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THE Malaysian government has said that ongoing changes in global supply chains could create new opportunities for the country as international companies diversify sourcing strategies and reduce dependence on single markets or trade routes.
The National Economic Action Council (MTEN), in a briefing today, found that the nation must accelerate efforts to attract high-quality investments, strengthen local suppliers, expand market access and support domestic companies in moving into higher-value economic activities.
Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the government would continue negotiations for the Malaysia-European Union Free Trade Agreement while strengthening trade cooperation with strategic international partners.
He said improved market access must translate into tangible opportunities for Malaysian companies, particularly small and medium enterprises (SMEs), by enabling them to participate more actively in global value chains.
The government will also examine proposals for the voluntary implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), taking into account business costs, SME capabilities and the readiness of recycling infrastructure.
Four Strategic Priorities To Strengthen Malaysia’s Economic Resilience
Following MTEN deliberations, Akmal outlined four key priorities to safeguard Malaysia’s economic future amid increasing global uncertainties.
The first priority is ensuring continued security of food, energy and industrial supplies through early risk monitoring, sufficient inventories and diversified sources of supply.
The second is reducing unnecessary structural costs and compliance burdens while safeguarding national revenue, consumer protection and the competitiveness of domestic industries.
The third is expanding market access, attracting quality investments and enabling local companies, particularly SMEs, to participate in higher-value global supply chains.
The fourth is accelerating technology adoption, circular economy initiatives and talent development to ensure Malaysia’s competitiveness is driven by innovation rather than cost advantages alone.
The government acknowledged that global risks remain unpredictable, particularly as tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz continue to create uncertainty in energy and logistics markets.
However, it stressed that future policy decisions would continue to be guided by data, industry feedback and practical measures aimed at protecting Malaysians while strengthening the country’s long-term economic resilience. - July 13, 2026
