INTERVENTION BY DATO’ SERI UTAMA HAJI MOHAMAD BIN HAJI HASAN MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, MALAYSIA CRITICAL MINERALS MINISTERIAL MEETING WASHINGTON, D.C. 4 FEBRUARY 2026

INTERVENTION BY

DATO' SERI UTAMA HAJI MOHAMAD BIN HAJI HASAN

MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, MALAYSIA

CRITICAL MINERALS MINISTERIAL MEETING

WASHINGTON, D.C.

4 FEBRUARY 2026

Mr. Chair,

Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Malaysia thanks the United States, for the opportunity to participate in the discussion on critical minerals.

2. As part of the global critical minerals supply chain, Malaysia recognises the shared interest of all countries, in ensuring stable and reliable supply chains.

3. We hope today's dialogue will provide a platform, to exchange perspectives and advance practical cooperation, while recognising and respecting different national circumstances, and development priorities.

Mr. Chair,

4. Malaysia views critical minerals as an increasingly important enabler, of industrial activity and technological advancement, in the global economy. We recognise the need for supply arrangements, that are credible and dependable.

5. Malaysia, therefore, seeks to work with partners to move beyond a purely extractive role, and towards higher levels of value creation, that are commercially viable and sustainable over time.

Mr. Chair,

6. Reliable critical mineral supply chains, cannot be created by declaration alone.

7. Investment is what turns potential into real and lasting supply. Without sustained investment, resources remain undeveloped, projects stall, and supply cannot be brought to market in a reliable way.

8. In this context, Malaysia places emphasis, on attracting long-term and value-oriented investment, that strengthens value creation, alongside upstream development. This includes investment that supports processing, and stronger participation, by domestic enterprises.

9. Malaysia welcomes cooperation with governments, development finance institutions, and the private sector, to mobilise capital, technology, and expertise, through commercially viable arrangements. Such cooperation helps translate potential into dependable supply, and supports broader industrial development.

10. At the same time, investment decisions are shaped by confidence in the operating environment. Where uncertainty persists, investment tends to slow, affecting the pace at which supply can be developed.

11. In this regard, predictable policies and regulatory clarity, help reinforce confidence for long-term investment.

12. Cooperation that supports infrastructure, skills, and appropriate technology use, can also enable broader participation in processing and other value-added activities, while circumstances.

13. Malaysia believes that a pragmatic approach remains essential. Effective governance, capacity building, and respect for national development choices, are important in supporting steady progress.

14. Ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of critical minerals is a shared responsibility. Progress depends on cooperation that builds confidence, while recognising different national circumstances.

15. Malaysia will continue to promote a conducive, and investment-friendly environment, and remains committed to constructive engagement with all partners, in support of resilient global supply chains.

Thank you.