Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Malaysia's Free Industrial Zones achieved RM106.7 billion in exports during the first half of 2026, continuing a strong growth trajectory. Full-year 2025 saw FIZ exports reach RM188.3 billion, up 9.3 per cent year-on-year, reflecting the zones' critical role in the nation's trade performance.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for Penang to become a top performer in Bumiputera economic participation, announcing RM5 million for a semiconductor action plan and urging better coordination among development agencies.
Penang has engaged PricewaterhouseCoopers to develop a comprehensive white paper and strategic blueprint for a proposed international financial centre, leveraging the state's electronics sector strengths.