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Malaysia and Japan are embarking on a concerted effort to bolster their technological collaboration by formalising their partnership through a Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC). This MOC was officially inked between the Ministry of Communications and Digital in Malaysia and Japan’s Ministry of Domestic Affairs and Communications, signalling a commitment to enhancing their ties in the fields of broadcasting, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and postal and courier services.
The genesis of this cooperative agreement can be traced back to discussions that began in February, coinciding with the ASEAN Digital Ministers Meeting held in the Philippines. The MOC is seen as an extension of these discussions, aimed at furthering the exchange of expertise and information between the two nations in critical areas such as cybersecurity, the development of 5G networks, and the digital economy.
The Malaysia’s Minister of Communications and Digital lauded the MOC as a significant step in strengthening the existing relationship between the two countries. He emphasised the importance of addressing crucial aspects of technology, recognising that these domains hold the potential for significant growth and collaboration. The MOC formalisation took place in Seri Perdana, and it was attended by the Prime Minister and his Japanese counterpart, who is currently on a two-day visit to Malaysia.
The Malaysia’s Minister of Communications and Digital elaborated that the MOC is a prelude to more in-depth discussions scheduled to occur during a Special Meeting set to take place in Tokyo next month. This gathering holds particular significance as it coincides with Japan’s 50-year relationship with ASEAN. During this meeting, both countries will delve into greater detail, exploring opportunities for technological cooperation, sharing best practices, and aligning strategies for mutual benefit.
One of the key areas where Malaysia is keen to learn from Japan is the implementation of cutting-edge technology. For instance, Japan has successfully employed internet satellites as a backhaul for telecommunications in various locations. Malaysia, on the other hand, is at the proof-of-concept stage, and there is much to gain from Japan’s expertise in scaling up such initiatives. The MOC offers a promising platform for the exchange of knowledge and the potential adoption of suitable technology for implementation in Malaysia, which can significantly propel the nation’s technological advancements.
The Malaysia-Japan MOC marks a strategic step in furthering their technological cooperation. As both nations strive to keep pace with the rapid advancements in the digital landscape, this agreement promises to open new avenues for collaboration, innovation, and shared growth in critical areas of technology and communication.
OpenGov Asia reported earlier that in the first half of 2023, Malaysia attracted investments totalling RM132.6 billion (US$28.4 billion) across various sectors, setting a confident tone for its economic growth. These investments are projected to create approximately 51,853 job opportunities, a testament to Malaysia’s appeal to investors worldwide.
Malaysia’s investment climate is boosted by several factors:
- Pro-Business Policies: The Malaysian government is dedicated to fostering pro-business policies and continually improving the ease of doing business in the country.
- Strategic Location: Situated in Asia, Malaysia boasts robust growth potential, making it an attractive location for investors.
- Hub for Ecosystem and Supply Chain: Malaysia serves as a trusted hub for supply chains, capital, talent, goods, and data.
- Innovation Capabilities: The nation’s innovation capabilities are on the rise, further enhancing its attractiveness to investors.
