Malaysia-Japan ties were upgraded from an “enhanced partnership” to a “strategic partnership” in 2015.

“We wish to propose upgrading our ties from a strategic partnership to a comprehensive strategic partnership,” said Ismail at a meeting at the Japanese prime minister’s office.

This is the first meeting between Ismail and Kishida since they assumed their posts in 2021. They had previously held the Japan-Malaysia conference via telephone on April 20.

Today’s meeting was held in conjunction with Ismail’s official working visit to Japan. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Look East Policy, which has contributed to strengthening bilateral ties between Malaysia and Japan.

Three pacts on aerospace cooperation

Ismail also witnessed the signing of three agreements with Japan for creating a sustainable supply chain for the aircraft industries of both nations.

The international trade and industry ministry said the National Aerospace Industry Corporation Malaysia will be the main focal point for the initiatives particularly in engineering and design; aerospace manufacturing; maintenance, repair and overhaul; research and technology; and human capital development.

One key target is the adoption of advanced technology and digitalisation that is pivotal to achieving a sustainable supply chain — where the transformation is necessary for companies, suppliers as well as the service and utility providers.

The Malaysian aerospace industry is poised to contribute an annual revenue of RM30 billion and create 30,000 highly skilled jobs by 2025, the ministry said.