CYBERJAYA: Malaysia has the upper hand now in doing business and attracting foreign investment as all eyes are focused on the country’s efficiency after a successful Asean Summit, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said Malaysia’s success in hosting the summit, particularly in security and management, has earned praise from world leaders, including US President Donald Trump.
Anwar said Trump personally expressed his admiration for Malaysia’s efficiency and professionalism, and even requested to meet Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Mohd Khalid Ismail to convey his appreciation.
“Our entire team, especially the police, demonstrated an impressive level of professionalism and security management throughout the visits of President Trump and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. They were genuinely impressed by our efficiency,” Anwar said at the launch of the Malaysia Semiconductor IC Design Park 2.
With the global recognition, the Prime Minister called on Malaysians to upskill and work fast to execute business opportunities coming their way.
“Malaysia and Asean will only succeed if we increase our trade and investments beyond us. We also need to strengthen our networking with countries like the United States as they have strength (in trade).
“Our exports to the United States are high, accounting for 20% of their semiconductor imports, worth about RM200bil. This involves thousands of supply chains and supports thousands of jobs.
“We also work with China as their advancements are miraculous. I am good with everyone as this is for the good of the nation, and we are a trading nation open to everyone,” he added.
The Prime Minister said semiconductor projects must be complemented with research centres, the best infrastructure and the most skilled of workers.
“We should provide incentives to make Malaysia the top investment destination but to protect the nation’s interests, we should also provide a trained talent pool from local youth,” he said.
Meanwhile, Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari said the IC design park is crucial in developing Malaysia’s first locally designed chip.
“To strengthen our efforts in empowering the semiconductor industry, the state government through GLCs has collaborated with Artem Venture Fund to establish the Selangor Semiconductor Fund (Ehsan Capital).
“This fund targets over RM100mil in capital and will commence operations this month, focusing its investments on at least seven high-potential local startups in semiconductor design and technology.
“This is a long-term commitment by the state government to nurture local experts in research, development and chip design technology. This ensures that Malaysia becomes not only a technology user but also a creator of innovation in this region.”
