Malaysia Sees Approved Investments Surge 18.7% in H1 2025

Kuala Lumpur has reported a significant increase in approved investments during the first half of 2025, reaching 190.3 billion ringgit ($44.98 billion). This figure marks an 18.7 percent rise compared to the same period last year, according to data released by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) on Friday.

Investment Breakdown and Job Creation

The approved investments encompass 3,011 projects across various sectors, including manufacturing, services, and primary industries. These ventures are anticipated to create 89,294 new jobs, contributing to the country’s economic landscape.

Foreign investments played a crucial role, constituting 56.1 percent or 106.8 billion ringgit of the total. Domestic investments accounted for 43.9 percent with a contribution of 83.5 billion ringgit. Notably, foreign investments experienced a remarkable surge of 43.5 percent year-on-year, with Singapore emerging as the top source, investing 43.4 billion ringgit.

Sector Performance Highlights

The services sector has been a standout performer, attracting 118.6 billion ringgit in approved investments, reflecting a substantial 25.6 percent increase compared to the previous year. The manufacturing sector also showed strong growth, securing 68.4 billion ringgit, which represents a 13.8 percent increase year-on-year.

Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, expressed optimism about these figures, stating, “The 18.7 percent year-on-year growth in approved investments for the first half demonstrates foreign and domestic investors’ continued trust in our clear policies and long-term industrial reform agenda.”

He further emphasized that these investments contribute to Malaysia’s robust economic fundamentals, which have remained resilient despite challenges in the global environment.

The substantial growth in approved investments underscores Malaysia’s strategic position as an attractive destination for both foreign and domestic investors. As the country continues to strengthen its economic infrastructure, it aims to foster an environment conducive to further investment and job creation.