London: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi met with the United Kingdom Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, to discuss bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and the UK. The meeting focused on key issues such as disaster management, clean water, and the integration of new technologies to better prepare for global climate change challenges.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, emphasized the importance of tackling issues that have direct impacts on human life. He highlighted the need for comprehensive approaches to address how global warming and climate change affect people. "While river pollution is a thing of the past here in the UK, it remains a problem in our country. Public awareness about this issue must be increased," Ahmad Zahid stated to reporters after attending a dinner with Malaysian students sponsored by Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) in the UK.

The meeting also explored cooperation in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme and the global halal industry. Ahmad Zahid expressed optimism about the potential to elevate Malaysia-UK cooperation to a more strategic level, aiming to build an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient future.

During his engagements, Ahmad Zahid stressed the significance of fostering a sense of belonging among MARA-sponsored students abroad, urging them to return and contribute to Malaysia's development. Despite the allure of higher average salaries in the UK, he reminded students of their crucial role in advancing the nation's progress.

Ahmad Zahid is on a four-day working visit to the UK, which is set to conclude tomorrow.