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Malaysia seeks to deepen trade ties with South Korea in chips, AI, halal sector

South Korea’s biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors can complement Malaysia’s halal certification system, a Malaysian official says

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The Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. South Korean companies can use Malaysia as a gateway to Asean, Malaysian officials say. Photo: AP
The Korea Times
Malaysia is seeking to elevate its economic partnership with South Korea beyond traditional manufacturing and trade by positioning itself as a long-term strategic partner in high-value industries, ranging from semiconductors and AI to electric vehicles, renewable energy and the fast-growing global halal economy.

Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) director Redzuan Abd Rahman and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) trade commissioner Mohamad Termizi HJ Piee said the two countries’ economic relationship had entered a new phase, with growing opportunities for South Korean companies to leverage Malaysia as both an investment destination and a gateway to the wider Asean market.

“Malaysia and South Korea have built a strong and enduring economic partnership over the past several decades,” Redzuan said. “We believe the greatest opportunities lie in deepening collaboration in industries that are shaping the future of our economies.”

According to MIDA, South Korean companies have implemented investments totalling US$11.7 billion across more than 400 projects in Malaysia as of 2025, creating nearly 50,000 jobs. Those investments span chemicals, transport equipment, electrical and electronic products, petroleum products and basic metals.

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