In conjunction with the Independence Day the Ukraine established a consular office in Penang, the first outside of Kuala Lumpur.

Olexander Nechytaylo, its ambassador in Malaysia, said that it reflected the strong commitment of Ukraine to continuously expand friendships with Malaysia, emphasizing further trade, capital investment and cultural cooperation growth.

"Our economies are mutually complementary in so many ways. Ukraine has always been among the top importers of palm oil in Europe. 

"We stand firm on keeping our market free from any restrictions on this commodity. Additionally, in the first six months of 2020, our grain exports to Malaysia quadrupled, reaching almost US$50 million," he said in a statement.

Nechytaylo said that Penang had been the first state to visit since he became the Malaysian ambassador and that the state was seen as a magnet for tourism and business.

"Penang has the second largest number of Ukrainians living in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur and it is timely to have a consular office to serve the people here," he said.

He added that the Honorary Consul Datuk Seri Chuah Kim Seah will be heading the Ukraine Consulate at Penang.