GEORGE TOWN: Penang has recorded strong economic momentum in the last year, with total trade rising 17.9% year-on-year to RM956.37bil.
Imports stood at RM382.46bil in 2025 while exports reached RM573.91bil, or 35.7% of Malaysia’s total exports.
This has reinforced the state’s position as a key export hub, said the Yang di-Pertua Negri Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, who cited data from the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation.
“Penang’s economic performance reflects the strength of its industrial ecosystem and policy direction, which continue to attract high-value investments.
“This demonstrates the resilience of the state’s economy and investors’ confidence in its long-term prospects as a leading regional hub for high-technology and advanced manufacturing,” he said when opening the first meeting of the fourth session of the 15th Penang State Legislative Assembly yesterday.
The meeting will run from Monday to Friday.
Ramli said that, according to Malaysian Investment Development Authority statistics, Penang recorded approved investments of RM63.96bil last year.
He said the manufacturing sector contributed RM22.38bil, driven by the electrical and electronics industry.
The services sector accounted for a larger share at RM41.22bil, with the information and communications technology subsector emerging as a key contributor.
Of the total approved investments, domestic investments stood at RM38.85bil, while foreign investments amounted to RM25.10bil.
On the prolonged geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, Ramli said this has triggered ripple effects on global market stability, especially in the energy sector and supply chains.
Penang, he said, must take proactive steps to strengthen its resilience amid global economic uncertainty, with emphasis on energy efficiency, food security and disciplined fiscal management.
He added that Malaysia, as an open economy, is not spared from these developments due to its significant reliance on the affected regions.
Ramli, however, said the national economic fundamentals remain strong, supported by the positive measures and policies implemented by the Federal Government.
“I am confident that the Federal Government will continue to monitor these developments and take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare of the people is safeguarded, essential supplies are secured and economic growth is sustained,” he said.
