'Malaysia will stay as top FDI destination in Asean'

PETALING JAYA: Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Mukhriz Mahathir is confident of Malaysia maintaining its position as the foremost foreign direct investment (FDI) destination in the Asean region.

He said foreign investors' sentiment remains positive, encouraged by the effectiveness of the government's continuous economic transformation policies despite the current global economic slowdown.

"The Asean region is growing rapidly and investors are keen on investing in Malaysia, as among the region's members, we have posted the best economic growth.

"Last year's gross domestic product rose 5.6 per cent. This is a result to be proud of as it was achieved in a not very encouraging economic climate at the global level.

"This is what creates confidence among investors," Mukhriz said after launching the CreaNova 2013 here yesterday.

Asked on the effect of the forthcoming 13th general election on total FDI, he said the situation had influenced investors' decision.

Mukhriz said the backdrop of uncertainity has made foreign investors take a wait-and-see attitude.

CreaNova 2013, sponsored by the Malaysia Productivity Corp, gives recognition to creative and innovative entrepreneurs under the Knowledge Content Development Intervention Programme for Firms. Bernama