Kuala lumpur: Malaysia will review new investment applicants to ensure their activities generate employment and economic benefits for the country, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized the need for scrutiny of companies utilizing local resources without contributing to the domestic economy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) has alerted the government about companies that operate warehouses and transit activities that fail to provide employment or economic contributions. Anwar stated that while some of these activities have been halted, the government will need to review new applicants to prevent similar occurrences.

During a TikTok Shop Summit 2026 event, Anwar was questioned about the influx of low-cost products from overseas via cross-border platforms like Temu and Pinduoduo. He explained that Malaysia's status as a free-trade country offers substantial opportunities for businesses, but also results in increased product entries into the market, sometimes undercutting local prices through what is referred to as dumping.

Anwar expressed concern over businesses registering under local names while selling entirely imported goods, noting the lack of benefits to the local community. He cited instances of large investors renting warehouses in Port Klang without hiring local workers or utilizing Malaysian products, stressing the need for enforcement and monitoring to ensure businesses contribute positively to the economy.

He concluded by stating that these activities required stringent oversight to ensure that businesses operating in Malaysia provide tangible benefits to the domestic economy.