7-7-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the Prime Minister of Malaysia, is set to meet with Elon Musk, the CEO of electric car giant Tesla, next week to explore opportunities for increased investments in Malaysia. Musk, who also owns Twitter, expressed his interest in the meeting to discuss the matter.
During a meeting session with state civil servants at MBS Hall, Anwar highlighted the need for new investments to boost the country’s income and reduce its debt, which currently stands at RM1.5 trillion. He emphasized the importance of attracting both domestic and foreign direct investments to generate more job opportunities.
In March, International Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz announced that Tesla’s application to import battery electric vehicles (BEV) into Malaysia had been approved. Tesla plans to establish a head office in the country and introduce “experience centres,” service centres, and the “Supercharger” network. This move by Tesla is expected to create skilled jobs in the BEV segment and enhance the participation of local companies in the Tesla ecosystem.
Anwar also shared that he recently met with Japanese investors who agreed to invest an additional RM20 billion in Malaysia. In addition, during a visit to China, Anwar secured a commitment of RM170 billion in investments from Chinese investors. Multiple memoranda of understanding were signed, including the development of a high-technology automotive valley focusing on new energy vehicles.
Furthermore, Anwar revealed that he had met with representatives from Saudi Arabian oil company Aramco, who expressed their intention to increase investments in Johor.
The Prime Minister affirmed his government’s commitment to seeking more investments for the betterment of the people. He acknowledged the crucial role that civil servants play in ensuring the success of these investments and urged them to continue carrying out their duties responsibly and maintaining the trust placed in them.
