KUALA LUMPUR, June 2025 — After a cautious few years, Malaysia’s M&A landscape is bouncing back, with deal value hitting RM48 billion in the first half of 2025 — a 20% increase compared to H1 2024.
The energy, technology, and retail sectors are driving this resurgence as companies consolidate for scale and investors look for growth amid regional market shifts.
⚡ Energy Deals Fuel Transition
One of the largest transactions this year is Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) acquiring a 40% stake in a Johor-based solar farm operator for RM1.5 billion — accelerating Malaysia’s renewable energy goals.
Meanwhile, Petronas Ventures has increased investments in green hydrogen startups across Southeast Asia, partnering with local tech firms on carbon capture solutions.
💻 Tech & Startup Consolidation
Malaysia’s vibrant startup scene is also seeing strategic M&A moves:
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Aerodyne Group, the drone tech leader, acquired a Thai competitor to expand its ASEAN footprint.
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PolicyStreet, the insurtech player, merged with a regional peer to create one of Asia’s largest digital insurance brokers.
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Private equity firms like Creador and NAVIS Capital are backing roll-ups of SaaS companies to build regional tech champions.
🛒 Retail Consolidation Gains Pace
In retail, homegrown brands are scaling up through strategic partnerships and buyouts:
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MR DIY announced its acquisition of a local homeware chain to expand into tier-two cities.
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Lotus’s Malaysia (formerly Tesco) is exploring alliances with specialty grocers to tap into premium food segments.
🗣️ What Industry Experts Say
PwC Malaysia’s latest M&A Outlook Report highlights:
“Buyers are focusing on ESG-ready assets, digital capabilities, and regional scalability. Expect more cross-border deals, especially within ASEAN.”
📈 2025 M&A Outlook
✅ Energy Transition: More green energy and carbon solutions M&A ahead
✅ Tech & Digital: Startups will see more PE-driven consolidation
✅ Consumer & Retail: Regional brand expansion into Indonesia and Vietnam
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