Italy–Malaysia relations: A cornerstone of Rome’s Indo-Pacific engagement
“Rome’s ability to position itself as a key partner for Putrajaya illustrates the important role that non-resident European middle powers can play in the region, moving beyond the prevailing emphasis on France and the United Kingdom that dominates current discussions. This development carries significance beyond national interests, reinforcing the European Union’s broader efforts to enhance engagement in regional affairs — a process that heavily depends on contributions from its member states.”
“The centrepiece of the three-day bilateral meetings was the Malaysia–Italy Economic Partnership Roundtable, which brought together over 50 major Italian companies, business associations and financial institutions, along with more than 30 Malaysian firms. Bilateral trade, currently standing at US$3.1 billion, is on the rise: up 9.3 per cent in 2024 compared to the previous year and 3.3 per cent in the first half of 2025. Within ASEAN, Malaysia is the second-largest market for Italian exports, accounting for 18.4 per cent of the total in the first quarter of 2025. The Italian government and companies are increasingly looking to expand in Malaysia — Southeast Asia’s third-largest economy and widely regarded as a gateway to the region.”
“From Malaysia’s perspective, stronger ties with Italy — the world’s eighth-largest economy, a G7 member and the EU’s second-largest industrial power — promise not only expanded trade but also greater access to technology transfer, advanced industrial machinery, and collaboration in green technologies and the energy transition. Mutual interest was evident during the visit, underscored by strong private-sector participation and Anwar’s satisfaction with Italy’s pledge to invest over US$1.8 billion in Malaysia.”