OSAKA, May 31 — Malaysia secured more than RM8 billion in potential investments and signed 20 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) through its participation at Expo 2025 Osaka, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who is also the energy transition and water transformation minister and chairperson of Malaysia’s National Organising Committee for Expo 2025, said this represents 61.54 per cent of the overall RM13 billion target for the six-month global exposition.
The investment deals involved a total of 101 companies.
“I am confident that with our coming initiatives over the next four months, we will not only surpass our target but also unlock new opportunities for Malaysians.
"The success of our participation will pave the way for job creation while further strengthening bilateral ties with Japan and other global partners.
“Together, we reaffirm Malaysia’s role as a trusted global partner in shaping a future built on innovation and collaboration,” he said at a press conference after officiating the opening ceremony of the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, today.
Also present at the opening ceremony were Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong, Malaysia Ambassador to Japan Datuk Shahril Effendi Abd Ghany and Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
In addition to the digital economy, Fadillah said the green economy, Japanese technologies, and global participation in Expo 2025 are key opportunities for Malaysia to explore.
He said these opportunities position Sarawak not only as a hub for green energy — leveraging its hydropower resources — but also as a central player in Malaysia’s Hydrogen Economy Roadmap and Energy Transition Roadmap.
On the signing of the 20 MoUs, Fadillah said the Malaysian Pavilion has facilitated several high-impact MoUs and strategic partnerships that reflect the country’s forward-looking approach to regional collaboration, sustainable development and technological advancement.
“These agreements cover a wide range of sectors, including renewable energy, digital, property services, biotechnology, caregiving innovation and infrastructure development.
“The key focus areas included efforts to support decarbonisation, advance green hydrogen solutions, strengthen dementia care capabilities and promote smart facility systems and sustainable materials,” he explained.
Collectively, the partnerships underscored the Malaysia Pavilion’s role as a hub for generating tangible economic outcomes, encouraging cross-border knowledge sharing, and reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a regional leader in clean technology, inclusive innovation and future-ready industries, said Fadillah.
Earlier, in his opening speech, Fadillah shared that the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 has surpassed 1 million guests this week.
Fadillah said Malaysia and Japan’s longstanding relations and strong ties extend beyond economic relations, encompassing a shared commitment to regional stability and cultural understanding.
He said the camaraderie between both countries has been carefully nurtured and strengthened over many decades, evolving into a truly comprehensive and robust partnership.
“From early collaborations in industrial development to contemporary partnerships in technology and education, the connections between our people and our nations are profound.
“Thus, major international events such as this provide an invaluable opportunity to deepen longstanding ties. By being here, we are not only showcasing Malaysia’s capabilities and ambitions but also engaging directly with the people of Japan and the wider international community."
Fadillah added that the global stage fosters mutual understanding, encourages meaningful dialogue, and opens new pathways for collaboration across shared areas of interest.
In line with the launch, the Malaysia Pavilion also unveiled its official mascot, Lina, a Malaysian girl who embarked on a journey of discovery and balance, guided by her older self through a future-inspired realm. Her evolving batik “selempang”, which transformed into songket, symbolises transformation, identity and hope.
Lina is a reflection of the next generation of Malaysians who are thoughtful, empowered and rooted in heritage while embracing global sustainability ideals.
Malaysia’s participation in Expo 2025 Osaka is led by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti), supported by 21 other ministries and approximately 70 agencies.
It centres on seven strategic sectors, namely, sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, smart living, green manufacturing, industrial reform, environmental management, and the halal industry.
The Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka spans 2,654.52 square meters across three floors, showcasing the nation’s diverse culture and dynamic economy.
With the theme “Weaving a Future in Harmony”, the Pavilion highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to a sustainable, inclusive and forward-looking future.
The Pavilion also serves as a hub for international collaboration and dialogue, as well as pocket talks, product launches, MoU signings and business matching sessions.
— Bernama
