In Melbourne, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the potential for the Asean-Australia partnership to grow, particularly in supporting Asean’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and advancing its energy transition efforts.
During the Asean-Australia Special Summit in Melbourne, Anwar highlighted the need for increased collaboration, especially under the Asean-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, focusing on empowering MSMEs.
Speaking at the summit, Anwar underscored Malaysia’s commitment to developing MSMEs as key drivers of employment, innovation, and economic growth.
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He also mentioned Malaysia’s interest in Australia’s support to enhance Asean’s MSME ecosystem through digital transformation, capacity building, market access, sustainable practices, and ensuring equitable participation of MSMEs.
On the topic of climate change, Anwar shared Malaysia’s goal to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 through its National Energy Transition Roadmap, seeking collaboration with Australia in advancing the energy transition journey in Asean.
He stressed the importance of ensuring a just, inclusive, and fair transition for all, addressing issues such as climate finance, incentives, technology, and infrastructure.
Notably, Malaysia will host the first annual Asean Green Jobs Forum in Kuala Lumpur, supported by Australia, aimed at promoting green jobs and skills development in the region.
Anwar also highlighted the significance of Australia’s assistance in talent development through initiatives like the Asean TVET Council, advocating for expanded cooperation in areas like green technologies, Fourth Industrial Revolution, and artificial intelligence.
Additionally, Malaysia will co-host the Maritime Connectivity Forum with Australia and South Korea to enhance infrastructure capacity through discussions on port digitalization and automation, fostering connectivity in the region.
