Malaysia should evaluate investors on job quality and women's treatment

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia should shift its focus when assessing foreign investors, prioritising factors such as job quality and workplace treatment of women rather than relying solely on capital investment figures, according to Tengku Zafrul Aziz, a prominent Malaysian politician and businessman.

Tengku Zafrul argued that the nation's investment evaluation criteria should be broadened to consider the calibre of employment opportunities generated by foreign enterprises and their commitment to fair labour practices, particularly regarding gender equality in the workplace.

The comments reflect growing concerns among policymakers about ensuring that foreign direct investment delivers sustainable benefits to Malaysian workers and society at large. Quality employment metrics and corporate responsibility towards women workers have become increasingly important considerations for many developing economies seeking to attract investment.

Malaysia, as a major regional investment hub, has long attracted multinational corporations across manufacturing, technology, and services sectors. Officials have previously emphasised the importance of aligning foreign investment with the nation's economic development goals and social priorities.

The remarks underscore a broader shift in investment policy discussions, where traditional metrics such as capital inflows are being complemented by measures of social and economic impact on the local workforce.