Malaysia to roll out measures protecting MSMEs from overseas e-commerce rivals

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed that the MADANI government is drafting policies to address the challenges faced by Malaysian micro, small and medium enterprises from foreign e-commerce operators, a topic he raised directly with China’s top leadership during his recent trip. He indicated that the proposals will be a priority item at the upcoming cabinet meeting. Premier Li Qiang expressed willingness to identify ways to safeguard local firms, and major Chinese platforms, including Alibaba, offered assurances of support.

The MADANI Diplomacy Mission in Shanghai and Hangzhou reported potential Chinese investment amounting to RM28.6 billion, targeting sectors such as semiconductors, AI, robotics, electric vehicles, battery materials, advanced optics, biotechnology and advanced manufacturing. In addition, the mission projected possible Malaysian exports to China of RM8.2 billion within a one-to-three-year horizon. Anwar highlighted that the visit deepened Malaysia-China friendship and opened avenues for technology transfer and economic cooperation.