The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the principal investment promotion agency of the Malaysian government has announced that Malaysia secured MYR 89.8 billion (USD 19.1 billion) in approved investments in the first quarter of 2025, a 3.7% year-on-year increase despite ongoing global economic headwinds. These investments span 1,556 projects across manufacturing, services, and primary sectors, and are expected to create over 33,300 new jobs.
Foreign direct investment accounted for the majority (67.3%) at MYR 60.4 billion (USD 12.9 billion), with Singapore, the United States, China, the British Virgin Islands, and Taiwan emerging as the top sources of investment. Johor led among states in attracting investments, followed by Kuala Lumpur, Sabah, Selangor, and Penang. The services sector saw particularly strong growth, with MYR 57.8 billion (USD 12.3 billion) in approved investments, up 39.5% year-on-year. This included major activity in digital infrastructure, tourism, logistics, and notably, data centers and cloud computing under the information and communications subsector. Foreign investment in the services sector surged over 300% to MYR 34.5 billion (USD 7.3 billion).
Meanwhile, the manufacturing sector drew MYR 30.5 billion (USD 6.5 billion) in approved investments, with foreign sources contributing nearly 84%. The sector continues to shift toward higher-value, skilled roles. Industries leading the way include basic metal products, electrical and electronics, and chemicals, with notable new commitments from global players like TF AMD and Londian Wason Copper Foil. The primary sector also maintained a steady performance with MYR 1.5 billion (USD 319 million) in investments, mostly in mining. Looking ahead, MIDA is managing an active pipeline of proposed projects worth MYR 48.5 billion (USD 10.3 billion) and pursuing high-potential leads totaling MYR 59.3 billion (USD 12.6 billion).
(Sources: Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA); Business Today)
