Malaysia Economy

Having undergone rapid development over the last half-century, Malaysia’s economy has progressed from relying on agricultural and primary commodities to being more broad-based and export-driven. Benefitting from long-term political stability, sound economic management and pragmatic leadership, the country possesses sound infrastructure, established health care and education systems, and an...

This chapter features useful information for visitors to Malaysia, including suggested hotels, contact information for government ministries, business associations, foreign missions and other important resources, and facts about language, visas, etiquette and other useful tips. It also includes a features piece navigating the use of titles in Malaysian society.

Sabah is a dynamic area for growth, new discoveries and investments. Sabah is one of the five regional development corridors and hosts a number of sectors that fall under the federal government’s National Key Economic Areas, such as oil palm and rubber, among others. Services accounted for 47.4% of the state’s 2012 GDP, followed by agriculture with 20.8%; mining and quarrying, 20.7%;...

Malaysia is supported by abundant natural resources, in particular offshore oil and gas, and foreign investment-friendly policies have nurtured a globally competitive electrical and electronics industry, while a strong banking system has financed rapid growth in consumer sectors and construction. The country has much reason for optimism through its successful transition to the top-tier in the...

Already one of the most trade-oriented economies in the world and an established regional leader in attracting foreign investment, Malaysia now aims to compete with Singapore as an alternative regional trade and investment hub for rapidly developing ASEAN. Although it boasts a liberal investment environment, foreign investment is restricted in certain sectors, especially retail, banking,...