Latest news with #NikkeiForumMediniJohor
New Straits Times
12 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Anwar: Foreign policy must prioritise national interest, not foreign pressure
ISKANDAR PUTERI: Malaysia has always prioritised national interest in its foreign policy and will not be dictated by external powers, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the two-day Nikkei Forum Medini Johor at Sunway BigBox today, Anwar said the country's approach to international engagement must be guided by its own needs and remain free from any interference. "Our relationship with the United States must remain strong. "But no one can dictate that we be too friendly to the US, China, or Japan. "We are an open trading country, and our policies must reflect the best interests of our people," he said. Anwar, who is also finance minister, reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to a principled and multilateral trade approach, noting that while the US remains the country's largest export destination, Malaysia will not condone unilateral tariff actions. "Malaysia will continue strengthening relations with Asean countries, China, Japan, Korea, and other regional allies," he said. He noted that 60 per cent of Malaysia's exports currently go to the US, making it the country's top trading partner. However, he stressed that the government draws a firm line when it comes to policy. "We do not endorse or support any unilateral action. Despite our close ties, Malaysia does not condone the imposition of tariffs," he said. Malaysia, he added, will continue to engage with China, South Korea, Japan, and other Asean allies to defend a rules-based multilateral trading order. Anwar also said that the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) as a regional game changer that has drawn strong interest from investors in Japan, China, South Korea, and the European Union. He described the zone as "a collaboration between two countries based on total trust". "The zone is quickly becoming an international investment magnet due to its strategic infrastructure, political stability, and clarity of policy," he said. Touching on global trends, Anwar criticised the rise of protectionism, saying many decisions today are driven by political and economic arrogance. "Decisions today are often made based on greed and military might, not values, ethics, or justice," he said, urging governments to centre governance and trade on ethics and human values. He also reaffirmed Malaysia's strong ties with China, pointing to back-to-back visits from President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang as evidence of strong bilateral confidence. "Few countries can boast of that kind of access. "China has been consistent in offering investment, technological transfer, and trade cooperation, much like Japan has done for decades," he said. Citing Malaysia's industrial master plan, energy transition roadmap and digital ambitions, Anwar said what sets the country apart is its resolve to act with urgency and reform. In a rare moment of reflection, he acknowledged past weaknesses in governance and pledged his administration's commitment to clean and effective leadership. "I assure you, my Cabinet has the humility to accept criticism and make necessary adjustments. We are not living in a perfect world," he said.
The Star
a day ago
- Business
- The Star
Johor offers ideal ecosystem for AI and green investments, says exco
ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor offers a fully integrated ecosystem with high-performance tech infrastructure, renewable energy solutions, and regulatory clarity, making it an ideal destination for investments in AI, green data centres, fintech, and more. Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs, and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han stated that Medini, is a smart city that has attracted over RM13bil in cumulative investments, including healthcare, education, business services, and smart infrastructure. It is currently hosting the inaugural two-day Nikkei Forum Medini Johor 'Subnational regions like Johor are more important than ever. 'We are not just passive beneficiaries of policies; we are active participants in driving the growth of our countries and regions,' he said during his closing speech on day one of the forum on Wednesday (June 18). He said initiatives like the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) illustrate how targeted policies can unlock cross-border synergies in trade, talent, and technology, creating a seamless ecosystem for high-value industries. By focusing on execution, infrastructure readiness, and investor confidence, Johor demonstrates that growth can be decentralised and that real transformation often happens where industries operate and people live. Lee noted that forum speakers discussed the need to deepen regional cooperation, emphasising sustainability and the critical role of technology and innovation, particularly AI and digital platforms. 'One key takeaway is that Asia, with over 4.7 billion people, will remain the world's manufacturing hub and is also emerging as its innovative engine. 'In this era of uncertainty, investors and innovators seek environments where rules are transparent, decisions are predictable, and institutions are stable. Johor is ready to offer these,' he added. The forum is expected to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Thursday (June 19 and has about 800 participants and delegates attending in person and online for discussions and fireside chats. Themed "Driving Asia's Innovation Hub," the event brings together thought leaders, policymakers, corporate leaders, and investors from across Asia and beyond.
