About

Tengku Zafrul Aziz

Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz currently serves as Chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia. Prior to these appointments, he served as Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry (MITI) from December 2022 to December 2025, and Minister of Finance (MOF) from March 2020 to October 2022, following more than 22 years of experience in banking and financial services.

As Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry, he played a pivotal role in strengthening Malaysia’s industrial competitiveness, expanding trade, and attracting high-quality investments. He spearheaded key national initiatives including the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Semiconductor Strategy, the Chemical Industry Roadmap, the ESG Industry Framework, the Green Investment Strategy, and the Circular Economy Policy Framework. During his tenure, Malaysia achieved a record RM426.7 billion in approved investments in 2025, while total trade surpassed RM3 trillion for the first time in the nation’s history. Malaysia also climbed 11 positions to rank 23rd in the World Competitiveness Ranking 2025.

Recognition In Focus

TAB Global William "Bill" Seidman Lifetime Achievement Award 2026

Recognising a lifetime of leadership, institutional transformation and contributions to Malaysia's economic resilience and development.

Honoured for distinguished leadership across financial services, public policy and national economic transformation.

DOCUMENTARY FEATURE

Leadership moments, institutional dialogue and award recognition in a cinematic editorial frame.

Tengku Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Aziz has received international recognition for his leadership in driving Malaysia’s economic transformation, strengthening investor confidence, and fostering regional collaboration. His contributions across finance, trade and investment have positioned him as a prominent voice in advancing sustainable growth, economic resilience and global partnerships, reflecting a leadership approach that balances innovation, diplomacy and long-term national development.

Speeches

At the Youth Economic Forum 2026, Tengku Zafrul Aziz urged young Malaysians to shape the nation’s future...

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DATA CENTRE NEXUS 2026

14 September 2026

At Data Centre Nexus 2026, MIDA Chairman Tengku Zafrul Aziz said Malaysia’s RM385.7 billion in data-centre-related investment...

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Malaysia views the green transition as a strategy for economic growth, resilience and competitiveness, rather than merely...

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Tengku Zafrul’s closing remarks at the Bloomberg Business Summit @ ASEAN 2025 highlighted ASEAN’s role in shaping...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI),...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, closed...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI),...

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DHL GOTRADE SUMMIT 2025

21 October 2025

YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI),...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI),...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to the Johor–Singapore Special...

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ASEAN SME ECONOMIC CONFERENCE

09 October 2025

YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Aziz underscored SMEs as the backbone of Malaysia’s and ASEAN’s...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz emphasised the crucial role of women as...

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YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz highlighted Selangor’s vital role in driving Malaysia’s...

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Tengku Zafrul Aziz stressed that in an era of global complexity, Malaysia’s strategy rests on industrial reform,...

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Tengku Zafrul Aziz highlighted global supply chain challenges and urged Malaysia to adapt through diversification, smart logistics,...

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Tengku Zafrul Aziz opened the ASEAN Policymakers Conference on Steel and ASEAN Iron and Steel Forum 2025,...

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Tengku Zafrul Aziz launched CIMB Artober 2025, praising its role in strengthening Malaysia’s art ecosystem, empowering young...

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GALA DINNER FOR 57TH AEM DELEGATES

24 September 2025

Tengku Zafrul Aziz welcomed delegates to the 57th AEM Gala Dinner, highlighting Malaysia’s theme of sustainability and...

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Tengku Zafrul Aziz opened GHaS and MIHAS 2025 by highlighting Malaysia’s role as a global halal leader....

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At AMCC’s 15th AGM, YB Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul reaffirmed Malaysia’s deep historical and cultural ties...

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WEATHERING THE ECONOMIC STORM

A Journey Through The Uncharted Waters of COVID-19

This book is a collection of policy insights, articles and speeches by Tengku Zafrul Aziz, who was appointed as Malaysia’s Minister of Finance on March 10, 2020, just as COVID-19 began to hit the nation. It provides a glimpse into the inner workings of the Ministry of Finance (MOF), particularly in meeting the nation’s demanding fiscal needs, while also contributing to the difficult but ultimately successful fight against COVID-19 and managing the battered economy during the last two-and-a-half years. Read More

Latest from Newsroom

20 February 2025

STREAMLINING INVESTMENT PROCESSES FOR JS-SEZ

The opening of the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J) marks a key step in streamlining investment processes for the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ). Led by MIDA, IRDA, and Invest Johor, the centre simplifies procedures, reduces bureaucracy, and attracts high-impact investments. Minister Tengku Zafrul highlighted its role in facilitating project implementation, reinforcing Johor as a premier investment destination.

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18 February 2025

M’SIA WELCOMES FDI FROM ALL COUNTRIES: TENGKU ZAFRUL

Malaysia will continue to support and attract foreign direct investments (FDI) from all countries, says MITI Minister Tengku Zafrul. He emphasised the country's commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and maintaining an open economy. Malaysia welcomes investments that align with its economic goals, ensuring sustainable growth and job creation.

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18 February 2025

MALAYSIA ABLE TO DRIVE ASEAN-CHINA SYNERGIES

Malaysia can drive Asean-China synergies to achieve the Asian Century, says MITI Minister Tengku Zafrul. He emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening connectivity with Hong Kong, Greater China, and North Asia. He noted that Asean’s vast market and Hong Kong’s role as China’s gateway offer significant opportunities. He added that Hong Kong could be Asean’s gateway to China, while Malaysia could...

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17 February 2025

NATION’S ECONOMIC GROWTH HIGHLIGHTED AT MITI EVENT

MITI hosted its annual Chinese New Year reception, where Minister Tengku Zafrul highlighted Malaysia’s economic growth and future plans. Approved investments in 2024 reached RM254.7 billion, creating 160,000 jobs. Malaysia’s total trade hit RM2.9 trillion, with a RM136.88 billion surplus. MITI aims to sustain growth through NIMP 2030, ESG policies, and ASEAN leadership in 2025. Tengku Zafrul emphasised inclusivity, sustainability,...

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10 February 2025

WEATHERING EMERGING HEADWINDS ON THE SEMICONDUCTOR LANDSCAPE

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry faces challenges from US-China tensions, AI chip export restrictions, and geopolitical shifts. Minister Tengku Zafrul emphasises the National Semiconductor Strategy’s (NSS) resilience, focusing on R&D, diversification, and strategic partnerships. Economist Samirul Ariff warns Malaysia must pivot quickly to avoid stagnation. Strengthening alliances with Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN is key to maintaining competitiveness in the evolving global...

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10 February 2025

MALAYSIA POSITIVE ABOUT TRADE GROWTH IN 2025, TO MAINTAIN LEVELS ABOVE RM2T

Malaysia aims to sustain trade levels above RM2 trillion in 2025, driven by economic growth despite global uncertainties, says Minister Tengku Zafrul. Total trade in 2024 hit a record RM2.879 trillion, marking four consecutive years above RM2 trillion. Speaking at Golf KITA 2025, a fundraising event attended by the Sultan of Pahang, Zafrul highlighted the initiative’s role in supporting underprivileged...

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7 February 2025

MINIMAL IMPACT ON SEMICONDUCTOR EXPORTS AS M’SIA EXCLUDED FROM TRUMP’S TARIFF INCREASE, SAYS ZAFRUL

Malaysia's semiconductor exports to the US face minimal impact from Trump's tariff hikes, as Malaysia is excluded, says Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul. US investments remain strong, with RM5.1 billion in Q3 2024. Malaysia and the US signed a 2022 memorandum on semiconductor supply chain resilience. The government aims to maintain strong trade ties, ensuring Malaysia remains a...

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1 February 2025

M’SIA TO FACILITATE ECON AGREEMENTS FOR E TIMOR

Malaysia, as Asean chair, will support Timor-Leste’s accession to Asean Economic Agreements, ensuring necessary processes are completed while providing capacity-building assistance. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul emphasised Malaysia’s commitment to regional economic growth through diplomatic and trade support. Speaking at the Weststar-GAP and Santos Australia agreement signing, he highlighted the partnership as a model for inclusive and sustainable...

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28 January 2025

MALAYSIA TO POSITION ASEAN AS GLOBAL TRADE HUB

Under Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, the region aims to become a global trade hub by enhancing economic integration and supply chain resilience. In 2023, Malaysia’s trade with ASEAN grew 6.1% to RM765 billion, with exports rising 4.2% and imports 8.9%. Key markets include Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. Malaysia is also expanding trade with Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America while...

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28 January 2025

M’SIA EYES TRADE GROWTH WITH FTA PARTNERS, EMERGING MARKETS THIS YEAR

Malaysia aims to boost trade by focusing on FTA partners and emerging markets like Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. MITI is intensifying outreach to second-tier cities in China and Indonesia, while Matrade pursues opportunities with non-traditional markets. Key trade agreements like CEPA with the UAE and CPTPP enhance market access. In 2024, Malaysia’s trade hit RM2.88 trillion, and...

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28 January 2025

MALAYSIA OUTLINES STRATEGY TO ENHANCE TRADE PERFORMANCE

Malaysia aims to boost exports in 2025 by strengthening cooperation with FTA partners and expanding into emerging markets such as Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America. In 2024, trade hit a record RM2.88 trillion, with exports growing 5.7%. Matrade will leverage FTAs like CPTPP and RCEP for market access. As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia seeks to enhance regional trade and...

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27 January 2025

MACROECONOMIC OUTLOOK MALAYSIA TO PLAY A CATALYTIC ROLE

Favourable demographics, a growing middle class, shifting global trade flows towards the region, abundant natural resources, and appealing tourism destinations are anticipated to fuel ASEAN's future growth. However, challenges like uneven development across member nations and trade barriers remain. Despite these obstacles, there is optimism that ASEAN can harness these opportunities to drive progress.

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20 January 2025

TENGKU ZAFRUL: EXPECT INCREASE IN INVESTMENT, TRADE WITH UK VIA CPTPP

Malaysia anticipates increased trade and investment with the UK through the CPTPP, marking their first free trade agreement. Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Zafrul highlighted the CPTPP as a key step for improved market access and bilateral ties. During PM Anwar Ibrahim's UK visit, RM11 billion in potential investments were secured, including RM5 billion for data centres. Discussions also...

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16 January 2025

M’SIA-UAE CEPA SET TO BOOST BILATERAL TRADE BY 60PCT – TENGKU ZAFRUL

The Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MY-UAE CEPA), signed on 14 January 2025, aims to boost bilateral trade by 60% in five years and strengthen economic cooperation. It marks Malaysia’s first FTA with a West Asian country, positioning it as a trade hub and gateway to ASEAN. Key sectors for collaboration include renewable energy, AI, and semiconductors. UAE investors have...

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16 January 2025

MY-UAE CEPA WILL FOCUS ON DEVELOPING THE ISLAMIC ECONOMY

The Malaysia-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MY-UAE CEPA), signed on 14 January 2025, will focus on boosting bilateral trade by 60% in five years and developing the Islamic economy. Malaysia's first FTA with a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nation, it includes green and digital economy priorities alongside semiconductors, AI, and renewable energy. The deal sets the stage for wider GCC...

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15 January 2025

UAE DEAL TO BOOST BILATERAL TRADE BY 60PC

The Malaysia-United Arab Emirates Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (MY-UAE CEPA), finalised in just 11 months, is set to boost bilateral trade by at least 60% over five years. As Malaysia’s fastest-negotiated free trade agreement and its first with a Gulf Cooperation Council member, the deal will enhance market access and economic ties. It aims to position Malaysia as a trade...

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15 January 2025

ZAFRUL: ADIA TO PLAY CRUCIAL ROLE IN MAHB TRANSFORMATION

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), one of the world’s largest wealth funds, will play a key role in the privatisation and transformation of Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd (MAHB), according to Malaysia’s Investment, Trade and Industry Minister, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. ADIA, alongside Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), is part of the Gateway Development Alliance (GDA) consortium aiming to modernise...

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10 December 2024

ZAFRUL ADVOCATED FOR CENTRALITY

Asean countries must play the role of middle powers to seize investment opportunities amid geopolitical shifts, said Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. He emphasised the importance of maintaining Asean centrality to address industry concerns and position the region as a neutral yet influential global player.

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10 December 2024

MALAYSIA, AS ASEAN CHAIR, TO FOCUS ON EQUITABLE SHARING OF ECONOMIC BENEFITS

Malaysia's upcoming Asean chairmanship in 2025 will focus on inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The country aims to ensure that the benefits of regional integration reach all segments of society, including women, youth, and MSMEs. Key priorities include upgrading free trade agreements, fostering sustainable investments, and promoting digitalization. Malaysia will also support initiatives to empower women entrepreneurs and MSMEs, ensuring...

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10 December 2024

WOMEN, YOUTH AND MSMES MUST BENEFIT FROM ASEAN CHAIRMANSHIP

Malaysia's upcoming Asean chairmanship aims to benefit women, youth and MSMEs. The government is launching initiatives to empower women entrepreneurs and connect them to regional networks. The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives will focus on green transition for MSMEs, while the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry will support this through its i-ESG Framework. These initiatives aim to ensure...

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Articles

THE REAL ‘MERDEKA’: CHOOSING UNITY OVER FEAR-DRIVEN POLITICS

29 August 2026

Malaysia must move beyond fear-driven identity politics and focus on building a stronger, more confident future. Priorities...

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WE HAVE RAISED THE ‘CEILING’, NOW WE MUST RAISE THE FLOOR

27 July 2026

Malaysia’s strong GDP growth in 2026 reflects successful efforts to raise the country’s economic “ceiling” through investment,...

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100 DAYS OF GLOBAL ENERGY CRISIS: WHY DISCIPLINE AND UNITY ARE OUR STRONGEST...

13 June 2026

  Tengku Zafrul Aziz argues that the global energy crisis is no longer temporary but a long-term...

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A DISTANT CONFLICT ROCKS ASEAN

04 April 2026

Tengku Zafrul Aziz explains how the US-Israel airstrikes on Iran and the disruption of the Strait of...

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CAN MALAYSIAN POLITICS UNITE THE COUNTRY WHEN THE WORLD IS COMING APART?

14 March 2026

Tengku Zafrul Aziz stresses that amid global uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and economic fragmentation, Malaysia’s greatest strength lies...

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LESSONS FROM 2025, CHOICES FOR 2026

03 January 2026

Tengku Zafrul Aziz reflects on Malaysia’s economic challenges and progress during his years in government, highlighting the...

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CRITIQUE DEMANDS A VOICE, EXECUTION DEMANDS A VISION, COURAGE AND THE SCARS OF...

03 November 2025

Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN chairmanship was marked by historic success, including Timor-Leste’s accession, key trade upgrades, and the...

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TO OUR YOUTH: A NOTE ON THE FUTURE ASEAN

27 September 2025

Tengku Zafrul Aziz reflected on Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN’s economic pillar, stressing its role in shaping jobs,...

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POSITIONING MALAYSIA AS A LEADER

21 June 2025

Malaysia’s leap from 34th to 23rd in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking reflects the success of...

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LEAPING AHEAD TO LEAD WITH CONVICTION

21 June 2025

Malaysia’s 11-spot rise to 23rd in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking highlights the success of Madani-led...

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FORGING A BRAVE NEW WORLD

31 May 2025

The inaugural ASEAN-GCC-China Summit in Kuala Lumpur is seen as a historic milestone, signalling deeper trilateral cooperation...

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CAN MALAYSIA SURVIVE IN THE NEW GLOBAL ‘DISORDER’?

26 May 2025

The world is now facing a "new global disorder": an era of geopolitical and economic uncertainty that...

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CAN JS-SEZ BRIDGE SUPPLY CHAIN BARRIERS AMIDST GLOBAL TARIFF STORM?

26 April 2025

Following productive engagements in Washington and the successful JS-SEZ Forum in Johor Baru, Malaysia reaffirms its commitment...

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MALAYSIA, ASEAN AND THE TARIFF STORM: NOTHING TO FEAR BUT FEAR ITSELF

08 March 2025

Malaysia's record RM378.5 billion in approved investments for 2024 signals strong economic momentum, backed by the New...

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CAN MALAYSIA CATALYSE ASEAN’S FOUR REINVENTION?

08 February 2025

The article discusses ASEAN's evolution since its founding in 1967, with key reinventions in 1976, the 1990s,...

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2025: TO BE OR NOT TO BE?

04 January 2025

Malaysia has made significant progress since the Madani government took office in December 2022, attracting RM448 billion...

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WHY ASEAN’S NEUTRALITY IS OUR GREATEST ASSET IN AN INCREASINGLY DIVIDED WORLD

15 December 2024

Tengku Zafrul Aziz emphasises ASEAN's growing relevance as Malaysia prepares to chair the bloc in 2025. With...

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ASEAN 2025: WHAT’S IN IT FOR MALAYSIA?

09 December 2024

In 2025, Malaysia will chair ASEAN, marking a pivotal moment for the region and celebrating the ASEAN...

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FROM APEC TO ASEAN: MALAYSIA’S STRATEGIC POSITION IN SHAPING REGIONAL ECONOMIC COLLABORATION

16 November 2024

November has been busy for Malaysia’s Prime Minister, marked by international engagements, including CIIE, Apec in Peru,...

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BUILDING ENDURANCE FOR ‘MARATHON’ OF DEVELOPING MALAYSIA’S ECONOMY

12 October 2024

Malaysia's economic growth is progressing like a marathon, with the World Bank raising 2024 growth projections to...

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