SHAH ALAM, Aug 3 — The state must not become complacent with its position as Malaysia’s largest economy, but instead leverage its strong economic fundamentals to become a more open, confident, and globally competitive state, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
While highlighting Selangor’s robust economic performance, he said economic achievements alone will not guarantee the state’s long-term success as Malaysia approaches the 70th anniversary of its independence next year.
“Where do we go from here? Are we merely satisfied with the achievements we have recorded, or are we prepared to step into a bigger stage and face new challenges?” Amirudin said during the Selangor Civil Servants Assembly and launch of the ‘Fly the Jalur Gemilang’ campaign in conjunction with National Day, at the State Secretariat Building today.
Citing the Malaysian Statistics Department, he said latest macroeconomic data showed that Selangor is on track to become the country’s first state with an economy valued at RM500 billion within the next two to three years.
This milestone reflects the collective efforts of businesses, workers, and the people of the state.
In 2025, Selangor contributed 26.5 per cent to Malaysia’s gross domestic product, with the state’s economy reaching RM460.1 billion.
“This achievement was not contributed by any single party, but through our collective efforts in formulating and implementing policies together with businesses, workers and the people that make Selangor the heartbeat of Malaysia,” Amirudin said.
Thus, the state’s future competitiveness will depend not only on fiscal strength but also on its openness to new ideas, cultures, and technologies, while remaining rooted in its own identity.
As part of efforts to strengthen Selangor’s international presence, the state has begun positioning itself as a regional player by taking initiatives such as the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) beyond Malaysia and into the ASEAN market.
“We have challenged ourselves to become an ASEAN player. We are bringing the SIBS to the ASEAN level, and taking our delegations abroad to promote Selangor and Malaysia as competitive and attractive investment destinations,” he said.
The inaugural SIBS@ASEAN 2026 was held in Bandung, Indonesia on July 9 and July 10.
It brought together over 400 delegates and showcased 50 prominent Selangor-based companies to strengthen cross-border investment and trade, with discussions focused on sectors including aerospace, rail, technology, energy, creative industries, property development, medical tourism, and higher education.
The summit, which brought together 431 delegates and 696 visitors, generated RM253.59 million in potential transaction value and successfully facilitated 237 business matchings among 74 participating companies.
The Menteri Besar noted that the state’s success should not be measured solely by economic indicators, but also by its ability to project its culture, values and confidence to the world.
