JETRO: Japanese investors showing strong interest in Malaysia

Japanese firms are showing strong interest to invest in Malaysia as they are seeking to tap the opportunities from the Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) which will come into force next year.

Joji Ikeshita, MD, Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), Kuala Lumpur, said Japanese investors are shifting their interest from traditional manufacturing to new markets in tandem with demand, new trends and a better lifestyle.

"Enquiries from Japanese investors on opportunities in Malaysia are on the rise. Some of them are planning to shift operations from China and are seeking opportunities in ASEAN, especially with AFTA in the offing," he said.

Ikeshita said Japanese investors are making more enquiries on Malaysia's halal-related industry with regard to tourism, food and beverages, green and high technology and service sectors.

He said Japanese investors are more keen on environmental-friendly industries like renewable energy and energy-saving technology owing to strong demand for green products amid rising electricity costs.

"There are new trends for Japanese firms, especially SMB players to have collaborations with Malaysian companies to reduce energy waste," he said.

Ikeshita said more joint-ventures are likely between Malaysian and Japanese companies on green technology following several successful collaborations, namely Eco City in Melaka and Smart City in Iskandar Malaysia.