PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim hailed his recent six-day visit to Germany as an "extraordinary" success for the nation which marked a significant milestone.
He said this success was a testament to the newfound confidence of foreign leaders and investors in Malaysia's administrative efficiency, which has significantly improved and is committed to addressing wastage issues.
"I just returned from my official visit to Germany. I had discussions with the German president and chancellor, which spanned investment matters, technical cooperation, TVET (technical and vocational education and training), engineering education and meetings with various investors.
"I would like to take this opportunity to express to the Chief Secretary to the Government (Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali) that I am proud to serve alongside such dedicated civil servants. The impact they have is tremendous, and the reception has been extraordinary.
"I am not making this up... you can ask the accompanying ministers. Investors also expressed their confidence in our enhanced efficiency and ability to make prudent decisions free from inefficiencies.
"I'm pleased to report successful negotiations with several major corporations, securing their immediate investment commitments," he said during the Prime Minister's Department monthly assembly.
Anwar had previously announced that his visit to Germany had resulted in new potential investment commitments for Malaysia amounting to RM45.4 billion, following fruitful discussions with representatives from 38 prominent companies.
Germany has been Malaysia's largest trading partner among European Union members since 2000, while Malaysia is Germany's biggest trading partner in Asean.
In 2023, Malaysia's total trade with Germany rose by 5.9 per cent to RM63.45 billion (US$13.90 billion) compared to RM59.87 billion (US$13.62 billion) in 2022.
Anwar said Malaysia stands poised to advance its economic development with other nations if the administration continues to uphold such a commendable performance.
He also underscored Malaysia's positive international media coverage, attributing it to its steadfast stance on policy administration and global issues.
"In my discussions with investors behind closed doors, the sentiment has been overwhelmingly positive. With our current capabilities and determination, we can propel our economy forward.
"While political uncertainties may cast doubt, we must remain focused on tangible evidence. Never before have we witnessed such substantial levels of investment in our history, and the favourable response from the international media to our speeches and policies is a testament to this."
On March 10, Prime Minister Anwar arrived in Germany for his inaugural visit since taking office in November 2022.
The prime minister began his series of programmes on March 11 with a visit to the Siemens Energy plant in Berlin, followed by a courtesy visit to Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace, who visited Malaysia in February last year.