U.S.-Malaysia Forum Strengthens Critical Minerals and Rare Earths Cooperation

KUALA LUMPUR, 15 October 2026 – The United States and Malaysia have taken another step towards strengthening cooperation in the critical minerals and rare earth elements (CM/REE) sector following a high-level forum hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur.

Held at The Ritz-Carlton, the forum brought together government officials, industry leaders, investors and financial institutions to discuss opportunities for developing diversified and secure supply chains. The event builds on the U.S.-Malaysia Critical Minerals Memorandum of Understanding signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in October 2025.

Key Quote:
“We are ready, willing and uniquely equipped to be the United States’ premier strategic partner in critical minerals and rare earths within the Indo-Pacific region,” said Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Arthur Joseph Kurup.

Critical Minerals

More than a dozen U.S. companies are currently exploring opportunities in Malaysia, including potential upstream projects with local partners and investment in midstream processing facilities. The discussions focused on expanding commercial cooperation, attracting investment and enhancing technology transfer to support the growth of Malaysia’s rare earths industry.

Arthur Joseph Kurup, highlighted the country’s strengths, including political stability, skilled talent and strong environmental, social and governance standards.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires David H. Gamble Jr. said American companies are prepared to support Malaysia’s ambitions, helping build secure supply chains that create jobs, investment and long-term economic growth for both countries.

#businessnews