25-04-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia retains top 10 spot in global high-tech exports
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has maintained its position as the ninth-largest exporter of high-technology goods among 143 countries in 2023, marking its highest placement in the past decade.
According to the Malaysia High Technology Performance Report 2023, the country's high-tech exports rose by US$2 billion to US$127 billion last year, contributing to a decade-high trade surplus of US$51.5 billion.
Malaysia's share of global high-tech merchandise exports also increased to 3.32 per cent, with the report noting that global high-tech exports grew by US$80 billion to US$3.83 trillion in 2023.
The report was produced by the Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT).
MIGHT president and chief executive officer Rushdi Abdul Rahim said telecommunications electronics remained the largest contributor, generating US$36 billion in export value.
He said other sectors showing strong growth potential include scientific equipment, office machinery, electrical machinery and aerospace surplus.
"Beyond directly contributing to the nation's aspiration to become a high-income, technology-based economy, this dynamic innovation ecosystem also strengthens Malaysia's position in achieving technological sovereignty.
"It also ensures the country is not only capable of utilising, but also mastering and controlling these strategic technologies," Rushdi added.
Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry (Mosti) secretary general Datuk Seri Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad reaffirmed the ministry's support for advancing Malaysia's high-tech landscape.
"Mosti is committed to expanding and strengthening the innovation ecosystem to ensure sustained competitiveness in all facets of nation-building, especially in the nation's high-tech sector," he said.
"The National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2021–2030 underscores this commitment, not only to transform Malaysia into a high-tech nation, but also to support Malaysia's transition from a user to a developer and creator of technology."
