PARIS/KUALA LUMPUR – In a major boost to Franco-Malaysian relations, Malaysia has placed a landmark order for 70 aircraft with Airbus, one of Europe’s largest aerospace manufacturers. The announcement was made during Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to Paris, signaling deeper cooperation between the two nations in both commercial aviation and strategic sectors.

“Airbus was our focus—20 for Malaysia Airlines and another 50 for AirAsia,” said Anwar during a joint press briefing on Friday, July 5, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace.

President Macron hailed the agreement as a “historic collaboration” and emphasized its significance not only for the transport sector but also for broader industrial ties between Europe and Southeast Asia. “This partnership strengthens the bridge between our continents,” he noted.

Deal Highlights Aviation Expansion Strategy

The purchase, valued at an estimated $10–12 billion, marks one of Malaysia’s largest-ever aerospace acquisitions and reflects the country’s intent to modernize its national fleet and boost regional air travel capacity.

• Malaysia Airlines will acquire 20 wide-body jets to replace aging aircraft and expand long-haul routes.
• AirAsia, the continent’s leading low-cost carrier, will receive 50 narrow-body aircraft aimed at growing its regional network across ASEAN and South Asia.

Industry analysts describe the move as a signal of growing confidence in the region’s post-pandemic air travel rebound, with Southeast Asia expected to be one of the fastest-growing aviation markets globally through 2030.

Strategic Cooperation: Beyond Aerospace

Beyond the aircraft deal, the leaders discussed expanded cooperation in rare earth minerals—critical to the global green economy—and joint initiatives in the energy transition, including renewable energy investments and clean technology transfer.

Malaysia, rich in rare earth reserves, is seen as a key partner in Europe’s efforts to diversify supply chains away from China. Macron confirmed that French energy and mining companies will be increasing their presence in Malaysia, particularly in sustainable extraction technologies.

Anwar, for his part, reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to being “a reliable partner in both economic and environmental progress.”

Recalibrating Global Partnerships

The visit to Paris comes amid a broader foreign policy recalibration by Malaysia, as it deepens ties with both Eastern and Western powers. In recent months, Malaysia has strengthened economic and diplomatic links with Russia and China, but the Airbus deal underscores Kuala Lumpur’s pragmatic strategy of diversified engagement.

As geopolitical rivalries intensify, Malaysia appears increasingly focused on building flexible, non-aligned partnerships that prioritize national development and technological sovereignty.

A New Chapter in Franco-Malaysian Relations

With the Airbus order as a centerpiece, Anwar’s Paris visit marks a turning point in Franco-Malaysian ties, laying the groundwork for long-term industrial and strategic cooperation. Both leaders described the partnership as one rooted in “mutual respect and forward-looking innovation.”

The aircraft deliveries are expected to begin in late 2026, with further joint announcements anticipated later this year, particularly in green infrastructure and strategic supply chain development. (zai)