What does Malaysia’s economic future really look like when policymakers, economists, and industry leaders sit at the same table? At CEO Series 2026, the answers weren’t theoretical, they were candid, forward-looking, and grounded in regional realities. Hosted by REHDA Institute, the annual conference opened 2026 with a sharp focus on where Malaysia stands in ASEAN and what must happen next to stay competitive in an increasingly uncertain global economy.
CEO Series 2026 Brings Decision-Makers Into One Room
Held at Le Méridien Petaling Jaya, CEO Series 2026 convened more than 400 senior figures from government, finance, industry, academia, and the international business community. Organised by a joint secretariat of supporting industry bodies, the conference examined Malaysia’s economic trajectory at a critical moment marked by shifting capital flows, global uncertainty, and intensifying competition for foreign direct investment.
Ministerial participation underscored the event’s national relevance, with insights shared by YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II; YB Tuan Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Minister of Transport; and YB Tuan Chiew Choon Man, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
From Policy Clarity To Regional Competitiveness
Discussions at CEO Series 2026 centred on innovation-led growth, investment readiness, recurring-income assets, and cross-border integration. Leaders explored how policy coherence and competitiveness can position Malaysia more strongly within ASEAN, particularly as regional peers accelerate reforms to attract global capital.
According to Dato’ Jeffrey Ng Tiong Lip, Chairman of REHDA Institute, the CEO Series serves as a neutral platform for meaningful dialogue, allowing policymakers and industry leaders to align long-term priorities while grounding decisions in market realities.
International Perspectives Shape Local Strategies
The conference drew international economists and industry experts from ASEAN, Australia, and Europe, including speakers from the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) and Moody’s Analytics. Participants from countries such as Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Australia, and Singapore contributed comparative insights on investment flows, capital markets, and regional development trends.
This global participation, Ng noted, reflects continued confidence in Malaysia’s economic fundamentals while enabling realistic benchmarking against regional peers.
Youth Talent Takes Centre Stage With RIYI Launch
One of the most significant outcomes of CEO Series 2026 was the launch of the REHDA Institute Youth Initiative (RIYI)—a national programme aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s future talent pipeline. Launched by YB Tuan Anthony Loke Siew Fook, RIYI brings together more than 13 universities nationwide with corporate leaders to offer structured mentorship, early industry exposure, and career guidance for high-potential students.
The initiative reinforces a key message from the conference: economic resilience depends not only on policy and investment, but on preparing young Malaysians with practical skills and realistic workplace expectations.
As Malaysia steps into 2026 amid regional transition and global uncertainty, CEO Series 2026 provided more than discussion—it offered alignment, perspective, and direction. By bridging policy, industry, and talent development, the conference reaffirmed the role of collaboration in shaping a competitive and resilient Malaysian economy.
