Malaysia Domestic Trade Activity Remains Robust Amid Geopolitical Uncertainties - KPDN
KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s domestic trade activity remains resilient and continues to expand amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, according to the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN).
Its Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh, said the government remains committed to ensuring that the rakyat continue to be supported and that the country's trade ecosystem remains sustainable.
"Through regulatory and control-system improvements, KPDN aims to reduce bureaucracy so that entrepreneurs can concentrate on growth rather than being burdened by administrative red tape.
"We continuously monitor the integrity of domestic supply chains. When supply chains are stable, the risk of business disruption can be reduced, thereby giving confidence to investors and industry players to continue expanding," she said in her keynote address at the launch of 7 Mega Growth Strategies 2026, here today.
According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, sales value in the distribution trade sector, comprising wholesale, retail and motor vehicles, reached RM169 billion in March 2026, up 9.8 per cent compared with the same period last year.
Data from the KPDN’s Unit of Statistics and Economic Analysis within the Policy, Strategic Planning, and International Division indicate a strong increase in sales value for wholesale and retail trade in the first quarter of 2026 (1Q 2026), rising by 7.5 per cent compared to 4.6 per cent in 1Q 2025.
Fuziah said that in this increasingly complex global economic situation, businesses need to be more strategic in charting their direction and business development.
She noted that companies must continue to build their brands, strengthen market positions, and increase customer trust.
"Visibility, credibility, and strategic positioning are now crucial factors influencing a business's success," said Fuziah.
The 7 Mega Growth Strategies 2026 programme, organised by KNKV Group Sdn Bhd, gathered corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, industry players, diplomatic representatives, members of the media, as well as local and international business communities to discuss business growth strategies and strengthen entrepreneurial resilience amid current global economic uncertainties.
KNKV Group chairman Datuk Seri Dr Zurainah Musa said the 7 Mega Growth Strategies 2026 programme brings together experts from different industries and sectors to encourage meaningful conversation, knowledge sharing, and cross-border collaboration that can create long-term value.
"I believe the sharing sessions today will provide valuable insights into strategic visibility, business positioning, legal preparedness, and growth sustainability.
"We hope that this platform will open doors for greater international collaboration, trade opportunities, and strategic partnerships between Malaysia and the global business community," said Zurainah.
-- BERNAMA