Malaysia's economic growth slows to 5.3% in Q1 2026 amid strain from Mideast conflict
Malaysia is feeling the strain from the Middle East conflict. Its economy expanded 5.3% in Q1 2026, slower than the 6.3% recorded in the previous quarter. This reflects resilience, but is also a sign of early pressure from rising global tensions. Manufacturing output grew 7.3% in January and 4.2% in February, driven largely by export-oriented industries. Afifah Ariffin reports from Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia is feeling the strain from the Middle East conflict. Its economy expanded 5.3% in Q1 2026, slower than the 6.3% recorded in the previous quarter. This reflects resilience, but is also a sign of early pressure from rising global tensions. Manufacturing output grew 7.3% in January and 4.2% in February, driven largely by export-oriented industries. Afifah Ariffin reports from Kuala Lumpur.