Japan and Malaysia launching a new collaboration on Mining through JICA Technical Cooperation ~FORGING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE: MALAYSIA AND JAPAN LAUNCH HISTORIC MINING VALUE CHAIN COLLABORATION~

KUALA LUMPUR, 25^th February - The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) of Malaysia and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are proud to announce the official commencement of a landmark technical cooperation project aimed at revolutionizing the mining sector through sustainable practices and enhanced value chain development.

Following the signing of a Record of Discussion on 5 December 2025, both nations have entered into a strategic partnership titled “Capacity Development for Value Chain Development in the Mining Sector.” This initiative marks the first-ever technical cooperation of its kind between Malaysia and Japan within the mining industry.

The primary objective of this two-year project is to bolster Malaysia’s institutional and technical capabilities across the entire mining value chain. With a global shift toward green energy and responsible sourcing, the project places a heavy emphasis on environmental sustainability and the adoption of international best practices.

To ensure the project's success, JICA will deploy a team of high-level experts to work alongside Malaysian counterparts. These experts specialize in, Geology and resource assessment; mineral processing technologies and environmental management and mitigation strategies.

The official project kick-off is scheduled for 27 February 2026 at the inaugural Joint Coordinating Committee (JCC) Meeting in Putrajaya. This event will serve as the platform for relevant stakeholders and technical experts to align on strategic goals. Following the meeting, field activities and technical site assessments are slated to begin in March 2026.

JICA remains steadfast in its commitment to integrating environmental considerations into industrial growth. By leveraging Japan’s advanced technological experience, this collaboration will ensure that Malaysia’s mining sector develops in a manner that is both economically viable and ecologically responsible. This partnership underscores the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between Malaysia and Japan, paving the way for a resilient and future-ready mineral industry. (END)

About Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES):

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability is responsible for the management of natural resources, forestry, and the protection of the environment in Malaysia, ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

About Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA):

JICA is a governmental agency responsible for delivering the country’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). Its mandate is to promote international cooperation and support the socioeconomic development, recovery, and stability of developing regions. Japan’s ODA in Malaysia has started in 1956 and has contributed to the progress of Malaysia through infrastructure development and human resources development.

Media Contact:

[Name]: Mr. SHIBATA Yoshiaki
[Position/Department]: Team 2, Energy & Mining Group, Infrastructure Management Department, JICA Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan.
[Email Address]: imgne▲jica.go.jp
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For more information:

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
Malaysia Office, Kuala Lumpur.
Email Address: ms_oso_rep▲jica.go.jp
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(Attachment) Project Outline

Outline of Technical Cooperation “Project for Capacity Development for Value Chain Development in Mining Sector”

(1) Project Period: Two (2) years from the first arrival of the JICA expert(s) following the signing of the Record of Discussion (R/D), tentatively planned on 26^th February 2026.

(2) Overall Goal: To enhance Malaysia's critical mineral economic value chain ecosystem.

(3) Project Purpose: To establish development approaches for critical mineral resources through strengthened capacity in research and development (R&D) planning for critical mineral resources.

(4) Implementing Agency: Department of Mineral and Geoscience Malaysia (JMG), Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES)

(5) JICA Project Inputs:

1. Dispatch of Japanese experts in Geological survey, Mineral processing and Environmental studies to Malaysia;
   
   
2. Training in Japan: Short-term Training Program in Japan;
   
   
3. Equipment: Provision of equipment for geological survey such as Auger, Portable X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF); and
   
   
4. JICA provides necessary funds to support Japanese project experts’ activities including laboratory analysis and survey assistants.