Malaysia is expected to sustain its strong trade momentum in the coming months after recording its best-ever trade performance for the first four months of 2026, supported by robust demand in the electrical and electronics (E&E) sector and the global artificial intelligence (AI) boom, according to Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin.
Speaking after the 53rd annual general meeting of the Malaysian International Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MICCI), Sim said Malaysia’s exports had remained resilient despite geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, Bernama reported.
“Malaysia has recorded the best ever trading numbers in its history in April. That shows that Malaysia’s trade and exports are very resilient. We registered double-digit growth with major trading countries in the world, including the United States, China, Taiwan and Japan.
“So this trajectory, we believe that it will go on for a few more months because we are riding the AI super cycle. The trading among E&E sectors is robust. Whether it will go up until the end of 2026 remains to be seen but I am cautiously optimistic,” he said.
Sim also attributed Malaysia’s success in attracting more than RM1 trillion in investments over the past three years to the country’s stability amid global geopolitical uncertainties and the continued efforts of agencies such as the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA).
He said the government was developing a centralised database of local vendors to help companies identify domestic suppliers and strengthen linkages within the economy.
“We want to gather the data of all companies in one centralised database so that when they are looking for partners, they can identify the right company.
“If we have a complete database, we can connect local companies more effectively. This helps reduce dependence on imports and ensures that more money remains in the Malaysian economy,” he said.
On Malaysia’s economic outlook, Sim said the country could achieve high-income status within two years if growth momentum is maintained and political stability preserved.
“We are capable of achieving that status but a lot of uncertainties remain. So we have to work hard, including the government, the private sector and the people. All Malaysian citizens must work hard in terms of productivity.
“Also, we need stable politics. If we have continuous chaos in politics, then we will have problems in terms of moving to high income nation. Political stability is very important. Too much is at stake. If we have disruptive politics, if we don’t have a stable government, if we keep changing the government, then we will be left behind,” he added.
