Penang:Malaysia has emerged as a key beneficiary amid global disruptions caused by tariffs, wars, and oil supply issues, with increased profits and purchases from local suppliers, according to the United States Embassy Chargé d'Affaires to Malaysia, David Gamble.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gamble emphasized the strengthening Malaysia-US relationship, which is supported by over 50 years of shared history and trust, creating a profitable environment for businesses and encouraging further investment in the country.
Gamble noted that despite shifting dynamics, profits in Malaysia are on the rise, with 94 percent of US companies maintaining or increasing their investments. This success is attributed to the long-standing trust and technological cooperation between the two nations, particularly in regions like Penang.
Penang is highlighted as a significant hub for high-technology cooperation, especially in advanced manufacturing and the medical device industry. Gamble pointed out that Penang is crucial in the medical device sector, producing half of the pacemakers that are exported to the US.
AMCHAM chief executive officer Datuk Siobhan Das reiterated the importance of the 50-year foundation of trust between the two countries in attracting further investment. She stressed that the growing interest from US companies must be met with adequate infrastructure, clear regulations, and a strong talent pipeline.
American companies in Malaysia are noted for paying employees an average of 2.2 times the local wage and offering career development opportunities within multinational ecosystems. Siobhan emphasized the importance of dialogue and action among government, companies, and stakeholders to sustain this trust and investment interest for the future.