By Media Selangor Team
SHAH ALAM, May 5 — Selangor is leveraging its strategic infrastructure, trade strength, and partnership with Japan to build a future-ready, AI-driven and sustainable economy, Menteri Besar Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said in his address to a global audience at the 2025 World Expo in Osaka, Japan.
Speaking at the opening of the Selangor Week, a key feature of the Malaysia Pavilion at the prestigious global event, Amirudin said the state's longstanding partnership with Japan — marked by over US$1.02 billion (about RM4.3 billion) in approved investments involving 208 projects in 2024 alone — demonstrates its expanding role in regional trade, high-tech manufacturing, and innovation.
"Since 1987, the presence of leading Japanese companies in Selangor stands as a testament to the confidence and trust Japan has placed in our state’s capabilities," he said in his special address today. His speech text was shared with the local media.
"Because of our long partnership with Japan, Selangor is stronger, smarter, and more connected. The exchange of ideas, expertise, and technology has propelled us towards a future that is digital, sustainable, and innovative.
"From high-tech manufacturing to smart cities and renewable energy, our collaboration with Japan has not only transformed our industries but also enriched the lives of our people."
Amirudin said Selangor's partnership with Japan in recent years has taken on greater significance, focusing on modern climate solutions and capacity-building initiatives to make the state, its universities, and local authorities more resilient and adaptable.
Looking ahead, he said Selangor is excited to explore new horizons with Japan, particularly in digital technology.
"This year, my administration aims to table a White Paper on AI in our State Legislative Assembly, to look at its entire framework, understand its threats and potential weaknesses ... to make AI complementary to human lives instead of being slaves to machines.
"Expo 2025 Osaka is an excellent platform for us to showcase Selangor’s commitment to building a future-ready economy driven by innovation and sustainability."
In his address, Amirudin also reiterated Selangor's ambition to be the gateway to Southeast Asia, citing its world-class infrastructure as a key driver.
He noted that the state is home to the 11th busiest port in the world, Port Klang; Malaysia's two largest airport terminals, KLIA 1 and 2; and the most extensive highway network in the country.
Meanwhile, the Menteri Besar lauded the role played by Expo 2025 Osaka, describing it as a renewed commitment to globalisation amid the ongoing global trade tensions initiated by the United States.
"This form of globalisation must address the core issue plaguing our current trading system, and that is the widening inequality which has led to a mindset and feeling of ‘Us against Them’."
The World Expo in Osaka takes place for six months from April 13 to October 13, and is estimated to draw over 28 million visitors throughout the event.
The Selangor Week, meanwhile, is scheduled from May 5 to 9 as part of the Malaysia Pavilion, with the state government planning immersive exhibits, cultural showcases, and business engagement sessions to attract foreign investment and partnerships.
