Vietnam and Malaysia reaffirmed their strong economic partnership at the Vietnam–Malaysia Business Meeting, held InterContinental Kuala Lumpur. In his keynote address, Vietnamese Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính delivered a powerful message of unity, strategic reform, and shared prosperity, calling on businesses from both countries to seize new opportunities in green, digital, and circular economies.
“We must walk together to go far. But independence and self-reliance remain indispensable,” stated Prime Minister Chính, as he invited Malaysian enterprises to join Vietnam on its path of rapid and inclusive economic transformation.
A Time for Unity and Economic Connectivity
Amidst an increasingly volatile and unpredictable global landscape, Prime Minister Chính stressed the need for regional unity and multilateral collaboration. He underscored that no single country or business can face today’s complex challenges alone, and emphasized the importance of linking Vietnam and Malaysia across strategic sectors—green energy, digital infrastructure, and sustainable economic models.
Vietnam and Malaysia are currently discussing the formation of an ASEAN Green Energy Corridor, which would pave the way for stronger renewable energy collaboration, data sharing, and integrated economic networks across the region.
Vietnam’s Development Journey: From Recovery to Resilience
The Prime Minister reflected on Vietnam’s post-war recovery and economic rise, noting that from a GDP of just USD 4 billion in the 1980s, Vietnam has grown into the 32nd largest economy in the world, with trade volumes nearing USD 790 billion and annual FDI inflows of USD 25–26 billion. In 2024, Vietnam’s economy grew by over 7%, with a goal of surpassing 8% in 2025.
“A poor, dependent nation cannot secure its sovereignty. That is why we are determined to build an independent, self-reliant economy, while deeply integrating with the global system,” he affirmed.
Five Key Messages and Strategic Breakthroughs
Prime Minister Chính outlined three strategic breakthroughs for Vietnam’s transformation:
- Infrastructure Development: Expanding transport, digital, health, and education systems to improve national competitiveness.
- Institutional Reform: Modernizing governance and aligning regulations with ASEAN and global standards.
- Human Capital Investment: Enhancing workforce quality to meet development demands.
He also introduced bold reforms including:
- High-speed railways connecting to ASEAN and China;
- Expanding air and maritime connectivity;
- Restructuring government for smart, service-oriented governance.
Vietnam is prioritizing science, technology, and innovation as new growth drivers, while reaffirming its commitment to global leadership and inclusive partnerships, particularly with nations like Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.
“We do not wish to always follow. We aim to help shape a fairer, more inclusive global order.”
Invitation to Invest: A Transparent and Open Vietnam
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Chính made a clear call to action for Malaysian investors and businesses:
“We are committed to providing a transparent, reliable, and enabling environment for investment. Property rights, business freedom, and equal access to resources are guaranteed.”
Vietnam is now placing strong emphasis on private sector development as a key engine of growth, transitioning from past economic conservatism to embrace entrepreneurship and productivity as national strengths.
About the Vietnam–Malaysia Business Meeting
The Vietnam–Malaysia Business Meeting serves as a platform for strategic dialogue between the two nations, facilitating investment cooperation and economic integration. This year’s edition focused on shared opportunities in digital economy, clean energy, and regional connectivity—reinforcing the long-term vision of a resilient and prosperous ASEAN.
