Kuala lumpur: Belgium is keen to strengthen collaboration with Malaysia in offshore energy, leveraging its expertise in offshore energy as both countries pursue the green energy transition. Belgium Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Affairs and Development Cooperation, Maxime Pr©vot, said offshore energy is among the sectors with strong potential for bilateral cooperation, alongside semiconductors, logistics, clinical trials, biotechnology research and development as well as pharmaceuticals.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Pr©vot highlighted that there is a significant opportunity for collaboration between Belgium and Malaysia in the offshore energy sector. Despite having only 60 kilometres of coastline, Belgium has successfully developed offshore wind farms capable of generating two gigawatts of electricity. Pr©vot noted the country's plans to increase this capacity to six to seven gigawatts, which is equivalent to five to seven nuclear power plants, in the coming years.
Pr©vot emphasised that expanding offshore wind capacity underscores Belgium's commitment to energy security and decarbonisation. During his ministerial address at the 39th Asia-Pacific Roundtable, he shared that the European Union (EU) and its member states plan to mobilise £10 billion (pound 1=RM4.65) under the Global Gateway Strategy to support the ASEAN Power Grid and the region's energy transition. This initiative reflects the EU's dedication to investing in long-term, sustainable, and locally beneficial development while strengthening regional connectivity and resilience.
The Belgian deputy prime minister stated that the EU's support for the ASEAN Power Grid and regional energy transition aligns with a commitment to sustainable growth and resilience across the region. He mentioned that stronger cooperation in clean energy between Europe and ASEAN could accelerate the green transition.
Pr©vot's visit to Malaysia marks his first since assuming office in February 2025. Total bilateral trade between Malaysia and Belgium amounted to RM9.74 billion in 2025, with RM6.85 billion in Malaysian exports and RM2.89 billion in imports. As of 2025, 67 projects with Belgian participation had been approved, involving investments worth RM5.1 billion and creating 4,605 jobs.