Clear Economic Policies, Strategic Infrastructure Projects Reaffirm Malaysia's Position As Regional Hub - PM Anwar

From Voon Miaw Ping

BEIJING, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said clear economic policies and strategic infrastructure projects have reaffirmed Malaysia’s position as a key hub for business and investment in the region.

Anwar said at the Malaysia-China High Level Business Dialogue here today that the country's stable environment has created confidence among international investors, particularly Chinese conglomerates.

Close relations between Kuala Lumpur and Beijing is also a factor for making Malaysia an investment destination for Chinese companies, said the Prime Minister.

“Malaysia is particularly very stable. But what is also important, we have very clear economic policies.

“We always explain that we will facilitate business, these priorities are well established,” he said during his engagement with the 120 leaders from Chinese companies and conglomerates at the dialogue. 

Anwar, who is also Finance Minister, said the government is ready to facilitate their expansion in the country. 

He said Malaysia has established comprehensive strategies in critical growth sectors, including a semiconductor development plan, an artificial intelligence (AI) roadmap and an industrial master plan.

On energy transition, Anwar highlighted the ongoing initiatives to develop the ASEAN Power Grid, linking Vietnam, Singapore, Sarawak and Sabah to strengthen the region’s renewable energy network. 

He stressed that clean and alternative energy will remain central to Malaysia’s economic policy.

On connectivity, the Prime Minister said the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) will spur regional connectivity, positioning it as a key driver for future growth.

The rail system which connects urban, suburban and rural areas, create ecosystems for new industries and communities. 

“Because of its success, we have now agreed and I will be discussing with both President (Xi Jinping) and Premier (Li Qiang) to extend that further to the Thai border,” he said. 

Anwar said Malaysia’s strong ties with China which is now at the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership level will continue to drive investment, trade and workforce development, benefitting both economies.

Meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Prime Minister said the meeting was a platform to gain insights and share aspirations and visions related to economic and business matters, thereby opening up space and opportunities for potential investments in Malaysia.

“In this space, I also emphasise the MADANI Government’s clear policies, through policy documents related to energy transition, semiconductors and industrialisation.

“The MADANI Government will certainly continue to strive to make the business ecosystem in Malaysia more competitive and attractive, thereby enhancing Malaysia’s reputation as a preferred investment destination,” he said.

-- BERNAMA