Tokyo: The official visit of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Japan focuses on efforts to strengthen bilateral economic relations, particularly in attracting investment and trade, as well as high-tech sectors that have a direct impact on the people's economy. He said Malaysia highlighted several key priorities in the meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, including high-value investments, new technologies and cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, besides the official ceremonial events, Anwar emphasized the importance of advancing Malaysia's interests in investment and high technology, including AI. The Prime Minister underscored the need for cooperation and support not only from the Japanese government but also from major Japanese companies.
Anwar highlighted positive developments in energy cooperation between Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) and the Japanese partner JERA Co Inc, involving the supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG), which was secured through a long-term agreement. This cooperation is seen as strengthening Malaysia's position as an industrial player in the natural gas sector while meeting Japan's long-term energy needs.
On trade and investment, Anwar noted an increase in trade value, with Japanese investment in Malaysia amounting to RM107.9 billion through more than 2,800 manufacturing projects, creating over 347,000 job opportunities, based on data from the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry last year. The visit also included meetings with major Japanese companies like Mitsubishi Corporation, ENEOS Corporation, DENSO Corporation, and Marubeni Corporation to explore opportunities for expanding cooperation and investment in Malaysia.
During a meeting with an IBM representative, Anwar stated that Malaysia is focusing on the development of quantum technology through collaboration with IBM, one of the world's leading companies in quantum computing. He mentioned that IBM's decision to expand its technology-related initiatives places Malaysia on par with several major global technology hubs such as the United States, Japan, India, Singapore, and Taiwan.
The Prime Minister shared plans to discuss with the Cabinet the need to hold the National Quantum Council after it has been reviewed by the respective ministries. Anwar also leveraged the close network of Tan Sri Mohd Hassan Marican, who has connections with several companies in the Japanese oil and gas sector, to further strengthen the strategic cooperation between the two countries.
Participation in the Nikkei Forum, a key platform in Japan, has strengthened relationships with political leaders, business leaders, media, and policymakers. An invitation from the President of the University of Tokyo to deliver a special lecture was also utilized to hold a dialogue session with the university community on new technologies, particularly AI and its implications for humanity. Anwar noted the long-standing academic ties between the University of Tokyo and the University of Malaya, urging that their cooperation be expanded into new fields, including AI with the International Islamic University Malaysia.
The Prime Minister and his delegation departed for Malaysia, concluding his first official visit to Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun.