KUALA LUMPUR: A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) Concerning Strategic Civil Nuclear Cooperation between Malaysia and the United States was signed on 10 July 2025 on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM).
The signing of the MoU had witnessed the Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Utama Mohamad Hasan representing Malaysia while Secretary of State Marco Rubio for the United States.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the MoU represents an important milestone in US support for Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its capabilities in the nuclear energy sector.
“The MoU will facilitate cooperation in areas such as technical expertise, regulatory development, human capital training and the use of nuclear technology in sectors like agriculture, industry and healthcare,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, Mohamad in his speech had expressed his appreciation to Marco Rubio for choosing Malaysia as his inaugural stop on his first visit trip to Asia since assuming his role as Secretary of State in January 2025.
The minister also conveyed Malaysia’s readiness to begin discussions on a 123 Agreement to strengthen cooperation on nuclear technology between both countries.
The signing reflects the shared commitment of Malaysia and the United States to advance their Comprehensive Partnership and explore new areas of collaboration in addressing global challenges.
At the event, Malaysia seized the opportunity to reaffirm its unwavering commitment to its crucial role as a coastal state.
Mohamad underscored this priority and announced that Malaysia is actively formulating new regulations designed to tighten enforcement against illegal ship-to-ship (STS) transfers within its waters. These changes are expected to take effect by the end of July 2025.
