Latest news with #RM378.5
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia remains attractive investment destination
MALAYSIA continues to draw strong investor interest despite global headwinds. The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) said that the country has secured RM89.8 billion in approved investments for the first quarter of 2025. This marks a steady 3.7 per cent year-on-year increase, and is set to generate over 33,300 new employment opportunities for Malaysians. Last year, Malaysia recorded RM378.5 billion in approved investments, the highest in the nation's history. According to MIDA, foreign investments dominated the investment landscape for Q1 of 2025, contributing RM60.4 billion or 67.3 per cent of total investments, highlighting Malaysia's position as a top-tier investment destination. REMAINING RESILIENT Although Malaysia cannot escape shifts in the global economy, the country can prepare and remain resilient. Economist Dr Geoffrey Williams said national stability — reflected in stable prices, consistent growth and predictable policies — is key to maintaining business and household confidence. He added that such stability, supported by social cohesion and clear policies, underpins Malaysia's economic resilience and competitiveness. Universiti Sains Malaysia political analyst Professor Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said that stability builds trust and confidence, especially among investors and in terms of attracting foreign direct investment. "Without stability, it sends various signals to investors, as though the environment is uncertain and trust in the government is eroding, even if much of it is sentiment or perception," the analyst added. He said that the end result always becomes a benchmark or indicator of the government's strength. "Political rhetoric, when backed by implementation, delivery systems, structures or trusted institutions that produce solid results, will attract investors, even more so if the policy is investor-friendly, with a flexible approach and mechanism," he explained.
The Sun
05-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
M'sia's strong fundamentals will weather global shocks: PM
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured Parliament that Malaysia remains resilient in the face of global economic uncertainties, including the recent announcement of retaliatory tariffs by the US. He said Malaysia's solid economic fundamentals, strengthened by ongoing reforms under the Madani Economic Framework, has positioned the country to navigate both current and future challenges. 'With a resilient domestic economy and strong confidence, we are not easily swayed by external pressures or overwhelmed by global challenges. 'We have the figures and data, which can be managed and used wisely.' Anwar highlighted Malaysia's strong macroeconomic performance in 2024, with GDP growth at 5.1%, surpassing the Budget 2024 forecast of 4.0–5.0%. This, he said marks a significant improvement from the 3.6% recorded in 2023. 'We are confident in our trajectory. The macroeconomic data, including the projected reduction of the fiscal deficit from 5.5% in 2022 to 3.8% in 2025, shows that our strategies are working.' Anwar also noted that approved investments hit a record RM378.5 billion in 2023, the highest in Malaysia's history and a 14.9% increase compared with the previous year. He said this underscores strong investor confidence in the country's direction. He acknowledged the seriousness of the imposed tariffs but stressed that the government would manage the situation pragmatically and in Malaysia's national interest, while preserving positive ties with all trade partners. 'The US is a key export destination and our largest source of foreign investments. We are addressing these challenges based on pragmatism and diplomacy.' Anwar said Malaysia is not overly dependent on any single market. He cited growing exports to non-traditional markets such as Egypt, Pakistan and Cambodia, and reiterated that trade ties with Asean, China, Japan and regional partners remain strong. The US tariff issue is expected to feature prominently at the upcoming Asean–Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Summit and Asean–China talks later this month. Despite external pressures, Anwar said Malaysia's export performance remains solid, particularly in the electrical and electronics sector. 'We are seeing encouraging growth, and with the postponement of the tariff implementation, the short-term impact is expected to be manageable.' Looking ahead, Anwar said the government remains committed to structural economic reforms under the Madani framework to ensure Malaysia builds a robust and diversified economy. 'We've developed a strong supply chain ecosystem and are actively diversifying our export products and destinations to avoid over-reliance on vulnerable sectors.' He urged Malaysians to remain optimistic and united in the face of global uncertainties. 'We have faced greater challenges in our history, and we've always emerged stronger. This government will continue to lead with clarity, courage and compassion,' Anwar added.
