Trade and Investment flows between Malaysia and the Middle East have increased in recent years. Malaysia is fast becoming a gateway to the combined ASEAN market 550 million with the coming into effect of the ASEAN Free Trade Area. Malaysia’s Iskandar Development Region offers abundant investment opportunities for Arab investors. Similarly, the new special Economic Zone in the East Coast Economic Corridor will also create new opportunities for investors. Likewise the GCC countries are attractive investment destinations for Malaysian businessmen and investors who see the growth potential in the Gulf countries, drawing in more investor interest. Sovereign Wealth Funds in the Gulf countries have also increased in value and there funds have started to invest actively in many countries globally.
