In the mountains: Fahmi (right) speaking to members of the Malaysian diaspora at Rumah Malaysia in Geneva, Switzerland. — Bernama
GENEVA: Clear and consistent government policies, backed by political stability, are among the key factors drawing foreign investors to Malaysia, says Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Speaking at a gathering with the Malaysian diaspora on Sunday, Fahmi cited the Madani Economy framework, the 12th Malaysia Plan, the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap as examples of coherent policies.
“These policies provide clarity and assurance to investors. They trust that such policies won’t be changed arbitrarily.”
He referred to recent data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia and the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry as proof that Malaysia continues to be a preferred destination for foreign direct investment.
According to the Malaysian Investment Development Authority, approved investments for the first quarter of 2025 totalled RM89.8bil, a 3.7% year-on-year increase, despite global economic headwinds.
The gathering, held at Rumah Malaysia here, was attended by around 50 Malaysians, including students, professionals and staff from the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to the United Nations.
Also present was Malaysia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, Datuk Nadzirah Osman.
During the event, Fahmi also highlighted Malaysia’s progress in the communications sector.
“Malaysia is among the top 10 countries in the world with the cheapest Internet, and we have the second fastest Internet speed in the Asia-Pacific region after South Korea,” he said, Bernama reported.
“This programme allows Malaysians in Geneva to share views with the minister and receive first-hand updates on current developments back home,” Nadzirah said.
Syakira Ramli, Malaysian Association of Geneva president, said various topics were discussed during the event, including areas where Malaysia could improve by learning from Switzerland.
For Malvyn Tan, the International Air Transport Association head of commercial fuel, the gathering provided an opportunity for the Malaysian diaspora to share feedback and express their views.
“I think Fahmi is very open and receptive, and this made us very comfortable to share our experiences while he shares the developments in Malaysia,” he said.
Fahmi is leading the Malaysian delegation to the World Summit on the Information Society+20 High-Level Event, from July 7 to 11, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen an inclusive national communications technology ecosystem aligned with Sustainable Development Goals.
