Good ties maintained with US, China to safeguard economic interests, says Anwar

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States and China to safeguard Malaysia's economic interests. During a recent meeting, Anwar stated that Malaysia did not "give anything away" in return for Alphabet and Google's planned investment of US$15 billion over the next two years, adding that conditions were imposed, including on training and water supply.

Despite disagreements with some US policies, particularly regarding the treatment of Palestinians in Gaza, Anwar highlighted the necessity of maintaining economic relations with the US to protect job opportunities for Malaysians. He noted that while Malaysia disagrees with many US policies, it remains one of the country's largest investors and trading partners.

Anwar also praised China as a key trading partner for Malaysia, emphasizing the good relations between the two nations. He underscored the significance of Alphabet's RM61 billion investment in Malaysia, stating that conditions were set, including training and water supply provisions. During a meeting with Anwar and other ministers, Ruth Porat, Alphabet and Google's president and chief investment officer, revealed the planned US$15 billion investment in Malaysia from 2027 to 2028, which would focus on digital infrastructure, data centre campuses, clean energy, and water supply initiatives.