Europe must broaden trading partnerships, PL MEP Daniel Attard says

Labour MEP Daniel Attard has called on Europe to strengthen trade and strategic cooperation with Malaysia during a European Parliament delegation.

"At a time of geopolitical tension and intensifying competition between major powers, Europe must broaden its trading partnerships and reduce the economic dependencies that leave it vulnerable," Attard said.

He said Malaysia is an important partner in that effort. “We want closer cooperation to create new opportunities for businesses and workers, including in Malta.”

The visit took place in Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak

The visit took place in Kuala Lumpur and Sarawak. It came as the EU and Malaysia work towards concluding a free trade agreement designed to expand market access and create new opportunities for investment.

He highlighted that trade between the EU and Malaysia reached almost €50 billion in 2025.

Attard held talks with the Speaker of Malaysia's House of Representatives, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. He also met Sarawak's Deputy Premier, the EU Ambassador and ambassadors of EU Member States.

The discussions covered trade and investment, alongside cooperation in clean energy, transport, telecommunications, education and artificial intelligence

The discussions covered trade and investment, alongside cooperation in clean energy, transport, telecommunications, education and artificial intelligence.

The delegation also met representatives of Airbus, BMW, Ericsson, Stellantis and STMicroelectronics. They discussed the opportunities and challenges facing European businesses in the region.

Meetings with civil society in Kuala Lumpur addressed human rights and sustainability.

In Sarawak, the delegation visited Universiti Teknologi MARA's campus and its Erasmus+ centre, where talks focused on education and research cooperation.