Malaysia’s robust economic growth amid a global economic downturn provides a vital gateway for Chinese firms seeking to enter the Asean market, says Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

The Investment, Trade and Industry Minister said Malaysia’s vibrant open market and trade utility, backed by numerous bilateral and multilateral agreements, made the country a strategic base for investors wanting to export goods and services.

“We are also upgrading the China-Asean Trade and Services Agreement, which will further enhance trade opportunities.

“Our open market policy provides an excellent platform for businesses to leverage Malaysia as a hub for regional and global trade,” he told Malaysian and Chinese business leaders at the “Invest in Malaysia, Expand Beyond: A Global Vision for the Future” forum at the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference (WAPC) here yesterday.

Tengku Zafrul highlighted several factors that gave Malaysia the edge as an investment destination.

“Our robust infrastructure, with strong energy capacity and a net zero target by 2050, supports extensive manufacturing exports, particularly in electrical and electronics (E&E) products,” he said.

The minister said Malaysia’s policy consistency, despite regime changes, fosters a stable environment for long-term business growth, especially in the semiconductor industry.

“Malaysia’s skilled and multilingual workforce also enhances its attractiveness. Our diverse talent pool makes Malaysia ideal for various industries,” he added.

He welcomed global companies to co-invest in five sectors where Malaysia has a competitive edge: E&E, chemical and petrochemical, digital economy, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and aerospace, to help build a thriving ecosystem, and emphasised a collaborative approach for Asean and Malaysia to thrive.

“We don’t believe in a zero-sum game. A stronger Asean benefits us all, and we are committed to fostering sustainable, inclusive and equitable growth across the region,” he said.

On geopolitics, Tengku Zafrul said the evolving global landscape, particularly shifts in US policies, presents both challenges and opportunities, adding that many companies from China, Europe, the United States and Australia are seeking to “de-risk” their supply chains.

“Malaysia’s position as a neutral country within Asean makes it an attractive destination. We believe in Asean centrality and engage actively with all global partners,” he said.

Looking ahead, he said Malaysia is set to host the Asean-GCC China Summit next May 2025.

“The focus will also be on upgrading the Asean-China FTA next year, acknowledging China as Malaysia’s top trading partner for 15 consecutive years. This is expected to significantly boost trade between Asean, Malaysia and China,” he said.

Source: The Star

Tengku Zafrul: Malaysia perfect gateway to Asean markets

Malaysia intends to leverage its Asean chairmanship in 2025 to position the region, and the country itself, as a vibrant hub for investment, trade and industry, particularly in helping to make global supply chains resilient.

To this end, it is effectively working on aligning itself with the region’s bigger vision of attracting the right investments into Southeast Asia, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said here on Monday. He said that Asean, which is “fiercely neutral and non-aligned, is in a truly sweet spot for attracting more investments, particularly in manufacturing.”

Manufacturing only comprised 22% cent in 2022 versus services which took up the lion’s share of almost 74% cent of investments into Asean, he said in his keynote address at the 5th World Association Presidents’ Conference here on Monday. He told participants at the conference entitled ‘Invest in Malaysia: Expand Beyond’ that Malaysia’s chairmanship will focus on upping investments in manufacturing, particularly on electric vehicles, semiconductors and the digital economy.

Tengku Zafrul also expressed optimism that Malaysia’s chairmanship in promoting cross-border investments such as with China and Middle East countries, will lead to transformative economic exchanges and innovations while driving substantial cross-regional economic growth and investments.

The theme for Malaysia’s upcoming chairmanship is “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” which “spells out Malaysia’s intention to guide Asean towards an equitable, sustainable and inclusive growth,” the minister said.

“As Asean advances its industrial goals, Malaysia’s contribution is in the form of its semiconductor capacity, which helps secure the global supply chain for this vital industry and which is recognised as the lifeblood of modern lifestyle, innovation and technological growth. This is why we came up with the National Semiconductor Strategy (NSS), which aims to strengthen Malaysia’s, and by extension, Asean’s position as a pivotal player in the global semiconductor landscape,” said Tengku Zafrul.

“Thanks to our clear policies, strong investment policies and rule of law, we have been recognised as an attractive destination for various investments such as semiconductors, medical devices and data centres,” he added. This has culminated in approved investments increasing by 18% for Malaysia as of June 2024, generating over 79,000 new jobs, he noted.

“This demonstrates Malaysia’s continued appeal to investors and resilience in the face of global economic uncertainty,” he said, adding that out of total foreign investments, 13% came from China.

“Moving forward, our vision is for both Asean and Malaysia to continue to attract global enterprises to invest in the abundant opportunities afforded by our diverse economies,” he said.

For Malaysia, at the heart of this pathway is the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), a mission-based holistic industrial policy that aims to reform our industrial base from advancing economic complexity; to fostering digital vibrancy by integrating digital technologies across industries, and from pushing for Net Zero to safeguarding economic security and inclusivity, he said.

He said Asean’s senior economic officials were busy preparing for their upcoming meeting just two days away, on Dec 4-5 in Kota Kinabalu to finalise the Priority Economic Deliverables (or PEDs) that characterise the substantive targets for trade and investments in industry, to be achieved by the upcoming Chair or host country.

There would also be an Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)-China Summit in May 2025, which is poised to be another landmark event on enhancing cross-regional investments, especially in sectors like semiconductors, electric vehicles, and renewable energy.

As Asean fosters stronger connections between Asia and the Middle East, “there are opportunities for all of us to help strengthen both regional and global supply chains through such multilateral dialogues.”

Malaysia’s agenda is to attract investments guided by policies such as the National Semiconductor Strategy, the New Energy Transition Roadmap, the Green Investment Strategy and its Circular Policy Framework for the Manufacturing Sector.

As chair, the minister said Malaysia will advocate for policies that promote social equity, financial accessibility, and inclusive participation in the Asean economic community.

“We aim to empower all segments of society, particularly women, youths and startups, ensuring that everyone has a chance to thrive and get a fair share of Asean’s prosperity.

Through the economic pillar, “our commitment to these goals are centred around four strategic thrusts, which are to enhance intra-Asean trade and investments, create an inclusive and sustainable future, promote the integration and connectivity of economies as well as build a digitally resilient Asean,” said Tengku Zafrul.

Source: Bernama

MITI ready to help secure global supply chains via Asean’s economic pillar — Tengku Zafrul

Perak recorded impressive investment performance from January to June this year, with total investments amounting to RM3.04 billion across 166 projects, the State Assembly was told today.

State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman, Loh Sze Yee said out of the total, RM2.85 billion came from domestic investments, while RM184.2 million was from foreign investments.

He said the manufacturing sector contributed RM601.5 million from 30 projects (RM457.3 million in domestic investments and RM144.2 million in foreign investments), while the services sector accounted for RM2.44 billion from 136 projects (RM2.40 billion in domestic investments and RM40.0 million in foreign investments).

“These investments (in these sectors) are expected to create 1,560 job opportunities, with 1,249 jobs in the manufacturing sector and 311 jobs in the services sector,” he said during the question-and answer session.

Loh (PH-Jalong) was replying to a question from Ong Seng Guan (PH-Pokok Assam), who inquired about Perak’s investment performance, particularly in the industrial sector in Taiping this year.

Meanwhile, Loh noted that in Taiping alone, approved investments during the same period totalled RM272.7 million, comprising RM112.3 million in domestic investments and RM160.4 million in foreign
investments.

“These projects, managed under the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), include 17 projects that are expected to create 277 job opportunities,” he added.

Source: Bernama

Perak draws over RM3 bln in investments from Jan-June 2024

As the ASEAN chair in 2025, Malaysia has the opportunity to boost investor confidence and continue positioning the region as a primary investment destination, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

In a post on Facebook today, he said that Malaysia is on the right track to strengthen its position as a trading nation and a rapidly growing economy despite geopolitical uncertainties.

“This afternoon, I took some time to discuss the global economic and financial situation when receiving a courtesy visit from HSBC Asia Pacific chairman Peter Wong, and HSBC Bank Malaysia chief executive officer Omar Siddiq, along with their delegation at my office.

“Insya-Allah, with the policies and direction of the MADANI government, these efforts will be integrated at the ASEAN level for the advancement and prosperity of the region,” Anwar said.

Source: Bernama

Opportunity for Malaysia to strengthen investor confidence in ASEAN – PM Anwar

We’re in a prime position to help chinese companies expand, says Wee

Malaysia is in a prime position to serve as a gateway for Chinese companies seeking to expand beyond China and tap into the Asean market, says MCA president Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong

He said Malaysia is a strategic hub in South-east Asia, which can be used by Chinese companies to expand their economic cooperation within Asean, while also leveraging it as a stepping stone to access global markets and explore further business opportunities.

“This is where the World Association Presidents’ Conference (WAPC) leverage these advantages and provide a platform for businesses from both countries to connect and cooperate,” Dr Wee said ahead of the 5th WAPC set to take place here today.

The conference, the first to be held outside China, serves as a vital platform for advancing Malaysia-china friendship and deepening cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), said Dr Wee.

He noted that the event will bring together more than 700 association and business leaders, facilitating the exploration of new opportunities, comprehension of emerging trends, and strategic adaptation to future challenges.

“The theme of the 5th WAPC is ‘Promoting Trade Liberalisation, Advancing Economic Globalisation’.

“Although the global economy shows signs of recovery post-pandemic, uncertainties such as trade wars persist. MCA aims to assist businesses in navigating these complexities while playing a bridging role to enhance Malaysia-china cooperation and further the BRI,” he said.

Dr Wee stressed the urgency for Malaysia to seize all available business opportunities, as neighbouring countries like Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia are also actively vying for the lucrative Chinese market.

“We must act swiftly and strategically to ensure our competitive edge, leveraging our unique strengths to capture a significant share of the Chinese market. By doing so, Malaysia can secure its position as a key player in regional trade dynamics and maximise the benefits of its partnerships with China,” he said.

When asked about Chinese companies entering the Malaysian market, Dr Wee encouraged local businesses to remain confident and adapt to the changing landscape.

“We must seize opportunities and avoid stagnation. If they are leveraging artificial intelligence, we need to adjust accordingly,” he said.

Dr Wee also highlighted Malaysia’s strategic geographic position, robust technological foundation in the semiconductor and chip industries, and the thriving halal food sector as key assets that can drive future growth and successful collaborations with Chinese enterprises.

“With the right adjustments, we can go far. By preparing for challenges and forming strategic alliances in China’s vast market with its enormous domestic demand, we can effectively offer our products and services,” he said.

The WAPC, initiated in 2020 by China’s Hangzhou government, was created as a platform for global businesses to exchange ideas and foster cooperation during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Malaysian edition is co-hosted by the MCA, Malaysia-china Friendship Association, and the China Enterprises Chamber of Commerce in Malaysia.

“The year 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China. Both countries have always placed great importance on our bilateral ties, and we have engaged in exchanges and collaborations across various sectors.

“In September, we held in-depth discussions with the WAPC organising committee chairman Liu Jiang and his delegation, and reached a consensus to bring the conference to Malaysia,” said Dr Wee.

The conference will focus on four core areas – digital economy, healthcare, green energy and financial innovation – key sectors for global economic development and for deepening Malaysia-china cooperation.

Attendees will benefit from a comprehensive programme, including an economic forum, corporate matchmaking sessions, keynote speeches and a closed-door round-table meeting for presidents and CEOS.

Keynote speakers include Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Ministers, Cabinet ministers, and state leaders, who will discuss technology, investment, trade, Malaysia-china relations and government policies.

Business matching sessions will cover, among others, healthcare, halal industry, food and agriculture, real estate, industrial energy and digital commerce, offering targeted networking for the expected 700 entrepreneurs from Malaysia and China.

Six closed-door round-table meetings will be hosted by MCA leaders, focusing on topics such as biomedicine, green energy, food and agriculture, tourism, e-commerce and industrial parks.

Dr Wee said these sessions will provide opportunities for direct interaction with government representatives and industry leaders, facilitating new business opportunities.

“For example, our Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz will brief Chinese businesses interested in expanding into Malaysia. What’s greater than finding out from the minister himself about what to expect?” he asked.

Dr Wee also highlighted the significance of MCA in organising the conference, given its key role in fostering Malaysia-china diplomatic relations.

In the early 1970s, then MCA deputy president, the late Tun Michael Chen Wing Sum, led a delegation to China for a table tennis event, which paved the way for the establishment of formal diplomatic ties on May 31, 1974, through “ping-pong diplomacy”.

“Over the past 50 years, MCA has continued to play an active role in Malaysiachina relations.

“It is apparent from the Belt and Road Committee formed in 2013 to the Malaysiachina Belt and Road Economic and Trade Information Consultation Centre formed in October this year to promote bilateral economic and trade cooperation,” said Dr Wee.

The conference will culminate in a gala dinner celebrating the 50th anniversary of Malaysia-china diplomatic relations, where Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will deliver a keynote address.

Taking place at Wisma MCA on Jalan Ampang here, the conference will utilise the building’s notable venues, including San Choon Hall and various meeting facilities across its floors, said Dr Wee.

“Surrounded by shopping malls, parks and other attractions, the location offers a range of leisure activities for the family members of attendees, providing them with ample opportunities to enjoy their time while the conference is under way,” he added.

Source: The Star

Malaysia can be the gateway

The development of Indonesia’s new capital, Nusantara or Ibu Kota Nusantara (IKN), represents one of Southeast Asia’s most ambitious urbanization projects, with far-reaching implications for regional economic growth and investment.

For Sabah’s investors and businessmen, IKN presents a golden opportunity to engage in diverse sectors ranging from infrastructure to green energy, real estate and technology.

An overview of IKN development

Spread over an expansive 322,429 hectares, IKN is envisioned as a sustainable and futuristic capital that balances urbanization with environmental conservation. The land area is divided into:

1. Core Government Central Area (KIPP): Spanning 6,671 hectares, this zone includes key government offices, the presidential palace, and other administrative buildings.

2. Urban Development Area (KIKN): Covering 56,159 hectares, this zone integrates educational, healthcare, research and commercial hubs.

3. Sustainable Development Zone (KPIKN): Spanning 196,501 hectares, this zone focuses on ecological preservation and sustainable urban development.

IKN also includes an additional 69,769 hectares of marine areas for public and logistical use, further solidifying its vision as a multifaceted capital.

Latest milestones in IKN construction

The construction progress in IKN underscores Indonesia’s commitment to its development goals. As of late 2024:

1. Infrastructure Progress:

• The presidential palace and national plaza are nearing completion with progress rates of 95.4% and 94.3%, respectively.

• Key highways and logistic ports have achieved 100% completion in their initial phases, ensuring efficient connectivity.

• The first phase of the solar power plant (10 MW) has been completed, with an additional 40 MW underway, reflecting IKN’s commitment to renewable energy.

2. Civil Development:

• Forty-seven high-rise residential towers for civil servants and security forces are under construction, with several already completed.

• Modern healthcare facilities, including hospitals specializing in oncology, cardiovascular care, and general medicine, are operational or in advanced stages of construction.

3. Green Initiatives:

• Significant investments have been made in water treatment plants, waste management systems, and the creation of expansive green spaces.

• The Sepaku Semoi Dam has been completed, ensuring long-term water security for the city.

Investment opportunities for Sabah entrepreneurs

For Sabah investors and businessmen, IKN offers a unique chance to leverage their expertise and resources in several high-potential sectors:

1. Infrastructure Development
IKN’s ongoing and planned infrastructure projects require expertise in:

• Road and bridge construction.

• Water supply systems and sewage treatment.

• Logistics facilities, including warehouses and transport hubs.

Sabah’s construction firms, equipped with experience in large-scale projects such as the Pan Borneo Highway, are well-positioned to contribute to these initiatives.

2. Renewable Energy

With an emphasis on green energy, IKN is actively developing solar, wind and hydropower projects. Sabah’s expertise in renewable energy, particularly in solar and micro-hydro projects, aligns with IKN’s sustainable development goals. Partnerships with Indonesian stakeholders could unlock cross-border opportunities in this sector.

3. Real Estate and Housing

The rising demand for residential, commercial and mixed-use properties in IKN presents lucrative opportunities. Sabah developers can collaborate with Indonesian counterparts to deliver housing solutions that cater to civil servants, expatriates and private sector employees relocating to the capital.

4. Healthcare and Education

With plans for advanced medical facilities and educational institutions, Sabah’s healthcare providers and academic institutions can explore joint ventures in:

• Hospital management and specialized care.

• Establishing international schools and vocational training centers.

5. Technology and Innovation

IKN aims to be a smart city with state-of-the-art digital infrastructure. This opens doors for Sabah’s tech entrepreneurs to offer solutions in:

• Smart transportation and energy grids.

• E-governance platforms and cybersecurity.

• Artificial intelligence and IoT applications.

6. Hospitality and Tourism

Given its MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) facilities and green spaces, IKN is poised to become a hub for business tourism. Sabah’s hospitality brands and tour operators can expand their reach by investing in hotels, resorts, and event management services in IKN.

Policy support and collaboration opportunities

Indonesia’s government has introduced investor-friendly policies to encourage private and international investments in IKN. These include:

• Tax holidays and incentives for priority sectors.

• Simplified land acquisition and project approval processes.

• Public-private partnership (PPP) models to facilitate joint investments.

Sabah’s businessmen can also leverage regional platforms such as ASEAN to strengthen trade and investment ties. Collaborative efforts with Indonesian businesses, facilitated through trade missions and forums, can further enhance bilateral economic engagement.

The strategic advantage for Sabah

Sabah’s geographical proximity to Kalimantan, combined with its established industries in agriculture, energy and construction, positions it as a key partner in IKN’s development. Furthermore, Sabah’s membership in the BIMP-EAGA (Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area) provides a strategic framework for cross-border trade and collaboration.

Conclusion: Building the future together

The development of IKN signifies more than just the creation of a new capital; it represents a paradigm shift in sustainable urbanization and regional integration. For Sabah’s investors and businessmen, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to participate in shaping a transformative project that promises mutual economic growth.

By leveraging existing strengths, fostering strategic partnerships and embracing innovation, Sabah’s business community can play a pivotal role in IKN’s success story. The golden opportunities in IKN await those ready to seize them — the time to act is now.

Source: Borneo Post

Nusantara unlocks golden opportunities for Sabah investors, businessmen

Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and his delegation will leave for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Monday, in a strategic bid to attract more foreign direct investments (FDI) to the state.

The trip will include working visits to key entities such as Abu Dhabi’s global investment firm and energy company, the Dubai International Financial Centre, the Jebel Ali Free Trade Zone, and meetings with potential investor companies.

The delegation will feature prominent figures including Johor’s Economic, Tourism and Cultural Office chairman Datuk Hasni Mohammad, State Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han, State Youth, Sports, Entrepreneur Development, Cooperatives and Human Resources Committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah, alongside representatives from Invest Johor, the Malaysia Investment Development Council (Mida), and the state’s National Sports Council.

Onn Hafiz said that this international push was a continuation of successful engagements in Singapore, China, Japan, and South Korea.

He said that a significant aspect of the trip would be a meeting with former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in Abu Dhabi to discuss Johor’s youth development programmes and the potential establishment of an official Khabib training gymnasium in the state.

Khabib, who previously expressed interest in investing in Johor, had earlier met Johor’s Regent Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim in Johor Baru and had also engaged with Onn Hafiz and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during his recent visit to Malaysia.

Onn Hafiz said that promoting Johor on the international stage was vital for creating jobs, stimulating opportunities, and driving the state’s economic growth.

In October, he and his team engaged with 83 companies in South Korea, where they showcased the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ) initiatives.

They then visited Japan, where Fuji Oil Asia Pte Ltd signed a deal with Johor Plantations Group Bhd to establish a RM500 million refinery in Kota Tinggi.

In March, the delegation’s visit to China’s Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) led to investment opportunities for Johor surpassing RM1 billion.

On the JS-SEZ, Onn Hafiz said that he recently held an online meeting with Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan to finalise the agreement, which is set to be signed by Malaysia and Singapore in December.

“We are finalising incentives for all sectors and flagship areas. Execution will be our next challenge, as it’s not enough to have plans on paper,” he told the New Straits Times.

Johor is projected to achieve its highest-ever revenue this year, surpassing RM2 billion.

Onn Hafiz reiterated that the state government was committed to channelling this success into initiatives that benefit the people, ensuring economic growth translated into tangible improvements for Johoreans.

Source: NST

Onn Hafiz leads Johor’s UAE investment drive, meets MMA fighter Khabib

Malaysia’s diplomatic ties with the United States remain strong, sustaining a comprehensive partnership and cooperation, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

He noted that despite US Secretary of State Antony John Blinken’s impending departure from office, discussions and collaborations continue in areas of investment, trade, and diplomatic cooperation.

With a new US president and administration taking office, Malaysia expects these positive ties to continue.

“From January to October 2024, total bilateral trade between Malaysia and the United States saw a significant increase of 29.1% to RM264.28bil (US$57.76bil), up from RM204.78 bil (US$45.09bil), for the same period in 2023,” Anwar said during Minister Questions Time at Dewan Rakyat on Thursday (Nov 28).

He highlighted that 1,321 projects have been implemented and are ready to be managed, with a total investment amounting to US$39bil (RM173bil).

He was responding to RSN Rayer (PH-Jelutong) to ask the Prime Minister to state whether Malaysia faces any risk of trade sanctions from the United States due to the Prime Minister’s outspoken stance in defending the rights of the Palestinian people and nation.

However, the Prime Minister expressed concerns about recent developments, including tariff-related actions for Mexico, Canada, and China.

He said that these issues do not involve fundamental foreign matters but rather payment matters between the two countries where there is a deficit, as incoming US President Donald Trump announced during his campaign.

“We are now conducting all relations with the new team to the best ability.

“However, as a neighbouring and sovereign country, our position on international issues, including terrorism, injustice, oppression, and colonisation in Palestine and Gaza will continue to be voiced.

“I do not believe that economic considerations, while very important, can affect our stance or reduce or maintain our stance in voicing the rights, demands, and justice for the people of Palestine, especially in Gaza,” he added.

Source: The Star

Malaysia’s ties with US remain strong, says Anwar

Mexico and Malaysia can leverage on their respective strengths to explore collaboration opportunities across multiple sectors, said Ambassador of Mexico to Malaysia, Luis Javier Campuzano Piña.

In a statement from the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Sarawak (ACCCIS) today, he highlighted the thriving bilateral trade and investment potential between Malaysia and Mexico, during a visit to the association.

“Despite the geographical distance, bilateral trade is thriving.

“Malaysia is currently Mexico’s 9th largest trading partner, offering significant opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs in both countries,” he said.

His visit to the ACCCIS today also discussed in depth on key areas of collaboration, including the Sarawak’s Post-Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030; renewable energy such as hydropower and solar, oil and gas; technology industries like semiconductors and aerospace, plantation, education; and the Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) system.

The meeting fostered a friendly atmosphere, with both parties agreeing to maintain close ties and explore joint initiatives.

Among the plans discussed was an online business matching session, aimed at connecting entrepreneurs from both countries to create mutually beneficial business opportunities.

The visit underscores the commitment to strengthening the trade and cultural bonds between Malaysia and Mexico, paving the way for future collaboration across various sectors.

Present during Campuzano’s visit were ACCCIS Deputy Chairman of the Construction, Property, and Infrastructure Committee Fam Khing Foh; ACCCIS Deputy Chairman of the Commerce Committee Ho Siew Hua; ACCCIS Deputy Chairman of the Legal Affairs Committee Su Chua Phin; and ACCCIS secretary-general Dato Jonathan Chai.

Source: Borneo Post

Mexico, Malaysia can leverage strength to explore collab opportunities, says ambassador

Singapore, Australia, Japan and Malaysia lead the rankings as Asia-Pacific’s (APAC) leading lifestyle and investment hotspots, according to global real estate consultancy and estate agency, Knight Frank.

In its latest report, Quality Life-ing: Mapping Prime Residential Hotspots, Knight Frank evaluated 15 prominent markets based on five leading indicators: Economy, Human Capital, Quality of Life, Environment, and Infrastructure and Mobility.

“This comprehensive analysis aims to assist prospective movers in identifying the ideal location which aligns with their specific needs and preferences,” it said in a statement today.

According to the report, Malaysia, emerging as a hub for technological innovation, is attracting major tech companies like Oracle and Microsoft due to its favourable business climate.

“The country’s prime residential market is poised for stability and gradual growth, reflecting the broaderresilience of the APAC region’s real estate sector.

“Kuala Lumpur also remains the most affordable market in APAC, with prime residential prices at US$242 per square feet, making it a top choice for expatriate relocations,” said Knight Frank (US$1=RM4.455).

It added that despite facing challenges from rising interest rates, the Malaysian property market has shown signs of recovery, with significant transactions recorded in early 2024.

“The government’s initiatives, such as maintaining interest rates at 3.0 per cent and offering stamp duty exemptions for first-time homebuyers, are expected to stimulate demand.

“Kuala Lumpur is a focal point for this growth, where new residential projects are catering to evolving buyer preferences, particularly among single-family households seeking lifestyle-oriented developments,” said the agency.

It also said that the appeal of Malaysia’s real estate is enhanced by its strategic location and cultural richness, making it an attractive option for both local and foreign investors looking for quality residential opportunities.

Knight Frank Malaysia group managing director Keith Ooi said Malaysia’s unique position as a rising hub for technological innovation is attracting global attention, especially in the realm of digital transformation.

“The presence of major players like Oracle and Microsoft, coupled with competitive wages and a business-friendly environment, underscores the nation’s growing appeal as a strategic destination for investment,” he said.

With initiatives such as zero-tax incentives for family offices in Forest City, Ooi said Malaysia is positioning itself as an alternative wealth management hub to complement the likes of Singapore and Hong Kong.

“This momentum, combined with the country’s rich cultural heritage and affordable quality of life, makes Malaysia a compelling choice for individuals and businesses seeking long-term growth opportunities in Asia-Pacific,” he said.

Source: Bernama

Knight Frank: Malaysia among APAC’s leading lifestyle and investment hotspots

Johor has managed to secure investment potential worth more than US$190 million (RM850 million) through several prominent South Korean companies during a recent working visit, said Johor Investment, Trade, Consumer Affairs and Human Resources Committee chairman Lee Ting Han.

He said the investment potential was a result of a recent visit by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi and a state delegation to South Korea.

“The delegation held meetings with several prominent companies there, including Hanwha Solutions Corporation, SPC Group, LG Chems and CJ CheilJedang Group. These companies have shown interest in investing in sectors such as clean energy, chemicals and the halal food industry.

“For example, Hanwha Solutions Corporation is known for its innovation in clean energy and chemical sectors, while SPC Group is a global food company that leads the market with famous brands such as Paris Baguette,” he said at the Johor state legislative assembly session in Kota Iskandar here today.

Lee (BN-Paloh) was responding to a question by Amira Aisya Abd Aziz (Muda-Puteri Wangsa) regarding the outcome of a recent state working visit to South Korea and the estimated investment that will enter Johor.

Lee said that among the locations that will be the focus for several of the proposed investments are the Tanjung Langsat Industrial Complex and the Pengerang Petroleum Integrated Complex (PIPC).

He pointed out that the two locations are very strategic and includes infrastructure as well as support facilities for the chemical and petrochemical industries.

“Apart from that, other industrial areas that are focal locations are the Ibrahim Technopolis (IBTEC), Iskandar Halal Park, Eco Business Park, Nusajaya Tech Park, AME I Park and Senai Airport City which provide good basic infrastructure.

“The state government is confident that the results of this working visit will have a huge positive impact on Johor, not only in terms of economic growth but also through the development of sustainable strategic industries.

“With a more organised investment ecosystem, Johor will continue to remain one of the most competitive states in Malaysia and the region,” he said.

The Johor government engaged in meetings with several major South Korean companies, aiming to bring potential investments worth US$190 million into the state, during a four-day working visit to Seoul on October 28.

Onn Hafiz, who led the delegation, was reported saying that the potential investments would create high-income jobs and drive economic growth, benefiting the people of Johor.

Source: Malay Mail

Johor eyes RM850m boost with South Korean investment potential in clean energy, halal sectors, state assembly told

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s mission is to enhance ASEAN trade and investment, which he believes are currently insufficient, as Malaysia prepares to assume the ASEAN chairmanship in 2025.

To this end, Anwar said he would dedicate his efforts to zoom in on empowering the ASEAN Power Grid and push further for common digitalisation among regional economies.

He would also dedicate his efforts as chair of the regional grouping to bolster ties with ASEAN’s traditional allies comprising the economic giants of China, Japan and South Korea.

These initiatives would be his prime focus to make Southeast Asia a more vibrant economic region, the prime minister said in his special address at Seoul National University today.

Anwar said that such an approach was imperative as ASEAN happens to be the most peaceful and dynamic economic region in the world for which its economic potential should be fully realised.

Against such a backdrop, he said that it is timely that Malaysia is assuming the ASEAN chairmanship next year as it would be wellplaced to bolster regional trade and investments.

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the collaboration and the working relations between the 10 ASEAN leaders are also excellent, something which is advantageous to making collective decisions and taking commercial linkages to a significantly higher plane.

In working with China, Japan and South Korea, he said South Korea is an important traditional ally and that Seoul has done enormously well and is known to every single household.

Anwar highlighted that with more engagements with these three countries based on friendship and trust, the more ASEAN would be able to deal with more complex issues.

Noting that Malaysia is fortunate to host major international companies such as Oracle, AWS, Google, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Infineon, the country has become a hub for their business activities.

This has enabled Malaysia to establish itself as a regional centre for data and artificial intelligence (AI).

In addition, this is positioning Malaysia as a key hub for the global semiconductor sector.“Our advantages have got us to economically engage with all countries (such as) the United States, Europe, China, South Korea and Japan,” he said.

Source: Bernama

PM Anwar’s mission to boost ASEAN trade and investment as chair of ASEAN