Malaysia attracted RM218.5 billion in approved investments in the first half of 2026, with foreign investors accounting for almost 60% of the total and AI-related projects continuing to drive interest. But investment remains concentrated among a handful of countries and states, while a tougher global environment could test whether recent momentum can be sustained. Can Malaysia reach its RM382 billion target for the year, and how much of today’s investment pipeline will ultimately translate into jobs and real economic activity?


Image Credit: Shutterstock

Malaysia attracted RM218.5 billion in approved investments in the first half of 2026, with foreign investors accounting for almost 60% of the total and AI-related projects continuing to drive interest. But investment remains concentrated among a handful of countries and states, while a tougher global environment could test whether recent momentum can be sustained. Can Malaysia reach its RM382 billion target for the year, and how much of today’s investment pipeline will ultimately translate into jobs and real economic activity? Image Credit: Shutterstock

Opinion and analysis of today’s international and local news that matter to Malaysians. Everything you need to know to start and plan your work.

Opinion and analysis of today&rsquo;s international and local news that matter to Malaysians. Everything you need to know to start and plan your work.