Malaysia's Economy Stays Resilient Despite Global Uncertainty - Amir Hamzah - Portal Rasmi Kementerian Kewangan
Malaysia's Economy Stays Resilient Despite Global Uncertainty - Amir Hamzah Portal Rasmi Kementerian Kewangan
Source: Portal Rasmi Kementerian Kewangan · mof.gov.my · August 13, 2026 at 7:37 PM · AI-assisted report

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 AUGUST 2026 —
Listen to this article
DomainFork Audio · read aloud
Malaysia's economy has demonstrated resilience in the face of global uncertainty, with the country recording encouraging growth despite geopolitical conflicts and economic challenges. According to Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Malaysia's economy grew by 5.2 percent in 2024 and maintained the same growth rate in 2025, with the first quarter of this year showing a gross domestic product (GDP) increase of 5.4 percent.
Market Impact
The Malaysian economy's strong performance is a testament to the country's ability to navigate uncertain global economic conditions. The advance estimate for the second quarter of this year indicates a GDP growth rate of 5.8 percent, bringing the overall growth rate for the year to 5.6 percent. This achievement is notable, given the trade issues and conflicts in West Asia that have impacted the global economy.
Amir Hamzah attributed the country's resilience to the implementation of the MADANI Economy Framework, which has been on the right track, with various initiatives starting to have a positive impact on the economy and the well-being of the people.
The GEAR-uP programme, led by the Ministry of Finance since 2024, is a key initiative aimed at boosting the country's economy through domestic direct investment. The programme has allocated a total of RM120 billion for the period 2024 to 2028, with government-linked investment companies (GLICs) and government-linked companies (GLCs) playing a crucial role in its implementation. These companies have been instrumental in catalyzing the growth of domestic industries, providing access to talent, funds, and expertise.
According to Amir Hamzah, the involvement of GLICs and GLCs in the GEAR-uP programme has helped to attract investments and expertise to Malaysia, contributing to the country's development.
The GEAR-uP programme is a significant component of the Malaysian government's efforts to drive economic growth and achieve long-term development aspirations. The programme's focus on domestic direct investment is expected to have a positive impact on the country's economy, creating jobs and stimulating economic activity.
With the cooperation of all parties, including GLICs and GLCs, the government is confident that the MADANI Economy agenda can be realized, leading to a more developed and mature economy in the future. As Amir Hamzah noted, the country is on the right track, and with continued effort and cooperation, Malaysia can achieve its development goals.
The Malaysian economy's resilience is also reflected in its ability to attract investments and talent. The country's strategic location, combined with its business-friendly environment and skilled workforce, makes it an attractive destination for investors. The government's initiatives, such as the GEAR-uP programme, have helped to promote Malaysia as a hub for trade and investment, contributing to the country's economic growth.
With the global economy facing uncertainty, Malaysia's ability to attract investments and talent will be crucial in driving its economic growth and achieving its development aspirations.
In terms of data, the Malaysian economy's growth rate has been impressive, with the country recording a GDP growth rate of 5.2 percent in 2024 and 2025. The first quarter of this year saw a GDP growth rate of 5.4 percent, with the advance estimate for the second quarter indicating a growth rate of 5.8 percent. This brings the overall growth rate for the year to 5.6 percent, exceeding expectations.
The GEAR-uP programme has allocated a total of RM120 billion for the period 2024 to 2028, with the government expecting significant returns on investment.
The impact of the Malaysian economy's resilience will be felt across the region, with the country's growth expected to contribute to the overall growth of the ASEAN economy. As a key player in the regional economy, Malaysia's ability to navigate global uncertainty and achieve economic growth will have a positive impact on its neighbors.
The country's experience and expertise in driving economic growth will also be shared with other countries in the region, contributing to the development of the ASEAN economy as a whole.
Looking ahead, the Malaysian economy is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by the government's initiatives and the country's resilience in the face of global uncertainty. With the GEAR-uP programme and the MADANI Economy Framework in place, the government is confident that the country can achieve its long-term development aspirations and become a more developed and mature economy in the future.
As Amir Hamzah noted, the country is on the right track, and with continued effort and cooperation, Malaysia can achieve its development goals and become a leader in the regional economy. Details on the government's future plans and initiatives will be announced in due course, but for now, the focus remains on driving economic growth and achieving the country's development aspirations.
Related: Ministry of Finance · Finance Minister