Malaysia Must Act As A Unified Business Ecosystem To Drive Growth - DPM Ahmad Zahid

KUALA LUMPUR, April 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysia must urgently function as an integrated national business ecosystem to ensure economic growth is driven comprehensively and effectively, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.

He said the government and industry cannot operate in isolation, but must work in tandem, particularly in navigating global uncertainties and the current global supply crisis.

Ahmad Zahid said the relationship between the government and the business community, including the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), represents a strategic partnership that will shape the future direction of Malaysia’s economy.

“The government and industry cannot stand alone. We must move as a national ecosystem that complements, strengthens and drives growth together. The strength of a nation depends on the ability of all parties to move collectively.

“The government formulates policies, but industry brings implementation to life. The government sets the direction, while the business community drives economic activity on the ground,” he said at the Government Appreciation Dinner with the business community today.

Also present was ACCCIM president Datuk Ng Yih Pyng.

Ahmad Zahid reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring Malaysia remains an efficient, transparent and responsive business destination.

Among the measures being intensified are expediting approval processes, reducing bureaucratic red tape, expanding digitalisation in public service delivery, and ensuring government agencies serve as effective facilitators for businesses.

He said even the best policies can fail if implementation is slow, as investors evaluate not only incentives, but also the speed of decision-making and a country’s ability to resolve issues efficiently.

“We want Malaysia to be a destination of choice, not by default, but by confidence. Investors do not go where incentives are highest, they go where confidence is strongest.

“The foundation of our economic and business ecosystem is strong and well-defined, ensuring that every investor who comes to Malaysia feels confident, is treated professionally, and can grow in a stable and competitive environment,” he said.

Despite ongoing global uncertainties, including supply chain disruptions and volatile energy prices, the deputy prime minister said Malaysia remains on a strong economic footing.

He said the country’s trade has surpassed the RM1 trillion mark, economic growth remains steady, and inflation continues to be well-managed.

“This momentum continued into the first quarter of 2026, with Malaysia’s total trade rising 10.4 per cent to RM789.85 billion compared with the same period last year.

“Exports grew by 12.7 per cent to RM426.53 billion...among the highest quarterly performances ever recorded, while imports increased by 7.7 per cent to RM363.31 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of RM63.22 billion,” he said.

However, Ahmad Zahid acknowledged the very real challenges faced by businesses, particularly the impact of fluctuating global energy prices, including oil, which have directly increased operating costs.

“The government cannot afford to merely observe market developments. We must play a more active and responsible role to ensure the economy remains resilient and stable,” he said.

-- BERNAMA