Kuala lumpur: Businesses in Malaysia and South Africa have the opportunity to jointly shape the next chapter of the bilateral economic cooperation, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He highlighted that South Africa’s diversified industrial base, supported by strong logistics, sophisticated financial systems, and a skilled workforce, provides an excellent foundation for deeper collaboration.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar emphasized strong potential in high-value sectors such as the automotive and electric vehicle (EV) ecosystems, mining and minerals value chain integration, halal industry development, petrochemicals, agro-processing, renewable energy, digital technology, and logistics. He made these remarks during the Business Forum with South African Captains of Industry, which saw participation from 200 companies.
The event featured the presence of South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Alexandra Lilian Amelia Abrahams, and Malaysia’s Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz. Also in attendance were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) chief executive officer Datuk Seri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, and Malaysia’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Datuk Yubazlan Yusof.
Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, noted that Malaysian companies like PROTON, Sime Darby, UEM Sunrise, Country Heights, and MR D.I.Y. have already established a presence in South Africa, showcasing confidence in the country’s market and growth prospects. He extended an invitation for South African companies to explore further opportunities in Malaysia and across ASEAN, suggesting that Malaysia could serve as a strategic gateway connecting South Africa’s industrial capabilities with Asia’s demand, technologies, and high-growth value chains.
The Prime Minister further highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to economic transformation with sustainability at the core of industrial development. He mentioned the country’s advancements in renewable energy, green technologies, hydrogen development, EV ecosystems, and circular economy initiatives, which align with South Africa’s priorities on energy transition and renewable energy.
Anwar also pointed out the vast room for collaboration in technology exchange and co-investment in areas such as hydrogen, green mobility, climate-smart agriculture, and sustainable mining solutions. His remarks came during his four-day working trip to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which starts tomorrow.