The British High Commission in Kuala Lumpur invited proposals from research institutions, think tanks and consulting firms for a study on opportunities for UK engagement in Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Perak, according to a notice published on 6 August 2026. The maximum budget for the research project was £15,000. The study was to be completed with all deliverables submitted by 31 January 2027.

The commission described the UK-Malaysia relationship as a strategic partnership covering economic growth, trade and investment, innovation, clean energy, education, advanced manufacturing, digitalisation and regional security. It cited the UK's accession to the CPTPP and the UK-Malaysia Joint Economic and Trade Committee, which identified priority areas including education, agriculture, standards and conformity assessment, legal services, SMEs, Islamic finance and emerging sectors.

Tenders were due by 11:59pm Malaysia time on 21 August 2026. The commission said the supplier should demonstrate familiarity with the Northern Region's economic and political landscape, understanding of federal-state and regional governance, and experience in policy research and stakeholder consultations.