KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 10): Foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows from Asean member states into the Malaysian economy has been growing steadily and is expected to continue do so moving forward, said Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed.

In 2016, FDI inflows from Asean countries into Malaysia amounted to RM8.6 billion. 

Among prominent Asean companies that have invested in Malaysia are Charoen, Pokphand, Wilmar, Musim Mas, Tipco Asphalt, San Miguel and TCC Group.

As for Malaysian investments in Asean countries, RM76.9 billion or 24.4% of Malaysia's total outward investments were invested between 2010-2016.

There is currently not yet a projection figure for 2017, though it is expected to be positive, MITI said.

Mustapa added that more must be done to boost SME participation. 

"While big companies continue to score successes in Asean, focus must also be given to SMEs for them to benefit from closer economic integration," Mustapa said, adding the SME contribution to Asean investments is still small at 5%.

Mustapa was speaking to reporters at the Intra-Asean investment forum happening today. It is co-hosted by the ministry, Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA) and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) to promote intra-Asean investments and exports.