Malaysia reports RM218.5 billion in investment approvals for first half of 2026
MIDA chairman Tengku Zafrul said 87 per cent of 5,822 manufacturing projects approved from 2021 to June 2026 had entered various implementation stages.
Malaysia approved RM218.5 billion in investments during the first half of 2026, following RM431.1 billion in 2025, according to Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) chairman Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Sharing the figures on X after participating in the B57+ Business Leaders’ Summit 2026 in Istanbul, he said they demonstrated investor confidence. He added that MIDA was working to ensure projects moved from approval into implementation, rather than focusing only on attracting investment.
Of the 5,822 manufacturing projects granted approval from 2021 to June 2026, 87 per cent had progressed to different implementation stages, he said. He also said investment success should be assessed through quality employment, technology transfers and opportunities for Malaysian companies, not just the amounts secured.
At the summit, Malaysia identified semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, clean energy and halal industries as potential fields for closer international cooperation. Tengku Zafrul also presented Malaysia as a gateway for investors seeking access to ASEAN markets.
His panel discussion covered how sovereign wealth funds could support economic cooperation among developing countries. Held on October 31 and November 1 in Istanbul, Türkiye, the summit aimed to deepen economic, trade and investment ties between Organisation of Islamic Cooperation members and international partners.
