Malaysia Pushes Stronger Trade Resilience as Global Risks Challenge Businesses: Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s trade ecosystem through sustainable policies and improved global resilience as businesses face mounting international uncertainties.
Deputy Minister Fuziah Salleh said global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and climate-related challenges are increasingly affecting local business operations, profit margins and long-term sustainability.
Speaking during a programme held at Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre, Fuziah stressed that companies must move beyond traditional business models and focus on stronger branding, market positioning and customer confidence to remain competitive.
“Businesses that are able to adapt, innovate and respond strategically during periods of global pressure will emerge stronger and better positioned in the market,” she said in a statement on Wednesday.
According to Fuziah, KPDN’s current focus revolves around three major priorities — simplifying business processes, strengthening supply chain stability and balancing the people’s cost of living with business sustainability.
She said the ministry is also intensifying efforts to improve regulatory systems and reduce bureaucracy in order to create a more investor-friendly domestic trade environment.
At the same time, KPDN is closely monitoring the integrity of the domestic supply chain to minimise risks of disruptions and boost investor confidence in Malaysia’s economy.
Fuziah noted that the wholesale, retail and motor vehicle sectors continued to record encouraging growth and remained among the key contributors to the national economy.
Based on data from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the sector registered sales worth RM169 billion in March 2026, marking a 9.8 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.
She added that figures from KPDN’s Policy, Strategic Planning and International Division showed wholesale and retail trade sales rose 7.5 per cent during the first quarter of 2026 compared to 4.6 per cent in the corresponding period in 2025.
The ministry will also continue expanding the implementation of the Rahmah MADANI Sales Programme and other initiatives under the Rahmah umbrella to help consumers access essential goods at lower prices while supporting traders through higher customer traffic and sales opportunities.
Fuziah reaffirmed the MADANI Government’s commitment to empowering micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), describing them as a vital pillar of Malaysia’s economy and a key source of investment, employment and economic growth.
She also welcomed programmes focusing on legal readiness and strategic visibility, saying such initiatives are important in helping businesses strengthen competitiveness and market confidence amid increasingly complex global economic conditions.
KPDN additionally expressed appreciation to KNKV Group, Hafarizam Wan & Aisha Mubarak and all parties involved in ensuring the success of the programme.