Malaysia announced a record RM426.7 billion (US$108 billion) in approved investments for 2025, an 11% surge over the previous year. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that domestic investments reached RM219.6 billion, while foreign investments saw a 20% increase to RM207.1 billion. The approved projects, totaling 8,390, are expected to create nearly 245,000 jobs.
Malaysia is increasingly attracting global tech firms, positioning itself as a regional data center hub. Deputy Trade Minister Sim Tze Tzin indicated continued strong investment interest, with RM29.1 billion in proposed investments already in the pipeline for 2026.
Malaysia also stands to benefit from geopolitical instability, with ASEAN presenting itself as a stable, neutral region for investment. Trade Minister Johari Abdul Ghani is scheduled to discuss a tariff agreement with a U.S. trade official.