Kuala lumpur: Austrian companies are keen to expand cooperation in hydropower development with Malaysia, offering advanced technology and expertise to support Putrajaya's ambitious renewable energy goals and to meet rising electricity demand from sectors such as data centres. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Austrian Ambassador to Malaysia, Gerhard Eisl, mentioned that these companies are also interested in setting up offices in Malaysia. He noted that a major Malaysian and Austrian automotive group are collaborating on electric vehicle development, aiming to elevate bilateral linkages significantly. Elaborating on hydropower, Eisl highlighted Austria's expertise in water-based renewable energy. Much of Austria's electricity is generated from hydropower sourced from mountain rivers and the Danube, Europe's second-largest river. The country is recognized as a leader in the production and export of hydropower technology and expertise, with a focus on sustainable development and innovation. Eisl stated, "Sev eral Austrian companies are already operating in Malaysia, and it's a win-win situation for both of us. With our renewable energy technology and your cooperation, we can achieve a lot, and we can expand our cooperation with Malaysia in this regard." Discussing bilateral business relations, Eisl described Malaysia-Austria ties as excellent, not only in foreign policy but also in trade and investment. More than 50 Austrian companies are currently operating in Malaysia, predominantly in high-value industries such as semiconductors, advanced technology, automobiles, and lifestyle consumer products. Key Austrian companies in Malaysia include AT and S, a manufacturer of high-end integrated circuits for the semiconductor industry; ropeway specialist Doppelmayr; technology group Andritz AG; SoftwareQ; KTM Motorcycles; and glass producer Swarovski. Eisl noted that Austrian investors, particularly in the electrical and electronics sector, are performing well and are eager to expand their operations, especially in Sel angor, Kuala Lumpur, and Penang. Eisl further mentioned that an Austrian company is expected to open an office in Kuala Lumpur by the end of March, with more set to follow. He emphasized the importance of supporting Austrian companies looking to invest or expand in Malaysia and highlighted ongoing cultural cooperation through the Asia-Uninet network, which involves nine Malaysian universities and 20 Austrian universities. In the EV sector, Eisl pointed out the collaboration between a major Malaysian and Austrian automotive group, noting the rapid expansion of the EV market in Europe, Austria, and Malaysia. He expressed confidence that more collaboration will follow, recognizing EVs as the future. Malaysia and Austria established diplomatic relations on August 6, 1962, and have since seen significant progress across various cooperation areas. Austrian exports to Malaysia reached 737 million euros in 2024, while Austrian direct investment hit a record 2.2 billion euros, making Malaysia Austria's top trade de stination in ASEAN.