Anwar: Malaysia finalising measures to protect MSMEs from foreign e-commerce

Malaysia is finalising measures to safeguard micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) from competition posed by foreign e-commerce platforms, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. The issue was discussed directly with Chinese leaders and during business meetings while Anwar was on a working visit to China. The government aims to tackle the matter comprehensively, with the matter set to be a priority at the upcoming Cabinet Meeting, Anwar said in a social media post.

Premier Li Qiang assured Anwar's commitment to finding the best way to protect local MSMEs and mitigate further impact. Chinese companies, like Alibaba, also expressed confidence in the measures. During his visit, Malaysia recorded potential investments worth RM28.6 billion in sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, robotics, electric vehicles, battery materials, advanced optics, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing.

The country also saw potential exports to China amounting to RM8.2 billion over the next one to three years. Anwar's visit to Shanghai and Hangzhou exposed Malaysia to new technology and AI applications, which can strengthen Malaysia's position against China's rapid progress. The prime minister highlighted that the visit strengthened Malaysia-China friendship and diversified cooperation, bringing benefits to both nations. Anwar departed for Kuala Lumpur after completing his three-day working visit to China.