Malaysia is committed to strengthening the semiconductor supply chain in collaboration with ASEAN member states as part of its chairmanship agenda this year, said Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong.
Emphasizing Malaysia’s role as a regional partner rather than a competitor, Liew dismissed claims that the country is in direct competition with Vietnam and other ASEAN economies in the semiconductor sector.
“Many say that Malaysia is competing with Vietnam and other neighbouring countries, but the ASEAN spirit is that we do not see our neighbours or ASEAN partners as rivals,” he stated during a question-and-answer session in the Dewan Negara on Wednesday.
Liew was responding to Senator Kesavadas Achyuthan Nair’s inquiry regarding equitable economic growth among ASEAN nations and Malaysia’s strategic direction as the 2025 ASEAN chair in navigating global trade and geopolitical challenges.
He underscored the importance of cooperation among Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore—three key players in the global semiconductor industry—to enhance supply chain resilience and mitigate risks.
“We hope to strengthen the supply chain so that if there are any disruptions or global issues, we can tackle them together,” he added.
ASEAN Economic Strategy & Vision 2045
Liew also highlighted that the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) is in the final stages of developing the AEC Strategic Plan 2026-2030, which is expected to be launched in May during the 46th ASEAN Summit and related meetings.
“This AEC Strategic Plan will be introduced alongside the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, reinforcing ASEAN’s long-term economic integration and resilience,” he noted.
As the 2025 ASEAN chair, Malaysia aims to take a proactive and progressive leadership role in advancing ASEAN’s economic agenda, ensuring that regional supply chains remain robust and adaptable to global challenges.
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