The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) is one of a kind and a phenomenal move between Malaysia and neighbouring Singapore, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised yesterday.

“There is an element of trust in working together on a joint programme that will benefit one another.

“This Johor-Singapore economics, in my mind, is a phenomenal sort of a move, because (it) must be based on trust and common policies. And it is happening,” he said at the “Country Strategy Dialogue” session on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Summit 2025 here.

Anwar was responding to a question asked by a participant on his expectation of the recently penned JS-SEZ collaboration during the session moderated by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said he is still grappling to find any other region or subregion arrangements, “maybe they have some sort of regional understanding, but not to the extent of the Johor-Singapore economic zone,” he added.

The Prime Minister said he was confident that the JS-SEZ would propel the economy in terms of investments, where both Malaysia and Singapore can benefit.

“We are really enthusiastic, and so is Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong when we had the discussion, and I think that should be a very important showcase for Malaysia and Singapore and also for the region, for Asean and beyond,” he said.

Earlier this month, Singapore and Malaysia formalised the agreement of the JS-SEZ during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat to boost economic cooperation and attract investments.

The JS-SEZ is a mega development project covering areas such as the Iskandar Development Region, Desaru, Johor Baru, Iskandar Puteri, Tanjung Pelepas, Tanjung Bin, Pasir Gudang, Senai, Skudai and Sedenak.

Among others, JS-SEZ targets to attract 100 projects in 10 years.

Source: Bernama

PM: JS-SEZ is one of a kind, phenomenal

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today held high-level meetings with business leaders from six multinational companies (MNCs) including AstraZeneca, Fortescue, DP World, Medtronics, Nestle, and Google.

Arranged by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), the one-on-one meetings took place on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Summit 2025 at the Mountain Plaza Hotel, here, where Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, led the Malaysian delegation.

Also present were MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, and the chief executive officer (CEO) of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, along with government officials.

Anwar spent half an hour in each meeting with the business leaders, starting with AstraZeneca’s chief strategy officer Marc Dunoyer, followed by a meeting with the executive chairman and founder of Fortescue, Minderoo Foundation, and Tattarang, Dr Andrew Forrest AO.

The prime minister and Malaysian delegation then met with DP World, led by its chairman and CEO, Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, and also held discussions with Medtronics, represented by its senior vice president, Eurasia, Majid Kaddoumi.

The prime minister also sat down for a conversation with Nestle’s executive vice president and CEO of Zone Asia, Oceania and Africa, Remy Ejel.

Finally, Anwar and the Malaysian officials had discussions with leaders from Google, represented by Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google.

Anwar is currently leading the Malaysian delegation on a three-day working visit to attend the WEF Annual Summit 2025, here. This marks his first participation in the WEF since taking office in 2022.

With the theme “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age”, the high-level summit, which began yesterday and runs until January 24, will discuss, among other topics, the role and contribution of emerging technologies and the latest innovations in addressing global economic issues.

The discussions will focus on five thematic priorities – Industries in the Intelligent Age; Rebuilding Trust; Reimagining Growth; Investing in People; and Safeguarding the Planet.

Source: Bernama

Anwar meets 6 MNCs including Google, Nestle on the sidelines of WEF 2025

The resumption of negotiations for the Malaysia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (MEUFTA) serves as a significant milestone in enhancing trade relations between Malaysia and EU.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the ministry and the EU commissioner for trade and economic security Maroš Šefčovič welcomed the resumption of negotiations.  

“These negotiations have begun at a historic moment. In the current, ever-changing geopolitical landscape, it is crucial to build new partnerships, foster cooperation, and explore new opportunities, and that is exactly what we are doing through these negotiations,” the ministry said in a statement.

It added that a modern and dynamic free trade agreement will bring mutual benefits, open doors to new business opportunities, and enhance the resilience of supply chains.   

“We look forward to the first round of productive negotiations in the coming months.”

Malaysia and the EU have resumed negotiations for MEUFTA, which had been stalled since 2012.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was agreed upon together with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen during his working visit to Brussels, Belgium from Jan 19-20.

In a statement today, the Prime Minister’s Office said the renewed engagement marks a significant milestone in strengthening Malaysia’s economic ties with one of the world’s largest trading blocs.

Source: NST

Resumption of FTA talks a milestone for Malaysia-EU ties: Tengku Zafrul

Sarawak’s green methanol projects and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) are projected to boost Malaysia’s economic growth and attract foreign investments over the next two to three years, according to Nomura Asset Management.

Country head for Malaysia Leslie Yap said these initiatives position Malaysia as a destination for global investors seeking opportunities in Southeast Asia for the long term.

“Those (JS-SEZ and Sarawak’s green methanol) are areas where they need capital and want to grow. Some of these projects are pretty good. There’s going to be quite a decent amount of investment going in, so hopefully it comes to fruition. The economy can benefit from that,” he said at the Nomura Asset Management Malaysia’s Breakfast Conference 2025 today.

Yap said the current foreign selling and overall index pressure on the Malaysian equity market is short term. He explained that short-term fund flows tend to be influenced by concerns about the global economy, US interest rates and political factors, such as the new Trump administration’s trade policies.

“When you talk about fund flows, which are more short-term in nature, global investors will say, ‘Let’s pull it back to dollar-class assets. Let’s keep it there. Make sure we see more certainty and clarity in what they’re trying to do – meaning the US and Trump – before we have a view on emerging markets.”

Yap said many regional or foreign investors will come back and relook Malaysia, given its relatively stable political situation. “Our team also believes and hopes that these factors can continue – basically political stability to drive economic growth. At the end of the day, politics are politics. That’s short-term.”

When it comes to diversification of the supply chain in electronics, Yap commented, “Yes, tariffs are there in the near term, but we should continue to see more investment in the Malaysian space from global investors.

“Infineon, for example, has mentioned something in the region of €2 billion over 10 years (for Malaysia). They’re going to commit to that, and then next year, pull out? No. It’s a fixed asset investment, not like the stock market.”

Additionally, Yap said Malaysia, relatively small to other emerging markets as a whole, has done well because it has positioned itself as a place for data centres. “We are also supported by the availability of liquidity in the domestic market, meaning the funds, pension funds, and national funds are here to support,” he added.

Separately, Nomura Asset Management Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the Malaysian fund management unit of Nomura Holdings Inc, today launched the Japan Shariah Active Core Fund to offer investors syariah-compliant exposure to Japan’s dynamic equity market.

The Nomura Japan Shariah Active Core Fund is the first Malaysian unit trust fund that primarily invests in syariah-compliant companies domiciled in or derive their earnings from Japan. The fund is available for a minimum initial investment of RM1,000 or US$1,000 (RM4,500).

The active core strategy of the fund is designed to capture the essence of Japan’s evolving economy without being tied to either value or growth investing, ensuring that the portfolio remains balanced and resilient. This dual focus allows the fund to capture opportunities in high-growth sectors while maintaining a foundation in value-oriented investments, offering a proposition to investors seeking both stability and growth.

“Being one of Japan’s largest asset managers, we have been managing active equities worldwide for over 60 years, beginning in Japan. We are thrilled to introduce the Japan Shariah Active Core Fund, which blends our extensive expertise in Japanese equities with the values of syariah principles,“ said Nomura Islamic Asset Management managing director Atsushi Ichii.

Source: The Sun

Sarawak green methanol projects, JS-SEZ will spur Malaysia’s growth and attract foreign investments: Nomura Asset

The East Coast Economic Region Development Council (ECERDC) says it has achieved RM13.4 billion in realised investments for 2024, a 56 per cent increase compared to the previous year. 

This marks the highest annual investment figure ever recorded for the East Coast Economic Region (ECER).  

ECERDC, in a statement today, said since 2018, private investments have totalled RM44.7 billion, bringing the council closer to its RM49 billion target under the ECER Master Plan 2.0 (EMP2.0), which concludes in 2025.  

A key highlight of 2024 was the RM7.7 billion expansion of Alliance Steel (M) Sdn Bhd at the Malaysia-China Kuantan Industrial Park, further solidifying ECER’s position as a leading manufacturing hub.

Other key investments included the expansion of Eastern Steel Sdn Bhd’s steel plant, the development of an integrated waste management facility by Greenverse Sdn Bhd, and the construction of a luxury hotel on Pulau Perhentian Kecil by Ikhasas Land Transit Sdn Bhd.  

ECERDC’s initiatives created 3,305 jobs and supported 641 entrepreneurial opportunities in 2024.

The fisheries sector also experienced growth with the completion of the Endau-Mersing Fish Processing Park, which has positioned Mersing as a vital fisheries hub by creating high-value seafood products and boosting market competitiveness. 

ECERDC highlighted its target to achieve RM55 billion private investment under the 13th Malaysia Plan (2026–2030). 

This will come from initiatives such as the ECER Islands Master Plan and the development of 17 recreational vehicle parks along scenic routes to promote eco-tourism and sustainable travel.  

The council said agriculture would remain a key focus, with the completion of Jemaluang Dairy Valley in Mersing by mid-2025 and expansion of livestock production in locations such as Segamat, Setiu, Dungun and Hulu Terengganu.  

ECERDC also noted its ongoing efforts to support sustainable industrial growth. This is through the development of renewable energy zones and advanced technologies such as carbon capture, utilisation and storage facilities, aligning with Malaysia’s climate action goals.  

ECERDC chief executive officer Datuk Baidzawi Che Mat expressed optimism about the council’s ability to drive inclusive and sustainable development. 

“Through collaboration with federal and state governments, private investors, and local communities, we are committed to unlocking the region’s potential and delivering greater prosperity to the people of ECER,” he added.

Source: NST

ECER attracts 56pct more realised investments to RM13.4bil in 2024

A modern and dynamic free trade agreement will bring mutual benefits, open doors to new business opportunities and improve supply chain resilience.

The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) said that in the current ever-changing geopolitical landscape, it is important to build new partnerships, foster collaborations and explore new opportunities.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, today announced the resumption of negotiations on the Malaysia-European Union Free Trade Agreement (MEUFTA).

The announcement was made in conjunction with the prime minister’s working visit to Brussels, Belgium on Jan 19-20, 2025.

“Following the announcement, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and the Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security of the European Commission, Maros Sefcovic welcomed the resumption of negotiations on the MEUFTA, an important moment in the improvement of trade relations and economic integration of both parties.

“We welcome a productive first round of negotiations in the coming months,” MITI said in a statement today.

Source: Bernama

MITI: Modern, dynamic free trade agreement will bring mutual benefits

Malaysia can expect an increase in investment and trade with the United Kingdom (UK) as both countries will have a free trade agreement for the first time through the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the CPTPP was a good beginning for companies to gain access into markets in each country from the aspect of tariffs and accessibility.

“This (CPTPP) will certainly encourage our companies to export goods and services to the UK,” he told the Malaysian media covering Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s working visit to the UK.

Tengku Zafrul said the impact of the CPTPP on bilateral relationships between both countries was discussed when Anwar met his counterpart Sir Keir Starmer on Jan 15 here.

Malaysia ratified the CPTPP in October 2024, joining Peru, Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and Vietnam in doing so, while the UK joined last December. 

CPTPP is an Asia-Pacific trade bloc made up of 11 countries plus the UK. The 11 original members are Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam. 

On Thursday, Tengku Zafrul and UK Minister of State for Trade Policy and Economic Security, Douglas Alexander held the inaugural ministerial-led Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) meeting to explore ways to increase bilateral trade and investment. 

On future prospect of investment from the UK, Tengku Zafrul said more companies are looking to venture into Malaysia or increase their investments there.

“We managed to get RM11 billion in potential investments during the prime minister’s visit here. The biggest amount is for data centres, with one company wanting to further invest RM5 billion,” he added.

Tengku Zafrul said potential investors were keen to hear from the prime minister himself the situation in Malaysia, and the policies under his administration.

During Anwar’s visit, he attended a roundtable meeting with captains of industry and Invest Malaysia, as well as launching YTL Group’s £2 billion (RM11 billion) housing development and arena north of Bristol, UK.

He also launched Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s 102 megawatt (MW) Eastfield and Bunkers Hill solar farms, as well as visiting the Battersea Power Station, which is Malaysia’s largest investment involving public funds in Europe.

“These are private investments. Yet they are expected to bring tremendous benefits to Malaysia through profits, dividends and also imports of goods and services from Malaysia for their projects here,” he added.

The UK is Malaysia’s fourth largest trading partner in Europe, with total bilateral trade amounting to RM15.3 billion (US$3.34 billion) in the first 11 months of 2024.

Source: Bernama

Increase in investment, trade with UK amid CPTPP: Tengku Zafrul

Malaysia can generate potential investments of RM11 billion and potential exports of RM500 million following Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s official visit to the United Kingdom (UK).

“The potential investments involve the renewable energy, digital economy, automotive, banking, real estate and petrochemical sectors.

“While the potential exports generated are for equipment and aircraft components, furniture and food and beverages,“ said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz in post on X on Sunday.

For 2024, the total Malaysia-UK trade up till November was RM15.3 billion, with exports worth RM7.83 billion and imports worth RM7.47 billion.

“In terms of investment performance, as of September 2024, a total of 486 manufacturing projects by UK companies had been implemented with a total investment of RM12.49 billion generating 41,630 job opportunities for Malaysians,” he added.

The UK is Malaysia’s fourth largest trading partner in Europe.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia attracts potential investments of RM11b, RM500m potential exports to UK

Malaysia is the perfect gateway into Southeast Asia, especially with the participation of the United Kingdom (UK) in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) of which Malaysia is also a member.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz had in a session organised recently by Standard Chartered Bank, the UK-ASEAN Business Council and the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, explained the various advantages of Malaysia as a regional hub for UK companies.

“It would be a pity if UK companies don’t take advantage of this unfolding opportunity to explore business opportunities in Malaysia and ASEAN,” he said in a post on X on Sunday.

Tengku Zafrul was one of the Cabinet ministers who followed Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on a five-day working visit to UK.

Malaysia ratified the CPTPP in October 2024, joining Peru, Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and Vietnam in ratifying the agreement, while the UK joined last December.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia the gateway into Southeast Asia market – Tengku Zafrul

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to the United Kingdom (UK) has successfully attracted RM11 billion in potential investments across various sectors, including renewable energy and the digital economy.

Speaking to the Malaysian media during a press conference here, Anwar also highlighted that the export potential to be generated over the next five years amounts to RM500 million, encompassing products such as aircraft equipment and components, furniture, as well as food and beverages.

He said that this development reflects strong international confidence in Malaysia’s economy and signifies the growing cooperation between Malaysia and the UK government.

“There has been a noticeable surge in interest and readiness to invest during discussions with business leaders facilitated by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida), the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI),” he said.

During his five-day working trip to the UK, the prime minister also met with several major UK corporations, including Standard Chartered and Jaguar Land Rover.

Anwar said that the UK government, led by its Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, is set to strengthen its cooperation and relations with Malaysia, with plans for a visit from UK Development Minister Anneliese Dodds to Malaysia next month, followed by Indo-Pacific Minister Catherine West in March.

“This indicates the commitment to invest RM11 billion across various sectors, including automotive, digital, renewable energy, banking, real estate, and petrochemicals,” he said.

Anwar’s visit marked his first trip to the UK as prime minister, where he met with Starmer at No. 10 Downing Street on Wednesday.

After the meeting, Starmer posted on X, describing the relationship between the UK and Malaysia as “close and historic,” emphasising that “from investment to trade and education, the UK’s ties with Malaysia are stronger than ever.”

Anwar noted that trade between the two nations is expected to grow, particularly with the UK’s inclusion in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

“Through the CPTPP, Malaysian companies’ participation in contracts, professional services, and the export of goods from Malaysia will be easier.

“Major companies such as YTL, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, Gamuda, and EcoWorld, which have significant investments and projects in the UK, will also benefit from it,” he explained.

Additionally, under the CPTPP, Malaysia’s palm oil and rubber exports, which were previously subject to tariffs of 12 per cent and 6.5 per cent, respectively, will now benefit from tariff-free access to the UK market. 

Source: Bernama

Anwar’s UK visit attracts potential investments worth RM11 billion

Deputy Sarawak Premier and Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian welcomes small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to explore the vast potential of business opportunities in Sarawak.

He said that Sarawak’s economy has been at the forefront recently, compared to the past when its economy has been lagging behind.

However, Dr Sim said Sarawak has abundant resources and potential, and “will surely catch up and surpass West Malaysia.”

“Sarawak’s future economic sector focuses on the development of new energy and green economy, including hydrogen energy.

“Also, with the aging population and rising medical costs, small and medium-sized enterprises can also explore the potential in related fields, especially in the field of medical research,” he said.

He made his remarks during the East-West Business Networking Event organised by the Sarawak SME Association on Saturday night. The event acts as an investment attraction for Sarawak and sharing Sarawak’s economy and potential areas with business representatives from China and West Malaysia.

Dr Sim jokingly mentioned that there were “too many people wanting to invest in Sarawak”.

“In other words, the threshold for investing in Sarawak has been raised,” he affirmed.

President of SME Association Sarawak, Jordan Ong, noted that the East-West Business Networking Event attracted about 150 business representatives.

“We have several associations joining us tonight – we have 20 members from the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MayCham) in China, coming all the way from Guangzhou.

“We also have about 20 representatives from the Youth Entrepreneurs Division of SME Malaysia, which is our sister association.

“The last association is the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce (Sabah Branch). Through their support, they have about 50 over entrepreneurs flying over.”

Ong said the networking event serves as a point to link with other regions like Sabah and West Malaysia.

“To us, I feel that it is a good platform, not only for our members in Sarawak, but also for them to explore Sarawak.

“We want to attract more investment, policy investment into Sarawak, so we can build the economy together.”

Source: The Borneo Post

Dr Sim: Plenty of investment opportunities in Sarawak

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held one-onone business meetings with several leading companies during his visit to the United Kingdom.

One of the meetings was with Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), which was led by its chief executive officer Bill Winters.

According to Malaysian officials, SCB is exploring collaboration with the Malaysian and Singapore governments to facilitate global business entry into the Johor-singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ).

Anwar also met officials from Jaguar Land Rover, Raw Energy and Yondr, which has an ongoing project at Sedenak Tech Park, Johor, Bernama reported.

Also present were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir and Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

Earlier, Anwar attended a roundtable meeting with captains of industry in the United Kingdom, joined by 53 leading industry players from 30 companies and organisations.

Among them were Airbus UK, GKN Aerospace, British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, Shell and BAE Systems.

Both Malaysia and the United Kingdom have also held their first ministerial-led Joint Economic and Trade Committee meeting, marking the strengthening of already robust trade relations.

The United Kingdom was Malaysia’s 21st largest trading partner from January to November last year, as well as the fourth largest trading partner in Europe.

Bilateral trade in goods between the two countries amounted to Rm15.29bil.

This could grow further now that the United Kingdom has joined the Comprehensive and

Progressive Agreement for Transpacific Partnership (CPTPP), giving Malaysia and the United Kingdom their first formal free trade agreement.

The United Kingdom’s participation in the CPTPP came into force on Dec 15, 2024.

A statement from the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry said yesterday that Tengku Zafrul and the United Kingdom’s Trade Policy and Economic Security Minister Douglas Alexander held positive discussions in London to explore ways to enhance bilateral trade and investment.

“Both ministers support an ambitious joint working plan to strengthen bilateral cooperation in priority areas such as legal services, education, standards and compliance assessments, agriculture, and small and medium-sized enterprises,” the statement said.

The meeting also touched on potential cooperation in areas such as customs, Islamic finance, cooperatives and social enterprises.

“Both parties are committed to continuing close cooperation to support businesses in Malaysia and the United Kingdom, effectively leveraging this (first and formal free trade agreement),” the ministry added.

Source: The Star

PM meets leading UK companies to boost trade ties

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) sets the stage for greater growth in trade, investment, and the exchange of knowledge and know-how between Malaysia and the United Kingdom (UK), but hard work lies ahead.

In making the remark, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said: “We have promises to keep, and miles to go before we can call it a day. Hard work still lies ahead.”

He emphasised the need for proactive capacity building and technical cooperation under CPTPP, not only among large companies but especially with the millions of small and medium enterprises across Malaysia and the UK.

His comments were made in a lecture at the London School of Economics, titled “The Adaptive Edge: Malaysia’s Global Strategy in an Uncertain Era”, which was attended by about 500 students.

“Only by doing so can Malaysia and the UK truly optimise linkages and maximise the agreement’s potential to realise complementarities, supercharge shared growth, and create opportunities that are inclusive for businesses and communities on both sides,” said Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister.

“(Hence), we look forward to taking these ties to newer heights through the CPTPP. Malaysia lauds and welcomes the UK’s recent accession, marking the first free trade agreement that connects our two nations.”

With high-quality provisions, including comprehensive tariff reductions, streamlined rules, and enhanced investment protection, CPTPP opens new markets for both British and Malaysian companies, Anwar added.

CPTPP is an Asia-Pacific trade bloc comprising 11 countries plus the UK. The original 11 members are Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia, UK must proactively capitalise on CPTPP benefits – PM Anwar

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade agreement is a critical vehicle to expand and facilitate investment and trade between Malaysia and the United Kingdom.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was made possible by the move by both countries to enter the agreement.“In fact, I chose to express my appreciation to the United Kingdom premier for successfully entering the CPTPP agreement. It takes serious political commitment on the part of the United Kingdom and Malaysia, focusing on economic fundamentals in the interest of both nations to promote free trade,” he said here.

Anwar was speaking at the launch of the YTL Group’s Brabazon New Town development in Bristol, the largest city in the South West of England.

Malaysia ratified the CPTPP in October 2024, joining Peru, Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and Vietnam in doing so, while the United Kingdom formally joined last December. Under this framework, tariffs for products by member countries will be reduced to zero.

The premier also praised YTL, which is the largest Malaysian investor in the United Kingdom, for its resilience and for continuing to make strides in the country. 

Source: Bernama

PM: CPTPP a critical vehicle to expand investment

Malaysia, as Asean Chair, is committed to fostering even closer integration, deepening trade, economic and energy integration within the region and with the rest of the world, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said a prime example is the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), which is set to unlock Johor’s potential while leveraging its proximity to Singapore to attract investments and create high-value economic opportunities.

“Likewise, we will prioritise enhancing regional energy cooperation through the Asean Power Grid, a critical initiative for advancing the region’s energy transition,” he said at the InvestMalaysia programme here yesterday.

Malaysia is Asean Chair for 2025.

On Jan 7, Singapore and Putrajaya exchanged an agreement on the JS-SEZ, a unique initiative where two countries work together to help promote both nations and attract investments.

Anwar said that key steps include integrating Thai and Laos energy grids into the broader Asean network and exporting Sarawak’s hydroelectric power to Singapore.

These efforts mark a significant stride towards strengthening energy security and accelerating clean energy transition in the Global South.

He said Malaysia will also ensure that Asean remains a neutral platform for dialogue and cooperation in the Asia Pacific region.

Lauding the United Kingdom’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Anwar this will unlock access to key markets for Malaysian exports such as palm oil, rubber and timber.

“At the same time, we are eager to explore partnerships with other economies in the Global South, including BRICS nations, to open new channels of commerce,” he said, Bernama reported.

Earlier in his address to an esteemed group of investors, Anwar said that Malaysia’s economic outlook for 2024 and beyond is increasingly positive, emerging as a beacon of growth and resilience in South-East Asia and bolstered by its Asean chairmanship.

He said strong gross domestic product growth, policy stability and rising foreign direct investment have rekindled global interest in Malaysia’s capital markets and positioned the country as one of the leading investment destinations in the region.

Anwar said the government has dedicated the past two years to improving governance, enhancing transparency, intensifying anti-corruption efforts and at the same time implementing comprehensive fiscal reforms.

“To this end, my administration has dedicated the past two years to strengthening governance by enhancing transparency and intensifying anti-corruption efforts,” he said.

He said the government has also pursued comprehensive fiscal reforms, with a strong commitment to gradually and sustainably reducing the fiscal deficit while reinforcing fiscal responsibility to ensure long-term economic resilience and stability.

Source: The Star

Malaysia offers huge potential to investors, says PM

Business sentiment among Japanese companies in Malaysia has improved for the fourth consecutive year, even as competition intensifies, according to the Financial Year 2024 Survey by the Japan External Trade Organisation Kuala Lumpur (Jetro).

In a statement, Jetro said Malaysia’s profitability rate exceeds the Asean average, with the expected operating profit margin for 2024 at 70.8 per cent, and the nation stands out as the only major Asean country to record consistent growth over the past four years.

According to the survey, 48.9 per cent of the companies plan to promote local human resource development and employment and are mulling on expanding their business in the post-Covid era.

The Survey on Business Condition of Japanese Companies Operating Overseas Asia/Oceania Edition involved Japanese companies operating in 20 countries and regions, conducted from Aug 20-Sept 18, 2024.

“The operating profit outlook for 2025 shows that the percentage of companies expecting an improvement has increased in all countries compared to 2024, with Malaysia’s forecast showing a slight increase to 41.9 per cent.

“In the post-Covid era, Malaysia has outperformed other major countries in several initiatives: local human resource development (58.8 per cent), employment increase (35.8 per cent), and the promotion of decarbonisation (24.9 per cent),” it said.

The survey also revealed that the percentage of companies considering business expansions in the next one to two years remains at 48.9 per cent.

Over 70 per cent of the respondents are concerned about rising labour costs, and high employee turnover is the most serious problem among major Asean countries.

It also found that inflation-related cost increases will affect supply chain management, leading to the transfer of electrical and electronics production to Malaysia.

Additionally, 83.5 per cent of companies responded that they are either already working on or planning to take on decarbonisation efforts.

Source: Bernama

Survey: Japanese firms rank Malaysia as Asean’s profitability leader

Malaysia’s economic outlook for 2024 and beyond is increasingly positive as the country emerges as a beacon of growth and resilience in South-east Asia, bolstered by its Asean Chairmanship in 2025.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said strong gross domestic product (GDP) growth, policy stability, and rising foreign direct investment (FDI) have rekindled global interest in Malaysia’s capital markets and positioned the country as one of the leading investment destinations in the region.

Malaysia’s GDP growth forecasts have been revised upward and are likely to exceed 5.0 per cent in 2024, with a further robust growth of 4.5 per cent to 5.5 per cent expected in 2025.

In 2024, Malaysian equities also broke years of regression, buoyed by a string of upgrades from leading global research firms.

Malaysia also led Asean in initial public offering (IPO) activities, closing the year as one of Southeast Asia’s best-performing benchmark indices.

In his address to an esteemed group of investors in London, United Kingdom, Anwar, who is also the finance minister, said the government has dedicated the past two years to improving governance, enhancing transparency, and intensifying anti-corruption efforts.

At the same time, comprehensive fiscal reforms have been implemented, with a focus on gradually reducing the fiscal deficit while ensuring long-term stability.

“To this end, my administration has dedicated the past two years to strengthening governance by enhancing transparency and intensifying anti-corruption efforts,” he said.

The prime minister said the government has also pursued comprehensive fiscal reforms, with a strong commitment to gradually and sustainably reducing the fiscal deficit while reinforcing fiscal responsibility to ensure long-term economic resilience and stability.

This, in turn, is underpinned by Malaysia’s forward-looking policy roadmaps, including the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), and National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), Anwar said.

He said these policies are bolstering Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor value chain and helping us to support the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI), data, and computing power across Asia.

Hence, Anwar said Malaysia is committed to building on these strong foundations in the year ahead and aims to attract high-quality investments that advance economic complexity, accelerate progress toward net-zero goals, safeguard economic security, and drive technology adoption.

He added that all these offer immense potential for investors.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia projects 5pc GDP growth in 2024 as PM Anwar courts London investors

Malaysia stands out as a noteworthy destination for investors, supported by the country’s political stability and its capacity to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said these are significant factors capturing the interest of global investors.

Additionally, the government’s strategic focus on critical sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors are also making the country more attractive among global investors, he said in his Facebook post on Thursday (Jan 16).

Anwar said these factors were highlighted during his address at the launch of the YTL Group’s Brabazon New Town development in Bristol on Wednesday, the largest city in the South West of England.

The prime minister is currently on a five-day working visit to the United Kingdom which started on Tuesday (Jan 15).

He is accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani. 

Source: Bernama

Malaysia stands out as noteworthy investment destination, says Anwar

Malaysia’s economic outlook for 2024 and beyond is increasingly positive as the country emerges as a beacon of growth and resilience in Southeast Asia, bolstered by its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said strong gross domestic product (GDP) growth, policy stability, and rising foreign direct investment (FDI) have rekindled global interest in Malaysia’s capital markets and positioned the country as one of the leading investment destinations in the region.

Malaysia’s GDP growth forecasts have been revised upward and are likely to exceed 5.0 per cent in 2024, with a further robust growth of 4.5 per cent to 5.5 per cent expected in 2025.

In 2024, Malaysian equities also broke years of regression, buoyed by a string of upgrades from leading global research firms.

Malaysia also led ASEAN in initial public offering (IPO) activities, closing the year as one of Southeast Asia’s best-performing benchmark indices.

In his address to an esteemed group of investors in London, United Kingdom, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the government has dedicated the past two years to improving governance, enhancing transparency, and intensifying anti-corruption efforts.

At the same time, comprehensive fiscal reforms have been implemented, with a focus on gradually reducing the fiscal deficit while ensuring long-term stability.

“To this end, my administration has dedicated the past two years to strengthening governance by enhancing transparency and intensifying anti-corruption efforts,” he said.

The prime minister said the government has also pursued comprehensive fiscal reforms, with a strong commitment to gradually and sustainably reducing the fiscal deficit while reinforcing fiscal responsibility to ensure long-term economic resilience and stability.

This, in turn, is underpinned by Malaysia’s forward-looking policy roadmaps, including the New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), and National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), Anwar said.

He said these policies are bolstering Malaysia’s role in the global semiconductor value chain and helping us to support the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI), data, and computing power across Asia.

Hence, Anwar said Malaysia is committed to building on these strong foundations in the year ahead and aims to attract high-quality investments that advance economic complexity, accelerate progress toward net-zero goals, safeguard economic security, and drive technology adoption.

He added that all these offer immense potential for investors.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia’s economic renaissance offers immense potential for investors – PM Anwar

Investors have full freedom to choose where to invest in Malaysia, without government restrictions, whether the states are governed by the ruling party or the opposition, said a senior aide to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

“After discussions are carried out, it is the investors themselves who choose the state based on their suitability,” said Datuk Azman Abidin, political-secretary to Anwar yesterday.

“For instance, if an investor feels that their investment would be suitable in Perlis and receives good cooperation in the state, they are welcome to invest in Perlis, Kedah, or any state, including those under the opposition.”

Azman said that government agencies such as the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) can facilitate investors looking to invest in opposition states.

“MATRADE and MITI can act as facilitators to assist these investors who wish to invest in opposition-led states. This includes verification matters before they negotiate with local representatives,” he said.

Azman said Anwar’s growing international reputation has positively influenced investors’ confidence to invest in Malaysia.

“I can say that foreign investors are eager to invest in this country because they are impressed with our hardworking and globally recognised Prime Minister. For example, Japan’s Prime Minister (Shigeru Ishiba) chose Malaysia recently, saying that one of his primary reasons was to meet Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, as he had heard about his remarkable reputation and global popularity,” he said.

Malaysia continues to hold a prominent position on the global investment radar. In the first half of 2024, the country secured RM160 billion in investments, an 18 per cent year-on-year increase, driven by strong economic fundamentals.

Azman, who was on a one-day visit to Perlis, engaged with 600 underprivileged individuals across the three constituencies of Kangar, Arau, and Padang Besar. At the Ihsan Madani Contribution event, Azman disbursed a total of RM120,000 in cash, with each recipient receiving RM200.

Source: NST

Investors free to choose business locations, says PM’s aide

The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) trade agreement will be a critical vehicle to expand and facilitate investment and trade between Malaysia and the United Kingdom (UK).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was made possible by the move by both countries to enter the agreement.

“In fact, I chose to express my appreciation to the UK premier for successfully entering the CPTPP agreement.

“It takes serious political commitment on the part of the UK and Malaysia, focusing on economic fundamentals in the interest of both nations to promote free trade,” he said here on Wednesday.

Anwar was speaking at the launch of the YTL Group’s Brabazon New Town development in Bristol, the largest city in the South West of England.

Malaysia ratified the CPTPP in October last year, joining Peru, Japan, Singapore, Chile, New Zealand and Vietnam in doing so, while the UK formally joined last December.

Under this framework, tariffs for products by member countries will be reduced to zero.

Anwar also praised YTL, which is the largest Malaysian investor in the UK, for its resilience and for continuing to make strides in the country.

YTL made its first investment in the UK in 2002 with the acquisition of Wessex Water.

The award-winning Bristol Brabazon development is set to transform the historic Filton Airfield site into a Copenhagen-inspired project that will allow people to access the essential services they need such as workplaces, schools, shops, public transport, healthcare and green spaces within a 15-minute radius of their home.

Besides the 6,500 high-quality sustainable homes, it will also house three new schools and a new urban park, the largest to be built in the South West in over 50 years.

At the launch, YTL Group executive chairman Tan Sri Sir Francis Yeoh Sock Ping said YTL is committing to invest a further £4 billion (RM21.96 billion) into the UK over the next five years.

Anwar, who is here for a five-day working visit, said that by participating in overseas ventures, Malaysian businesses could deepen their global market ties, contributing to Malaysia’s aspirations of expanding its trade footprint through international frameworks such as the CPTPP.

During the visit, Anwar is accompanied by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, and Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

Source: Bernama

PM: CPTPP a critical vehicle to expand investment, trade between Malaysia and UK

Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a leading foreign investment destination even as the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) expresses its commitment to increase investments in Malaysia, said Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

Speaking at a press conference after today’s Cabinet meeting, Fahmi, also the unity government spokesperson, said this proves foreign investors’ confidence in the country’s strong economic prospects.

“The Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim) had previously announced that several parties, including ADIA, intend to increase their investments. Following this, we read about the additional investment in Malaysian company Yinson Holdings Bhd.

“This clearly shows that Malaysia continues to be the preferred destination for foreign investments, including from entities like ADIA from the United Arab Emirates (UAE),” he said.

Media reports on Jan 14 said Yinson Holdings Bhd subsidiary, Yinson Production Offshore Holdings Ltd (YPOHL), had secured an investment of US$1 billion (RM4.48 billion) from a consortium of international investment firms.

Yinson said the investment comes with an option to increase it to US$1.5 billion within 24 months.

The investment consortium includes Platinum Lily B 2024 RSC Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of ADIA, a fund managed by the British Columbia Investment Management Corporation (BCI), and the RRJ Group.

ADIA is one of the largest sovereign wealth funds in the world, with assets estimated to exceed US$1 trillion.

In a related development, Fahmi said Anwar is currently in the United Kingdom for an official visit and is scheduled to meet with his counterpart Keir Starmer.

“After that, he will go to Brussels on Jan 19 to meet Belgium’s Prime Minister (Alexander De Croo) and the European Commission president (Antonio Costa). Finally, he will go to Davos for the World Economic Forum and return to Malaysia on Jan 23,” he said.

Fahmi also said that today’s Cabinet meeting discussed the 2025 ASEAN chairmanship, with a foreign ministers’ retreat in Langkawi on Jan 18-19. This will be the first of more than 300 official meetings throughout the year.

“… This is the first meeting. Bernama will be the official media coordinator while RTM will be the official broadcaster for all ASEAN chairmanship programmes throughout the year.

“This is certainly a source of pride for us, and we will be a gracious host to all the delegations throughout the year,” he said.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia strengthens its position as leading foreign investment destination – Fahmi

Malaysia welcomes companies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to invest in Malaysia involving renewable energy (RE) projects, including data centres, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He said that during his three-day working visit to the UAE, which began on Sunday, he held meetings with sovereign wealth fund companies from the country.

Anwar said that during the meeting with UAE state-owned renewables firm Masdar, the government informed them that it would facilitate Masdar’s investment plans in Malaysia through joint ventures with local companies for green energy projects, infrastructure, battery storage, and strengthening the energy grid.

“For the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority [ADIA], this involves projects related to the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the Madani Economy framework, as well as projects in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), such as advanced manufacturing.

“It also includes infrastructure development, green technology, RE, logistics, healthcare, the digital economy, and education,” he said in a press conference with Malaysian journalists at the end of his visit to the UAE on Tuesday.

He also welcomed ADIA’s intention to collaborate with global infrastructure partners (GIP) on the privatisation of Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd (MAHB).

ADIA’s involvement is crucial in MAHB’s reorganisation or any potential privatisation involving Khazanah Nasional’s control. With experience at airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Heathrow, and Paris, ADIA brings valuable expertise.

“Khazanah’s partnership with ADIA, along with the backing of the nation’s leadership, is regarded as a major project,” he said.

Anwar said his meeting with Mubadala discussed the production of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and the development of gas-related infrastructure, as well as the development of value chains such as blue hydrogen and carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), along with projects in JS-SEZ.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia welcomes UAE companies to invest in renewable energy, data centre projects — PM

Investors can look forward to a significant reduction in corporate income tax rate when they invest in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), says a state executive councillor.

Johor investment, trade, consumer affairs and human resources committee chairman Lee Ting Han said among the main sectors that will be promoted under the initiative are aerospace, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, artificial intelligence and quantum computing, as well as speciality chemicals.

“Investors that fund more than RM1bil in the JS-SEZ will be offered a corporate income tax rate of 5% for a period of 15 years while investors that finance RM500mil to RM1bil will be offered 5% for a period of 10 years.

“The rate is a significant reduction from the country’s current corporate income tax rate of 24%,” he told reporters after launching the Green Energy Supply Forum at a hotel here yesterday.

Lee said under the JS-SEZ, other projects such as integrated theme parks and MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions) events will also get special incentives, to be announced later in phases.

He said the Johor government is also slated to meet with its Singapore counterpart next week on the implementation of the JS-SEZ following the signing of the agreement on Jan 7.

“The planning stage is over and we are moving into the implementation stage.

“This will be our first meeting with Singapore (after the agreement signing) on implementation efforts including to pull in investors and hold joint action events,” he said.

He added that an internal workshop involving Johor’s departments and agencies will be held tomorrow to discuss the zone’s overall master plan rollout.

On Jan 7, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his Singapore counterpart Lawrence Wong witnessed the exchange of the joint agreement, which took place during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat in Putrajaya.

Source: The Star

Low tax rates to reel in investors

The Malaysia-United Arab Emirates (UAE) Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MY-UAE CEPA) is expected to boost total bilateral trade between the two countries by at least 60 per cent in five years, contributing to a more sustainable economic growth.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said the CEPA is also expected to pave the way for strong comprehensive economic cooperation through trade facilitation as well as market access expansion between Malaysia and the UAE.

The UAE is a major trade hub for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market.

“The successful signing of the MY-UAE CEPA in Abu Dhabi on Jan 14, 2025, marks a significant achievement for both countries, as this is the first free trade agreement between Malaysia and a West Asian country,” Tengku Zafrul said in a statement.

Tengku Zafrul also took the opportunity to hold a bilateral meeting with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, to discuss various issues, including the implementation of the CEPA and potential trade and investment in areas of mutual interest.

The two ministers also discussed expectations from the ASEAN-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit, which will be held in May 2025 during Malaysia’s ASEAN 2025 chairmanship.

“The negotiation period for the CEPA which only took 11 months reflects the commitment of both Malaysia and the UAE to strengthen their economic cooperation for mutual benefit.

“The signing of the CEPA is set to position Malaysia as a dynamic trade and investment hub, opening new opportunities for Malaysian businesses and creating high-value jobs, as well as making Malaysia a gateway for UAE businesses to the ASEAN market,” Tengku Zafrul said.

The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (MITI), through its agency the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), also organised meetings between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and sovereign wealth funds from Abu Dhabi, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Mubadala Investment Company, as well as the UAE’s leading renewable energy company MASDAR.

MITI said potential key sectors for deeper collaboration with these sovereign wealth funds include renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and the semiconductor industry.

The ministry also welcomed ADIA’s interest to collaborate with Global Infrastructure Partners in the Malaysia Airport Holdings Bhd transformation exercise.

Moreover, Malaysia and the UAE have signed a memorandum of understanding on investment cooperation in data centre projects.

Cooperation in these sectors is expected to add value to Malaysia’s economic development and harness Emirati expertise and capital, MITI said.

The UAE was Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner in the West Asian region in 2023, after Saudi Arabia.

It is also Malaysia’s second-largest export destination after Turkiye and the second-largest source of imports after Saudi Arabia among countries in the West Asian region.

In the first 11 months of 2024, bilateral trade between Malaysia and the UAE amounted to RM39.53 billion, an increase of 8.6 per cent year-on-year.

This relationship reflects the UAE’s strategic importance as a key economic partner for Malaysia in the region.

In terms of foreign investments, the UAE is one of the biggest investors in Malaysia among the GCC member countries.

As of September 2024, 35 manufacturing projects valued at RM1.51 billion have been implemented by investors from the UAE.

These investments have created 2,187 job opportunities, contributing to the economic development and growth of the country’s manufacturing sector, MITI said.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia-UAE CEPA set to boost bilateral trade by 60% – Tengku Zafrul