Malaysia Appreciates France's Support For Energy Transition Mission

From Arul Rajoo Durar Raj

PARIS, July 4 (Bernama) -- Malaysia appreciates France's support for the country's energy transition and economic transformation mission.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said it was achieved through the active involvement of French companies such as electric utility company Engie SA, integrated energy and petroleum company TotalEnergies SE and aerospace and defence giant Thales SA.

Anwar expressed the appreciation during his meeting with his counterpart François Bayrou here Friday morning.

Anwar, who is currently on a two-day official visit to France, said the meeting with Bayrou opened a new chapter in Malaysia-France relations.

During the meeting, both parties touched on various areas of strategic cooperation including high-value investments such as aerospace, semiconductors and automotive, clean energy cooperation, defence, education, and technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

“PM Bayrou and I then witnessed the exchange of three important documents that will strengthen Malaysia and France’s strategic cooperation across defence, economic and technological fields,” he said.

According to him, the memorandum of understanding between local mining company Malaco Mining Sdn Bhd and France rare earth refining and recycling expert Carester marks a major achievement in the development of Malaysia’s rare earth industry, in line with the country’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles and new energy initiatives.

He said the letter of offer to Thales also strengthens Malaysia’s airspace surveillance capabilities through two new long-range radars.

“Meanwhile, the collaboration between the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and Business France will boost the promotion of bilateral trade across strategic sectors such as aerospace, renewable energy and the digital economy,” he said.

Anwar said he also stressed the importance of the commitment of French aircraft manufacturer Airbus to the delivery of the A330 Neo aircraft that had been agreed with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), to ensure the continuity of operations and efficient investment.

AirAsia, Malaysia's low-cost airline, has also shown confidence in French technology through its commitment to acquire a number of Airbus aircraft, thus strengthening the aviation industry relationship between the two countries, he said.

Anwar said he was confident that relations with France, Malaysia's fourth largest trading partner in the European Union (EU), would continue to grow in line with shared aspirations towards sustainable growth and a more inclusive future.

The Prime Minister also said he had invited Bayrou to pay an official visit to Malaysia to strengthen the close ties between the two countries.

In 2024, bilateral trade between Malaysia and France reached US$3.63 billion (RM15.95 billion), with US$1.49 billion (RM6.26 billion) recorded for the period from January to May this year.

-- BERNAMA