BATU KAWAN, June 20 — Malaysia’s commitment to engaging all countries while maintaining its independence and neutrality has strengthened international confidence in the nation and created new opportunities for economic cooperation, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He added that the approach has allowed Malaysia to foster strong ties with countries across different geopolitical blocs, resulting in tangible economic benefits like Petronas’ latest deal in Turkmenistan.
“We did (engage) with United States President Donald Trump, who was here last year; a significant visit. And then we (engaged) with China, India, (and) now recently with Russia… (This) shows our centrality; the position that Malaysia takes is to make sure we engage all countries and maintain our independence, neutrality.
“We express our position in some of the more contentious issues affecting the world but we welcome the participation of all,” he said when speaking at the MKS Super Centre factory opening ceremony in Bandar Cassia Technology Park here today.
Also present were Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin, and MKS president and chief executive officer John T.C. Lee.
Anwar said Malaysia’s engagement with major global powers, including the US, China, India and Russia, demonstrates the country’s commitment to constructive international cooperation while safeguarding its national interests.
He also said Turkmenistan had agreed to award Petronas the development of two major gas blocks, including one of the largest gas fields in the world, reflecting the confidence foreign governments have in Malaysia’s capabilities, stability and professionalism.
He noted that the agreement with Turkmenistan is a direct outcome of Malaysia’s efforts to build meaningful relationships with countries around the world.
Anwar, who is also finance minister, stressed that international investors’ confidence is critical to Malaysia’s economic growth and future progress, pointing to continued investments from major global companies in strategic sectors such as semiconductors.
The prime minister said Penang’s success in attracting quality investments shows that clear policies, efficient administration, and less bureaucracy could strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness.
He pointed out that the country must continue investing in talent development, education and industry collaboration to support emerging sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced manufacturing.
He said Malaysia’s future competitiveness would depend not on low costs but on sophisticated industrial capabilities and the depth of its talent pool.
Anwar called for stronger collaboration between universities and industry players to ensure graduates are equipped with the skills needed for new and rapidly evolving technologies, while maintaining a broader educational focus on values, humanity and compassion.
