4 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Malaysia, Taiwan see growth potential in ICT, semiconductors
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's strength in electronics and information technology manufacturing aligns with Taiwan's expertise in information and communication technology (ICT) design, making them complementary partners.
Taiwan External Trade Development Council (Taitra) deputy executive director of market development Keven Cheng said both countries have opportunities to collaborate in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), software development, green technology, healthcare and ICT design.
"We are good at ICT design. Malaysia is very strong in the semiconductors sector, especially testing," Cheng said at the launch of the Taiwan Expo 2025.
"Under the current geopolitical and supply chain shift, we can cooperate and create more synergy, especially in semiconductors, ICT, advanced manufacturing, green energy and intelligent healthcare."
Cheng said the Taiwan Expo in Malaysia has drawn over 1,200 Taiwanese companies since its debut in 2017 and attracted about 160,000 visitors, generating more than US$400 million in business.
"In today's evolving global supply chain, Taiwan's advanced technologies in AI, smart healthcare, and sustainability align closely with Malaysia's development blueprint for the next phase of industrial growth towards net-zero emissions.
"There is significant potential for collaboration between both countries to build a sustainable, technology-driven future," he said.
Taipei Economic & Cultural Office in Malaysia representative Phoebe Yeh, said bilateral trade between Malaysia and Taiwan reached US$39.1 billion in 2024, a record 38.5 per cent increase year-on-year.
She said Taiwan is Malaysia's fourth largest trading partner, and its investment in Malaysia more than doubled during the same period to US$1.29 billion.
"This makes Taiwan the seventh largest source of direct foreign investment in Malaysia.
"Currently, over 1,700 Taiwanese companies have significant investments in Malaysia, underscoring the strong economic ties between the two partners," she said.
Taiwan Expo 2025 will be held from June 23 to 25 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, marking its eighth edition in Malaysia.
Over 200 Taiwanese exhibitors are expected to showcase products and services focused on five themes namely, AI & Industry 4.0, health and wellness, green and sustainability, smart lifestyle, and culture and tourism.
The expo will also feature 10 thematic pavilions, five industry zones, business matching sessions, an AI seminar and workshops.
