Malaysia To Host AARDO International Training Programme 2025 - Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will host the African-Asian Rural Development Organisation (AARDO) International Training Programme in Langkawi, Kedah from July 15 to 22, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He added that 20 government officials from AARDO member states will participate in the eight-day programme, aimed at raising understanding about Malaysia’s rural development policies, especially in poverty eradication and boosting competencies in implementing development projects and to promote an inclusive and sustainable approach towards regional development.

“The programme will be vital in expanding strategic partnerships and strengthening Malaysia’s standing as a global development partner,” he posted on Facebook today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said that Malaysia, through the Institute of Rural Advancement (INFRA) and his ministry, remained active in contributing in terms of training and capacity development since being a founding member of AARDO in 1962.

“I hope the programme will be a bridge of knowledge and experience between Asian and African countries,” he added.

Set up in 1962 by five countries - Egypt, India, Japan, Libya and Malaysia - the organisation now has 33 members, 17 from Africa and 14 from Asia as full members and two associated members, and serves as a platform for joint discussions on rural development and agriculture in African and Asian countries.

Malaysia served as AARDO president from 2018 to 2020.

-- BERNAMA