Kuala lumpur: Finland is offering its expertise in high technology, information and communication technology (ICT), connectivity, and cybersecurity to enhance collaboration with Malaysia amid growing demand in the data centre economy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Finnish Ambassador to Malaysia Anne Vasara highlighted Malaysia's significant role in the semiconductor industry and noted the rapid growth of the data centre economy, artificial intelligence, and related ecosystems. These developments have created substantial potential synergies between Finland and Malaysia.

Vasara emphasized Finland's interest in partnering with Malaysia and expressed optimism about the prospects for collaboration, particularly this year and beyond. She noted the shared commitment to upholding the international rules-based system and multilateralism, while Finland also focuses on sustainable development and climate change initiatives.

Finland ranks as Malaysia's 15th-largest trading partner within the European Union (EU), while Malaysia holds the position of Finland's third-largest trading partner in ASEAN. Malaysia aims to double its exports to Finland by 2030, focusing on sectors such as electronics, halal food, and green construction materials.

Malaysia's total trade with Finland increased by 1.5 percent to RM953 million (US$220 million) in the first seven months of 2025 compared to the same period last year. Vasara commented on the resumption of Malaysia-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations, suggesting it could be transformative for EU-Malaysia relations by facilitating new trade opportunities and fostering mutual understanding.

Vasara also pointed out the potential for collaboration in the halal industry, driven by the growing Muslim population in Finland, now approximately 2.5 percent. She identified a market opportunity for Malaysia due to the increasing demand and limited availability of halal products in Finland.

Highlighting green growth and sustainable construction, Vasara mentioned Finnish companies' interest in cooperating in these sectors. She discussed ongoing projects and the potential for collaboration in the bioeconomy, including the utilization of forestry and oil palm industry residues within the circular economy.