KUALA LUMPUR (Feb 10): Brazilian president Luis Inacio Lula da Silva has reiterated his interest in partnerships with Malaysia, especially in the semiconductor sector, in his phone conversation with Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Anwar spoke with da Silva on the telephone on Friday (Feb 9), where the two leaders spoke about expanding trade relations, the fight against inequality and hunger, calls for ceasefire in Gaza, and a reform of the global governance system, according to a statement by the Brazilian Embassy. 

Anwar was also invited by da Silva to Brazil, potentially close to the G20 Summit, which will take place in Rio de Janeiro in November. 

"The Brazilian president reiterated his interest in partnerships with the Asian country, especially in the semiconductor sector. Malaysia is home to six of the twelve largest semiconductor companies," the statement read. 

Brazil and Malaysia have an important partnership in another area, which is energy. Malaysian oil and gas company Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) has invested more than BRL (Brazilian reais) 24 billion (approximately RM22.93 billion) in Brazil. 

Citing the similarities between Malaysia and Brazil's energy transition journey, Anwar commented, "We really have similar problems, and we invest a lot in renewable energies and green hydrogen".

In 2023, Malaysia's exports to Brazil grew 7.2% year-on-year to RM5 billion, according to Matrade data. 

During the call, Anwar praised Brazil's actions on the international stage against social problems, and thanked the country for its support for a peaceful solution for Palestinians, as well as other issues in the Global South.