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

The Malaysia-United Arab Emirates (UAE) Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) signed on Tuesday has set a new record for Malaysia as the fastest free trade agreement (FTA) to be concluded in just 11 months, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

He said this was proof of the commitment and cooperation of both parties.

“This agreement is expected to grow bilateral trade volume by at least 60 per cent within five years, contributing to a more sustainable economic growth,” he said in a statement.

Tengku Zafrul said CEPA is also the first free trade agreement between Malaysia and a member country of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

The successful conclusion of the negotiations was an important milestone in efforts to strengthen economic relations between Malaysia and UAE, he said.

“Insya-Allah, CEPA will catalyse tighter economic integration and contribute to shared prosperity and sustainable growth for both countries.

“But our efforts do not stop here (as) our next target is to negotiate free trade agreements with the GCC, which consists of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE,” he said.

Source: Bernama

Malaysia-UAE CEPA the fastest FTA concluded – Tengku Zafrul

Negeri Sembilan continues to be the choice destination for investors with the state government’s commitment to continue to engage with potential domestic and foreign investors actively, said Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

He said the Malaysian Investment Development Authority recorded RM3.0 billion in investments for the state for the second quarter of 2024.

“Negeri Sembilan is also focusing on improving the state’s economic competitiveness and growing its gross domestic product sustainably and inclusively towards the 13th Malaysia Plan,” he said.

Aminuddin said this when delivering his congratulatory and loyalty speech in conjunction with the 77th birthday of the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Ibni AlmarhumTuanku Munawir, at Istana Besar Seri Menanti today.

Meanwhile, Aminuddin said the National Investment Council, which convened on Oct 16 last year, had approved the Central Region Industrial Cluster Development initiative covering Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Melaka and Kuala Lumpur.

He said this initiative aims to create a specific industrial cluster identity in the manufacturing sector through joint ventures and synergistic efforts among states to drive targeted investments.

Aminuddin said this effort aligns with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, which focuses on cross-border economic development involving Bandar Enstek and Nilai.

Additionally, he said the state government supports the proposal for a new highway network involving the Senawang KLIA Expressway as well as the West Coast Expressway (WCE) extension connecting Banting, Selangor, across Negeri Sembilan and Melaka to Gelang Patah, Johor.

“We are confident that the WCE alignment along the Port Dickson coast will provide economic and development benefits to the people of this state, which is among the choice destinations for investors,” he said.

Besides, Aminuddin stressed that the state government would continue to focus on reforming efforts involving new fields, such as artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, and energy transition, in state development.

“Seremban City is in the middle of phase two of the smart city development framework, in addition to the state government’s development of the ‘Smart AI Container Port’ in Port Dickson.

“The development plan also involves proposed integration with the free industrial zone with components to promote entrepot trade and encourage export-oriented manufacturing activities,” he added.

Source: Bernama

Negeri Sembilan remains a choice destination for investors – MB Aminuddin

Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to boost strategic cooperation in politics, economy and investment, defence, renewable energy (RE) and nuclear, tourism, sustainability as well as artificial intelligence (AI).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was the outcome of his audiences with UAE president Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Jan 14 and UAE vice president and prime minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in Dubai on Jan 13.

Anwar said his presence at the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025 also accorded him the opportunity to deliver his views on Malaysia and Asean’s role in the issue of sustainability.

He said his audience with Sheikh Mohammed was also an opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties.

“What we achieved was the Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MY-UAE CEPA), which will enable us to elevate bilateral cooperation including investment and trade.

“The UAE is the first country from the Gulf Cooperation Council (to sign a Free Trade Agreement) with us. We see this as a very good start,” he told Malaysian media at the end of his visit today.

He said the agreement targets an increase in the country’s exports to the UAE to US$13.5 billion by 2032.

He said his meetings with UAE sovereign wealth funds such as Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Mubadala and Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co PJSC (Masdar) were also fruitful.

Anwar said Malaysia welcomed Masdar’s cooperation and participation in the energy sector.

On Monday, the prime minister meet with Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, chief executive officer of Masdar.

He said 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.

Anwar also had a discussion with Sheikh Hameed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, managing director of ADIA, one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds.

“This involved AIDA’s participation in the restructuring of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB). Their participation is key given their experience in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, with the London Heathrow airport and Paris’ Charles De Gaulle airport.

“We discussed ADIA’s close cooperation with Khazanah Nasional. The ADIA leadership, as well as the country’s leadership, regarded the (MAHB) project as a major one which in which they would extend all support to Khazanah,” he said.

The discussion with ADIA, he said, also involved projects related to the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), 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.

On the meeting with Mubadala, he said it revolved around liquefied natural gas, which also involved Petronas and Gentari.

They also discussed the development of gas-related infrastructure, as well as exploring the development of value chains such as blue hydrogen and carbon and capture storage (CCS) in Kuantan in Pahang, Kerteh in Terengganu and Sarawak.

“We also touched on the new Kerian Integrated Green Industrial Park (KIGIP) project on renewable energy, as well as the JS-SEZ,” he said.

The prime minister, on the sidelines of the ADSW 2025, also had a discussion with Kenyan president William Ruto and Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni to foster better ties with the African nations.

On the Asean and GCC Summit in May, he said Abu Dhabi ruler Sheikh Mohamed had given his commitment to attend together with other GCC heads of state and governments.

Source: NST

Malaysia, UAE to boost strategic ties in economy, renewable energy and AI

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said long-term investments involving healthcare, airport operations, and energy sectors are expected following his working visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Anwar, currently on a three-day working visit to the UAE since Sunday, said in a post on X today that the strong synergy between Malaysia and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) reflects confidence in the country’s potential for sustainable and competitive economic growth.

According to his post, Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, wrote: “ADIA comes together with other global investment partners to explore various investment opportunities available in Malaysia.

“It is not impossible for long-term investments to be injected, including in the healthcare, airport operations, and energy sectors,“ he wrote.

Anwar began the second day of his working visit yesterday and met three senior management officials from UAE’s sovereign wealth fund ADIA managing director Sheikh Hamed Zayed Al Nahyan, Mubadala CEO Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, and state-owned renewable energy company Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi.

Source: Bernama

Long-term investments expected following UAE working visit – PM Anwar

Some RM100 billion will be injected into Sarawak’s economy over the next five years, said Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

The Premier said this investment will support two transformative projects, namely the construction of a new international airport and a deep seaport in Kuching.

“Both projects are aimed at positioning Sarawak as a rising economic powerhouse in the region” he said at the Majlis Amanat Perdana Premier Sarawak 2025 held at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching here today.

Abang Johari said the proposed Tanjung Embang Deep Sea Port will be developed in partnership with Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (Petros) to serve as a strategic gateway for energy exports and imports.

“Aligned with the Sarawak Gas Roadmap, this port will facilitate green hydrogen bunkering, liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and other energy resources, driving Sarawak’s transition toward renewable energy,” he said.

The Premier said the port will feature state-of-the-art infrastructure and smart technologies to ensure operational excellence and sustainability.

He said the port, which is expected to be operational by 2030, will reinforce the state’s position as a regional leader in sustainable energy and trade.

Abang Johari said the ongoing acquisition of MASwings, now in its final stage, will also position Sarawak as a gateway to Asean.

“With increased fleet capacity and enhanced services, our goal is to boost both domestic and international connectivity, particularly within a four- to seven-hour flight radius, boosting trade, tourism, and investment in the next five years,” he added.

The Premier said his administration’s decision to invest in the dredging of Miri Port will facilitate the handling of larger cargo volumes.

He said the move is set to improve operational efficiency and enhance Miri Port’s role as a strategic port for international trade and regional connectivity.

Touching on the biggest state budget of RM15.8 billion tabled last year, Abang Johari said this allocation reflects the state’s commitment to driving transformative change and economic progress.

He said it is now critical for all agencies to remain focused and dedicated in ensuring the execution of programmes and projects is expedited and implemented efficiently.

He also called on all to align their efforts with the key priorities of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), spanning the period of 2026 to 2030.

“Preparations for the 13MP are already underway, with extensive consultations across ministries, industries, and civil society to ensure an inclusive and comprehensive strategy.

“This process also involves reviewing the achievements of the 12MP, allowing us to build on our successes as we chart the course forward,” he said.

Abang Johari said the Sarawak Economic Action Council (SEAC), comprising members of the Cabinet, academicians, industry players, and government officials will also be called to discuss and finalise the strategies and way forward under the 13MP.

He said efforts under the 13MP will remain multifaceted towards achieving the high-impact outcomes outlined in the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030.

“We recognise that challenges such as climate change, economic disparity, and global uncertainties still lie ahead.

“Hence, the 13MP emphasis will be on enhancing economic resilience through transformation and diversification, advancing digital transformation, fostering social inclusivity, and ensuring sustainability and equitability for all,” he added.

Source: The Borneo Post

Abg Jo: Sarawak economy to get RM100 bln investments in next 5 years

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s largest wealth funds with assets estimated to exceed US$1 trillion, is committed to continue increasing investments in Malaysia.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said ADIA, which has been investing in Malaysia for a long time, also wants to focus on creating greater value to ensure the success of investments in Malaysia in various sectors, including in the transformation of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd. (MAHB).

“As a high-impact global investor, ADIA plays an important role in the infrastructure, health, energy, and various other sectors globally.

“Its major investments at the international level include airports in the United Kingdom and France, Khalifa Port in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), as well as logistics infrastructure projects in India and energy projects in the United States,” he said in a statement here on Monday.

Tengku Zafrul accompanied Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on a three-day working visit to the UAE, where they held a meeting with the top leadership of ADIA based in Abu Dhabi.

He said the meeting in Abu Dhabi opened the way to strengthen strategic investment cooperation between Malaysia and the UAE.

“During this meeting, we discussed with Sheikh Hamed Zayed Al Nahyan, the managing director of ADIA, as well as other leaders such as Khalil Foulathi and Mohamed Al Ameri, who expressed a deep interest in investment opportunities in Malaysia,” he said.

He said that in Malaysia, ADIA’s commitment is evident through investments that are in line with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and the MADANI Economy framework.

“Its important contributions include a collaboration with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) in MAHB’s privatisation efforts, in addition to investing in major infrastructure projects that support the nation’s sustainable growth,” he added.

Tengku Zafrul said this clearly shows great confidence in the government’s investor-friendly policies that will benefit the people in the long term.

“Through this strategic relationship, we continue to ensure that Malaysia remains a prime destination for high-quality investment, while strengthening economic competitiveness, creating new job opportunities, and boosting the country’s economic development,” he said.

Apart from ADIA, the prime minister and Tengku Zafrul also held a meeting with two other UAE sovereign wealth funds namely Masdar and Mubadala.

Source: Bernama

ADIA to increase investments, create greater value in investments in Malaysia

The Johor government welcomes international health and medical industry players who wish to invest in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), thus making the sector a key contributor to the state’s economy.

State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said several parties have expressed interest in developing health facilities, including hospitals and pharmacies.

He added that foreign investors’ involvement in this industry would position Johor, particularly the JS-SEZ, as a focal point and hub for medical tourism.

“State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han and I had visited countries such as China, South Korea, Japan, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar to promote investment opportunities.

“These investors are confident in the potential of JS-SEZ and are keen to invest in the zone,” he told reporters after a Chinese New Year Dinner at the Che Eng Khor Moral Uplifting Society here last night, with Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi also present.

Source: Bernama

Johor welcomes investors to develop health, medical facilities in JS-SEZ

The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) has expressed keen interest in further exploring investment opportunities in Malaysia.

Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said this was conveyed to him and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in their meeting with the company’s senior leadership in Abu Dhabi today.

Zafrul said the discussion involved ADIA managing director Sheikh Hamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and other management figures such as Khalil Foulathi and Mohamed Al Ameri.

Tengku Zafrul described ADIA as one of the world’s biggest sovereign wealth funds with assets valued at more than US$1 trillion.

He said the meeting opened the door for the strengthening of strategic investment cooperation between Malaysia and the UAE.

AIDA, he said, played a key role in sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, energy and more globally.

Its international investments include airports in the United Kingdom and France, the Khalifa Port in the UAE, logistics facilities infrastructure projects in India, and energy in the United States.

“In Malaysia, its commitment is exemplified via investments in line with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030) and Madani Economy framework.

“Among its key contributions are its cooperation with Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) to privatise Malaysia Airports Bhd (MAHB), plus other major infrastructure projects which support national development,” he said.

He said that during the discussion, ADIA, a longtime investor in Malaysia, gave its commitment to elevate and focus on creating greater value to ensure the success of its investments in Malaysia, including MAHB’s transformation.

This, said Tengku Zafrul, demonstrated confidence in the government’s policies which are investor-friendly and can benefit the people in the long-term.

“Through these strategic ties, we will continue to ensure that Malaysia remains a major destination for high quality investments, thus strengthening economic competitiveness, create new job opportunities and spur economic development.

Anwar is currently on a three-day official visit to Abu Dhabi.

Earlier today, he held one-on-one business meetings with leaders from the UAE’s largest sovereign wealth fund companies.

These included ADIA’s Sheikh Hameed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Khaldoon Al Mubarak, managing director and chief executive officer of state-owned Mubadala Investment Company, and Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, chief executive officer of UAE energy giant Abu Dhabi Future Energy Co PJSC (Masdar), a subsidiary of Mubadala.

Source: NST

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority keen to explore more opportunities in Malaysia

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that his meetings with major companies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during his three-day working visit to the country will strengthen bilateral relations and boost the trade and investment cooperation that has been established.

Anwar began his second day of the visit by meeting with senior management from the country’s sovereign wealth funds, including the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Mubadala, and Masdar.

“We discussed strengthening bilateral relations and exploring collaborations in renewable energy, food and energy security, artificial intelligence (AI), as well as addressing mutual regional and global issues,” he said in a social media post today.

Anwar stated that during his meeting with ADIA, led by managing director Sheikh Hamed Zayed Al Nahyan, both sides were in agreement to continue enhancing investment cooperation and the achievements made during his previous visit.

“During the meeting with Mubadala managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, new and existing investment matters were also discussed,” he said.

Anwar added that issues related to investments in renewable energy projects were discussed during the meeting with Masdar’s CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi.

“We hope the positive investment momentum from these meetings will continue to grow, supported by the confidence and commitment of the industry players and major UAE companies,” he said.

Anwar arrived here on Sunday.

Source: Bernama

Meetings with UAE companies to strengthen bilateral ties, boost trade and investment – Anwar

Malaysia’s neutrality and openness to work with all parties make the nation a natural hub for investors, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The Prime Minister said that these were among the factors which led to economic success for the nation last year.

“In 2024, Malaysia successfully tamed inflation, reduced unemployment and stabilised our currency.

“We have had record highs in job creation but also the best performing stock market in Asean.

“Internationally, our foreign direct investments are historic and are region-leading in the areas of semiconductors and data centres,” he said in his keynote address when launching the Malaysia Economic Forum 2025 here on Thursday (Jan 9).

This, he said, was achieved by the unity government which had sought economic legitimacy through political stability after coming into power in 2022.

On Malaysia’s roadmap for 2025, Anwar said that it will capitalise on the country’s geographical centrality as a conduit for electricity, talent and supply chain diversification.

“At the same time, we want to refine our expertise in oil and gas, semiconductor and Islamic finance so we can be global market leaders in each field.

“It’s our neutrality and openness for partnership that make us a natural hub for all,” he added.

On Malaysia’s chairmanship of Asean, Anwar said that it comes at an opportune time.

He noted that this comes in light of the changing global economic landscape due to a move by the superpowers towards economic isolationism and protectionism.

“We are seeing a divergence opening.

“And that is the rare opportunity to recalibrate policy positions

toward economic pluralism, cooperation across multilateral platforms, and decisions infused with a moral conscience,” he said.

As Asia becomes the centre of the global economy, Anwar said that Asean is projected to be the fourth largest economic bloc in the world.

“The lion’s share of global growth will stem from a combination of Asean, India and China,” he added.

He said that Malaysia must take the lead in charting a path forward.

“A shifting world economic order, an empowered Asean, and a stable Malaysia means we are no longer satisfied with playing the spectator.

“We must therefore take up the mantle to chart the path forward in three leadership domains,” he said.

Leadership is demonstrated across three areas: strategic (society), team (group), and personal (individual) leadership.

Source: The Star

Malaysia’s neutrality, openness make it a natural hub for investors, says Anwar

MALAYSIA wants to leverage its location to become an energy and chip manufacturing hub this year, riding a recent jump in investments and a favourable outlook for the domestic economy, its premier and economic minister said on Thursday.

Malaysia is fast becoming a haven in Southeast Asia, with foreign investors returning as improving growth and a stable currency set it apart from peers grappling with political flux and economic uncertainty.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said Malaysia’s economy rebounded dramatically last year, spurred by an influx of strategic investments, most substantially in renewable energy and artificial intelligence infrastructure. He added inflation and the ringgit were stable and the stock market was the region’s top performer.

“In 2025, we want to double down on our geographical centrality, as a conduit for electricity, talent and supply chain diversification,” he said at an economic forum.

Anwar said Malaysia will now aim to refine its expertise in oil and gas, semiconductors, and Islamic finance to become a global market leader in each field.

Economy minister Rafizi Ramli said Malaysia is looking to produce its own graphics processing unit chips as demand for artificial intelligence and data centres grows.

“We are hoping that we can start producing made-by-Malaysia GPUs and chips in the next five to 10 years,” he said.

Malaysia, a major player in the semiconductor industry that accounts for 13% of global testing and packaging, is targeting over $100 billion in investment for the sector.

Source: The Star

Malaysia aiming to become energy, chip making hub

Details of the new investment incentive scorecard, aimed to ensure investments that bring broader economic benefit to the rakyat, is expected to be announced in the second quarter of 2025 (2Q2025), according to Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry Liew Chin Tong.

Giving an idea of what criteria interested investors could expect to see on the scorecard, Liew noted that setting up shop in least developed states or good ESG practices will play a part in scoring higher. 

“We want to see whether industries can help level the playing field between more advanced cities and the least developed states. The scorecard is with that intention,” Liew said during a panel discussion at the Malaysia Economic Forum 2025 on Thursday.

The scorecard is a continuation of the National Investment Aspirations (NIA) launched back in 2022. Back then, while investment incentive frameworks were set up, Liew noted that a standardised scorecard was not created.

With the new scorecard, Liew said the government wants to see investments bring in more jobs as well as support Malaysia’s development of a more complex economy.

“That means we do not want to incentivise an industry that does not help us create a more complex economy. We do not want to incentivise an industry that does not value-add,” he said.

 “We need a new consensus on how to develop and incentivise our industries. Quite often, you hear noises or comments that various governments over the years favour foreign investment. Now, this [scorecard] is also one way to level the playing field.

“Regardless, of whether foreign or local investment, the point is we want to see some of these objectives being achieved,” he added. 

Liew said the investment incentive scorecard is not under the purview of Miti but the Ministry of Finance, which will announce its details in 2Q2025.

It was previously reported that the criteria of the scorecard would be based on New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030.

The NIMP is guided by four key missions, namely advancing economic complexity, tech up for a digitally vibrant nation, pushing for net zero, and safeguarding economic security and inclusivity.

Source: The Edge Malaysia

Details on new investment incentive scorecard to be announced in 2Q — deputy minister

The government refuses to incentivise industries that does not add value to the economy under the  New Investment Incentive Framework. 

Investment, Trade and Industry Deputy Minister Liew Chin Tong said the government wants investment in industries that can help level the playing field between the more advanced cities and less developed states. 

He added that the new framework is intended to find ways that will develop industries in the country. 

“Malaysia is at the right time to shine as we have accumulated quite a number of strengths which were ignored during the period of time when China was the factory for the world.” 

“Today, the world has changed and Malaysia is well positioned to take advantage of the complex world. But we can’t do it alone , we must do it together with Asean,” he said at a panel session at Forum Ekonomi Malaysia. 

“The intention is also to level the playing field. Regardless of it being a local or foreign investment, we want to see some of these objectives achieved,” he said. 

In a separate panel session, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said with the development of the framework, the government wants to be transparent to those who intend to invest in Malaysia. 

“Clarifying the infrastructure is what we bring to the investment framework. It also needs to address national needs. 

“We bring in higher investments that create better job quality for Malaysians,” he said. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the New Investment Incentive Framework during the tabling of Budget 2025. 

It includes a strategic investment fund worth RM1 billion and is aimed at enhancing the capacity of local talent and encouraging the growth of high-value activities in the country. 

Source: NST

Government will only incentivise investments that add value to Malaysian economy – Liew

As the 2025 Asean chair Malaysia will focus on leveraging the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world’s largest trade agreement now in force.

Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said fully implementing the RCEP could position Asean as a hub for regional growth.

This could be the key highlight of Malaysia’s chairmanship, he said in his closing remarks at the Asean Economic Opinion Leaders Conference: Outlook for 2025.

RCEP involves 15 countries — the 10 Asean member countries namely, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, and the other five being Australia, China, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

RCEP is the world’s largest free trade agreement (FTA). It makes up about 30 per cent of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and about a third of the world’s population.

It has a mechanism for free trade among participating countries with a set of rules and procedures for accessing preferential tariffs across the countries.

Tengku Zafrul said Malaysia also intends to strongly drive negotiations on the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), launched in 2023.

By 2030, the digital economy could add US$2 trillion to the region, but for that to happen, Malaysia must help Asean nations harmonise their digital policies, he said.

As the Asean chair, Malaysia will also propose a joint declaration on the Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) economic cooperation during the 46th Asean Summit in May 2025.

This declaration will pave the way for closer economic ties with the GCC, a region with significant economic potential, Tengku Zafrul said.

Source: Bernama

Fully implementing RCEP could position Asean as a hub for regional growth — Tengku Zafrul

The Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) agreement signed on January 7 is expected to bring immense benefits to Malaysia, particularly Johor, positioning the state as a central economic hub in the future.

Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) Technology Management and Business Faculty senior lecturer Mohamed Ismail KP Pakir Mohamed, said the agreement is poised to attract industry players and foreign investors, significantly boosting job opportunities.

As the head of UTHM’s Manufacturing Technology Management Focus Group, Mohamed Ismail noted that key sectors within the JS-SEZ, such as oil and gas, data centres, and semiconductors, will create job prospects for graduates of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

“In the long term, TVET graduates will meet market demand, and with the JS-SEZ, job opportunities will flourish. Skilled and semi-skilled workers nationwide will also focus on this area,” he said in an interview with Bernama today.

He added that over the next five to ten years, fewer Malaysians may need to seek work abroad, particularly in Singapore, as companies and investors from Singapore are expected to establish operations within the JS-SEZ. This development could have a positive impact on Malaysia’s economy.

Mohamed Ismail also highlighted the potential for growth in education within the JS-SEZ, noting the likelihood of international schools and other educational institutions establishing branches, similar to developments in Forest City and Iskandar Puteri.

“Population growth is expected, not only from across Malaysia but also through the arrival of skilled foreign workers. Residents will benefit from business opportunities, particularly in the food and retail sectors,” he said.

He added that the JS-SEZ would strengthen Malaysia-Singapore ties beyond economics, opening doors to collaborations in various fields.

The JS-SEZ is expected to impact the tourism sector as Singaporean investors operating in Johor may explore other parts of Malaysia.

“This collaboration echoes historical ties when Malaysia and Singapore worked closely together as part of the same country,” Mohamed Ismail said.

For the JS-SEZ to achieve its potential, Mohamed Ismail emphasised the need for both state and federal governments to enhance infrastructure and facilities, drawing parallels to Shenzhen, China.

“Housing should be prioritised as demand will increase. The government must build more affordable housing for local workers relocating to the area,” he said.

He called for improved public transport, including better bus services and a robust rail network similar to the Klang Valley. Revisiting the High-Speed Rail (HSR) project connecting key cities like Batu Pahat and Muar would further facilitate commuting.

Additionally, Mohamed Ismail suggested upgrading cargo and passenger facilities at Senai International Airport and exploring the construction of mini airports in key districts to reduce reliance on Singapore’s airports.

The West Coast Expressway (WCE) project linking Banting in Selangor to Gelang Patah in Johor was also commended for its potential to connect the western coast of Peninsular Malaysia to the JS-SEZ.

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

Source: Bernama

JS-SEZ: A game-changer for Johor’s economy, job market

Melaka recorded encouraging investments of RM5 billion as of last September,“ said Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh.

He said the amount comprised RM0.8 billion in foreign investment and RM4.2 billion from domestic investors.

“This achievement is something to be proud of because it indirectly demonstrates the confidence of foreign investors in the state’s development and economic potential.

“It is also a positive step that can inspire stakeholders to continue to work hard and strengthen cooperation in achieving greater progress for Melaka,“ he said at the MCORP Group Gala Dinner which was also attended by State Secretary Datuk Azhar Arshad and State Investment, Industry and TVET Development Committee chairman Datuk Khaidhirah Abu Zahar.

Ab Rauf expressed the need for continuous to attract investors to the state, especially in the tourism sector with Melaka once again capturing global attention this September being the host for World Tourism Day and the World Tourism Conference 2025.

“In light of this, I encourage MCORP to remain optimistic and proactive in enhancing investment promotion efforts, thereby fostering a conducive investment climate to attract more investors to the state,“ he said.

He also highlighted that as of last November, MCORP’s eight subsidiaries recorded a profit of RM7.7 million, marking an increase of RM4.3 million compared to the same period in 2023.

“This achievement is expected to be a catalyst for further success, demonstrating MCORP’s potential to lead Melaka’s development in a more dynamic and sustainable direction,“ he added.

Source: Bernama

Melaka records investments worth RM5 bilion as of September last year

Investors in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), will enjoy new tax incentive packages announced by the Johor state government and Finance Ministry.

Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the tax incentive package that took effect on Jan 1, aims to position Johor as a premier destination for high-value investments and bolster economic ties with Singapore.

Investors in JS-SEZ are eligible for suite incentives that include a special corporate tax rate of five per cent for up to 15 years for companies investing in advanced sectors such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, medical devices, aerospace manufacturing, and global services hubs.

The prevailing corporate tax rate in Malaysia stands at 24 per cent. However, companies in the selected sectors typically enjoy special tax rates on a case-by-case basis.

Eligible knowledge workers in the JS-SEZ will enjoy a 15 per cent income tax rate for 10 years, while businesses in flagship areas will receive bespoke incentives.

He said tailor-made incentives were also allocated to certain businesses operating in flagship development focus areas.

“The collaboration between the Johor and the Madani governments allowed for this transformative package in JS-SEZ, to ensure it’s a strong foundation to attract quality investments.

“This initiative solidifies Johor’s position as a key trade and maritime hub,” he said in a statement today

He added the JS-SEZ incentive provided the much-needed stimulus to elevate Johor’s standing on the global investment map.

In addition to the tax incentive package, the government also agreed to introduce lower entertainment duties, beginning Jan 1.

Meanwhile,  Finance Minister II Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the JS-SEZ will be a driving force in Malaysia’s economic growth.

“The package exemplifies the government’s commitment to making Malaysia a top investment destination.

“It leverages Johor’s strategic location and synergy with Singapore to create high-income jobs and attract global businesses,” he said.

The JS-SEZ tax incentives are additional to existing incentive packages offered and complement the New Investment Incentive Framework (NIIF) introduced in Budget 2025 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The framework seeks to promote sustainable, high-value industries to achieve equitable economic growth nationwide.

To streamline the investment process, the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J) has been established to provide end-to-end support, including applications, approvals, and reinvestments.

The JS-SEZ agreement, witnessed by Anwar and Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong during the 11th Malaysia-Singapore Leaders’ Retreat, reflected the deep bilateral ties and partnership between the two nations.

Further details on the flagship zones and incentives are expected to be announced soon.

Source: NST

Johor-Singapore SEZ: New incentive package to attract high-value investments

Malaysia welcomes direct investments from Indonesian companies and encourages strategic collaborations such as mergers between companies owned by Malaysian and Indonesian entities, said Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The prime minister and finance minister said this initiative will further strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

“I raised this matter during a courtesy visit from Sinar Mas chairman Franky Oesman Widjaja and his delegation this afternoon.

“I also informed them that, in the context of Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship this year, the success of infrastructure development across various countries requires confidence and strong cooperation among ASEAN companies,” he said in a post on his social media accounts today.

The prime minister said Sinar Mas was one of Indonesia’s leading business groups, operating in seven key sectors: pulp and paper, agriculture and food, financial services, real estate, telecommunications, energy and infrastructure, and healthcare services.

Source: Bernama

Anwar: Malaysia welcomes Indonesian investment, strategic mergers