between the participants.

The program began with panel discussions on the topic of “Investment Opportunities in the Energy Sector of Turkmenistan: Oil and Petrochemicals.” The broad prospects for investment in the country's oil and petrochemical industries were discussed. Particular attention was paid to Turkmenistan's strategic course on the effective use of its rich hydrocarbon resources to stimulate economic growth, diversification and integration into global markets. A key element of this strategy was the program for the modernization of oil refineries, aimed at increasing refining capacity, improving product quality and expanding export opportunities.

The fifth session focused on energy decarbonization, renewable energy development, and digitalization of production processes. Representatives of international companies presented best practices in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, implementing energy storage technologies, and upgrading energy infrastructure. The presentations emphasized the importance of integrating innovative solutions for sustainable development of the industry.

In his video address to the final session, Francesco La Camera, Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), highlighted Turkmenistan’s potential for decarbonization, noting: “Turkmenistan, with its vast energy reserves and strategic location, has long been a key player in global energy markets. Now, as the world moves towards decarbonization and sustainable energy solutions, the country has the opportunity to take a leading position in the next generation of energy”

The forum concluded with an official closing ceremony, during which the results of the event were summed up.

Inspired by the wisdom of the Esteemed President of Turkmenistan, Hero Arkadagly Serdar, and the National Leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty of Turkmenistan Hero Arkadag, who invariably emphasize that the youth is the future of the country, the student of Sunway University made a response appeal to His Excellency, President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov. On behalf of all the participants of the forum, he expressed sincere gratitude and deep respect, continuing the noble traditions of forums organized by Turkmenistan at the national and international levels.

Within the framework of the forum, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the State Concern "Turkmennebit" and PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn. Bhd. The document provides for work on five exploration offshore blocks in the Turkmen sector of the Caspian Sea. The parties confirmed their commitment to developing mutually beneficial partnership in the oil and gas sector, based on the principles of equality, international law and national legislation. PETRONAS Carigali (Turkmenistan) Sdn. Bhd. signed a PSA with the Government of Turkmenistan in 1996 for exploration and production of hydrocarbons in Block 1 in the Turkmen part of the Caspian Sea with the Magtymguly, Diyarbakir and Garagol-Deniz fields. Since the start of the project in Turkmenistan, the company has produced 15 million tons of oil, 34.5 billion cubic meters of natural gas, and the total investment in the project amounted to $11.4 billion.

Participants highly appreciated the organization of the forum, its practical focus and the relevance of the topics discussed. Key conclusions and recommendations aimed at strengthening international cooperation, stimulating investment and promoting sustainable development of the energy sector were announced. The forum once again confirmed its importance as a key platform for dialogue between government agencies, the business community and international energy experts.

(The material was provided by the organizers of the forum).