Speaking at Invest Malaysia 2021, Ismail said there was a need to be creative and innovative in drawing investments and that vaccinations were a key factor in ensuring a safe environment for investors.

“As a result, Malaysia is now ready to be back on track as an investment hub both regionally and internationally.

“This is made possible through continuous cooperation with every member of ‘Keluarga Malaysia’. Today, safe bubbles for all businesses with new norms are being safely applied,” he said in his keynote address.

Ismail said that as the “gateway” to the Asean market through the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), Malaysia provided business communities with the most conducive environment for investments.

He pointed out that almost 30% of the global gross domestic product (GDP) was generated by the 15 countries within the RCEP, while it was estimated that their overall aggregate GDP income would rise by US$174 billion by 2030.

“This will give our corporations and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) a more level playing field while facilitating access to larger regional markets.”

He said Putrajaya was working hand-in-hand with the private sector towards becoming a carbon-neutral country as early as 2050, with various sectors and industries encouraged to develop the necessary technology.

“In light of this, Bursa Malaysia and various government ministries are now consistently collaborating to launch a voluntary carbon market, in transiting into a zero-carbon economy,” he said.