Hishammuddin said the improved bilateral ties will help Malaysia to increase exports of palm oil and palm oil-based products to both countries, which will benefit Felda.

At a meet-and-greet session with Trolak Selatan Felda settlers and community leaders here today, he said he had asked palm oil industry players to provide feedback to boost exports.

He said the government was also looking at new potential markets for palm oil, especially in West Asia.

Hishammuddin reiterated Malaysia’s stand on not establishing diplomatic ties with Israel, while stressing that the country was still on good terms with the United Arab Emirates.

He said this in reference to UAE’s recent recognition of Israel, with both sides establishing diplomatic and economic relations.

On the Slim by-election, he said he was optimistic that Barisan Nasional candidate Zaidi Aziz, 43, would get the people’s support based on his character and leadership experience.

The Slim by-election is being held on Aug 29 following the death of incumbent BN assemblyman Mohd Khushairi Abdul Talib, 59, following a heart attack on July 15.

Zaidi will take on Amir Khusyairi Mohamad Tanusi, 38, an independent supported by Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s new party Pejuang, and another independent, S Sentharasekaran, 44.