Anwar courts Chinese industry leaders with eye on investments in chips, AI and robotics

SHANGHAI, Sept 23 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hosted a roundtable discussion with leaders from 21 prominent Chinese firms to explore potential high-value strategic investments, discussing sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, robotics, electric vehicles, battery materials, advanced optics, biotechnology, healthcare, specialty chemicals, and advanced manufacturing.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence in Malaysia's ability to become a top investment and manufacturing hub in the region, citing its strong industrial ecosystem, skilled workforce, strategic location, and robust supply chain networks. Anwar, who serves as Malaysia's Finance Minister, highlighted the government's commitment to facilitating high-quality investments that promote technology transfer, local talent development, increased participation of Malaysian companies, and the creation of quality job opportunities.

The discussion also included participation from Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani and Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. Malaysia has maintained China as its largest trading partner for the past 17 years, with bilateral trade reaching US$113.82 billion from January to August of this year. Anwar arrived in Shanghai for a three-day working visit on Tuesday.