Samenta: Malaysia's rise in global competitiveness reflects reform progress
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's climb to 23rd place in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2025 affirms the government's economic reforms and policy enhancements, said the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (Samenta).
Samenta president Datuk William Ng said the 11-spot jump, the highest among all participating economies, reflects notable progress in key competitiveness indicators. He added that government and business efficiency both advanced by eight ranks.
Ng said Malaysia has improved significantly in eradicating bribery and corruption, boosting private investment in research and development, reducing bureaucracy and strengthening employment.
"Malaysian businesses have demonstrated greater adaptability, productivity and innovation, making our companies more competitive.
"The country's strong economic growth, low inflation and healthy employment conditions all contribute to this upward trajectory," he said in a statement.
According to Ng, Malaysia's improvement is particularly noteworthy within the Southeast Asian context.
Among Asean members, Malaysia now outperforms Thailand (30th), Indonesia (40th) and the Philippines (51st).
"Our progress underscores our ability to implement reforms effectively and signals to investors and businesses that Malaysia continues to be a leading destination for investment and growth in Southeast Asia," he said.
In addition, Ng said more needs to be done to realise Ekonomi Madani's ambitious goal of breaking into the top 12 of the ranking by 2033.
To further enhance Malaysia's competitiveness and move up the ranking, Ng said the nation needs to strengthen digital transformation, improve skills and education, cut bureaucracy, provide policy consistency and boost research and development initiatives.
"Providing greater incentives and support for companies, especially small and medium enterprises, to leverage technology and innovate is key.
"Ensuring policy stability and reducing red tape will help businesses operate more efficiently and respond faster to market opportunities," he added.
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