Kuala lumpur: Juwai IQI expects Malaysia to see Chinese investment inflow of at least RM30 billion this year, with battery and solar component plants accounting for a larger share. Juwai IQI co-founder and group chief executive officer Kashif Ansari said 2024 was the second-biggest gain ever in terms of Chinese capital, with RM31 billion finding its way to Malaysia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, total investment in 2024 was more than double that of 2023 and the most since 2015. Looking ahead, Juwai IQI expects at least RM30 billion in Chinese investment this year. Malaysia’s economy is riding a wave of foreign inflows, with China and Hong Kong as the largest sources.

Malaysia is proving its position as a key Asian economy, benefiting greatly from being part of ASEAN and from having a large economy like China nearby. Kashif Ansari also highlighted the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (SEZ) as a significant beneficiary, with Johor being the destination for large-scale industrial and logistics projects.

The SEZ is a major point of interest for corporate clients in China, especially manufacturers. With Malaysia’s New Industrial Master Plan targeting high-value manufacturing and green growth, investor interest is expected to sustain in 2025, particularly in renewable energy and advanced electronics.

The government is offering incentives such as deep tax breaks, quick licensing, and sector blueprints, which are expected to result in another year of at least RM30 billion in Chinese investment.