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MALAYSIA must produce more regionally competitive companies capable of moving up the value chain and creating better-paying jobs, with Bursa Malaysia Bhd expected to play a bigger role in helping local businesses expand, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said too many promising Malaysian companies remained small despite their potential, and called on the stock exchange to help more mid-tier businesses grow, raise capital through listings and establish themselves as regional champions.
“I would like to see more mid-tier companies grow, list and become regional champions. Too many good companies stay small for too long.
“Bursa has a role in helping them take that next step. If it succeeds, we should see more Malaysian businesses grow, more good jobs created and more Malaysians holding a stake in the country’s progress,” he said.
He was speaking at the keynote address during Bursa Malaysia’s 50th anniversary celebration yesterday.
Anwar also urged Malaysian businesses to strengthen their capabilities in semiconductors, advanced manufacturing and digital technology to compete more confidently in international markets.
He said the government was working to improve governance, maintain fiscal discipline and strengthen the country's appeal to investors.
Malaysia recorded RM218.5 billion in approved investments in the first half of this year, reflecting efforts to attract investment and expand economic opportunities, he said.
Anwar also stressed that trust and fairness must remain central to the capital market, particularly for companies seeking funds from Malaysian investors.
He said the market would have to navigate mounting geopolitical tensions, technological disruption and the global energy transition, while recalling how it had continued supporting investment and economic recovery through financial crises and the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Under the Madani Economy, we are aiming to raise the ceiling of what our economy can achieve while raising the floor of our people’s living standards,” he said. - October 30, 2026
