France and Malaysia are set to strengthen their “sovereignty partnership,” focusing on security, defence, and emerging energy sectors to boost strategic autonomy.
French Ambassador Marc Abensour said the initiative aims to enhance both countries’ resilience amid growing global technological and security challenges. “Developing your own security and defence capabilities increases sovereignty and autonomy. France has a long-standing relationship with Malaysia in these sectors, and we aim to expand it further,” he explained.
The announcement came during the “French Security Days ASEAN 2026 – Malaysia,” organised by Business France, which showcased French security and cybersecurity technologies and facilitated networking and industrial partnerships with Malaysian stakeholders.
Beyond defence, the partnership is expanding into energy transition and critical minerals. Abensour highlighted cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and ASEAN power grid development, following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to France in July 2025. “France generates over 70% of its electricity from nuclear energy. We can share expertise on nuclear safety and inclusive management of such programmes,” he said.
He also cited a recent agreement between Malaysian firm Malaco Mining San Bha and French company Carester on critical minerals as an example of technology transfer supporting Malaysia’s global value chain growth while meeting ESG standards.
Jean-François Ambrosio, Director of Business France Malaysia, added that established French firms like Airbus and Sergi, along with newer companies, see Malaysia as a strategic regional hub. “Our next step is to help these companies find local partners and clients to build long-term operations in Malaysia,” he said.
