Kuala lumpur: Malaysia’s economic future is set to hinge on the creation of technology and the development of industries with deep capabilities, as outlined by the Ministry of Economy. Malaysia’s economic strength will depend on three primary priorities: creating technology instead of merely adopting it and building industries backed by long-term commitment. The Deputy Economy Minister, Datuk Hanifah Hajar Taib, emphasized the importance of nurturing companies that can scale confidently beyond the nation’s borders.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hanifah Hajar stated that achieving these priorities would require a collective commitment from all stakeholders to ensure sustainable and competitive economic growth. She stressed that competitive advantage today relies on the capacity to create value, operate efficiently, reach global markets, and address real-world challenges with creativity and agility. In her keynote speech at the VentureTECH Innovation Forum and Exhibition 2025 (VIFE 2025), she highlighted that Malaysia must transition from being mere users of technology to becoming creators and leaders.
Hanifah Hajar also pointed out that the Malaysian industry, particularly bumiputera-led enterprises, must develop deeper capabilities to participate in high-value sectors that demand advanced skills and long-term development. Meanwhile, VentureTECH Sdn Bhd chairman, Datuk Khalilur Rahman Ebrahim, articulated the purpose of the forum, which aims to elevate the visibility of global product-led companies in high-growth, high-value sectors.
Khalilur Rahman further explained that the forum seeks to deepen collaboration between government industries, academia, and investors, translating ideas into tangible opportunities, partnerships, and innovation. He emphasized that innovation must improve productivity, create high-quality jobs, reduce import dependencies, and build industrial competitiveness, empowering new product enterprises to lead.
Highlighting VentureTECH’s achievements, Khalilur Rahman noted that the company’s investment portfolio now exceeds RM2.5 billion, with investments in over 30 booming technology companies. These companies have collectively created 3,600 high-skilled jobs, with their products and services available in more than 30 countries.