Economy Minister Eyes 2026 Execution of RMK13: Malaysia Targets 4.6–5.2% Growth

The Malaysian Economy Minister emphasized 2026 as the year to execute RMK13, Malaysia’s 13th Five-Year Plan, with a view to solidifying policy delivery and avoiding a new policy direction. General elections are due no later than February 2028. Malaysia grew 4.9% in 2025, unemployment reached 2.9%, and the ringgit hit its strongest level in five years. Tariff谈判 with the U.S. reduced duties to 19% in exchange for exemptions on key exports, supporting a record trade surplus of over 3 trillion MYR ($780B) last year. Economists forecast growth of 4.6%–5.2% in 2026, citing strong manufacturing, especially semiconductors, and infrastructure under RMK13. A licensing deal with Arm and expansion of the Johor–Singapore SEZ are attracting high-tech FDI, with Johor likely overtaking Selangor. The government aims to move up the value chain in semiconductors, expand the ASEAN power grid, and achieve net zero by 2050, while exploring nuclear power to back economic growth.