KUALA LUMPUR, 6 March 2026 (The Capital Post)— Malaysia recorded a historic high of RM426.7 billion in approved investments in 2025, marking an 11 per cent increase compared with RM384.4 billion achieved the previous year, reflecting sustained investor confidence despite global economic uncertainties.
According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the record investment figure was driven by 8,390 approved projects spanning the services, manufacturing and primary sectors, which are expected to generate about 244,902 new employment opportunities across the country.
Domestic investments accounted for RM219.6 billion, representing 51.5 per cent of the total, while foreign investments amounted to RM207.1 billion or 48.5 per cent. Foreign investment inflows increased by 20.9 per cent, reflecting strong international interest in Malaysia’s economic outlook.
Among the leading sources of foreign investment were Singapore and China, followed by the United States, Japan and Hong Kong. The diversified mix of investors highlights Malaysia’s continued attractiveness as a regional investment hub.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin said the strong balance between domestic and foreign investment demonstrates confidence from both Malaysian businesses and international investors in the country’s economic direction.
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Meanwhile, MIDA chairman Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz attributed the investment growth to consistent policies and reforms introduced in recent years, including the MADANI Economic Framework and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, which provide greater certainty for investors.
The services sector attracted the largest share of investments, amounting to RM281.3 billion, driven largely by digital-related projects such as artificial intelligence, data centres, big data and cloud computing initiatives.
Meanwhile, the manufacturing sector secured RM131.3 billion in approved investments across more than 1,300 projects, underscoring Malaysia’s continued competitiveness in advanced manufacturing and high-technology industries.
Officials said the surge in investments reflects Malaysia’s ability to convert investor confidence into real economic activity through new facilities, advanced technologies and job creation, strengthening the nation’s position as a resilient and competitive investment destination. .-The Capital Post