Summary
- Malaysia could reach high-income nation status within two to three years.
- First-half 2026 trade hit a record RM1.796 trillion.
- Exports rose 27.5% to RM971.6 billion.
- E&E exports surged 42.5% to RM467.9 billion.
- Technology products are increasingly driving Malaysia’s economic growth.
GEORGE TOWN, August 15 — Malaysia could achieve high-income nation status within two to three years as technology-driven exports strengthen the economy.
Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Sim Tze Tzin said. Malaysia recorded a record RM1.796 trillion in total trade during the first half of 2026, up 22.4% year-on-year.
Exports climbed 27.5% to RM971.6 billion, while imports reached RM824.4 billion. Producing a RM147.1 billion trade surplus. E&E exports, including semiconductors, surged 42.5% to RM467.9 billion.
Sim said Malaysia is increasingly transforming from a traditional commodity-based economy into a technology-driven nation.
