KUALA LUMPUR, February 25, 2025 — Malaysia achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by securing RM378.5 billion in approved investments, marking the highest annual total in the nation's history. This 14.9% year-on-year increase underscores the country's appeal as a prime destination for both domestic and foreign investors.Â
Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz highlighted that over 207,000 job opportunities are expected to arise from these investments, spanning 6,700 projects across manufacturing, services, and primary sectors. Notably, domestic investments accounted for RM208.1 billion (55%), reflecting strong local business confidence, while foreign investments contributed RM170.4 billion (45%), led by the United States, Germany, China, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
The services sector attracted the majority of investments at RM252.7 billion (66.8%), followed by manufacturing at RM120.5 billion (31.8%), and the primary sector at RM5.3 billion (1.4%). Significant contributions came from the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector, which secured RM85.8 billion, with 86% directed toward semiconductor projects. This aligns with Malaysia's National Semiconductor Strategy, aiming for RM500 billion in investments to position the country as a global hub for chip design and wafer fabrication.
The digital economy also saw substantial growth, with the Digital Investment Office securing RM133.3 billion in digital investments, surpassing the 2025 target of RM130 billion. Additionally, renewable energy projects are gaining momentum, including an RM250 billion solar farm initiative in Johor, supporting Malaysia's commitment to sustainable development.
Minister Tengku Zafrul emphasized that Malaysia's business-friendly policies and stable economic environment continue to attract investors. The government remains focused on swiftly implementing investment projects to create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Currently, 1,049 high-potential projects worth RM58.8 billion are under evaluation, with another RM63.5 billion in active negotiations.
Looking ahead, Malaysia is concentrating on regional trade and investment growth, including participation in the ASEAN-Nomura Investment Forum Asia (NIFA) framework, which could add US$2 trillion (RM8.84 trillion) to the digital economy by 2030.
