Jakarta:Malaysia has once again emerged as the leading foreign investor in Indonesia's Banten province, contributing Rp43 trillion or RM9.81 billion in investments between 2023 and 2025.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Minister Counsellor (Economy) at the Malaysian Embassy in Jakarta, Ahmad Akmal Muhamad, stated that 174 Malaysian companies are currently operating in the province. This significant presence is attributed to a well-developed industrial ecosystem, integrated logistics connectivity, supportive provincial government, and proactive investment authorities.
Malaysia's role as a major investor was recognized at the Banten Investment Forum 2026, where the country received a Strategic Partner Appreciation award for its contributions to the province's economic development. Ahmad Akmal highlighted Malaysia’s status as Banten's largest foreign investor during the three-year period, outpacing Singapore and Japan.
The province supports Malaysian businesses through three major industrial areas the petrochemical and heavy industry corridor in Cilegon and western Serang, the diversified manufacturing and logistics corridor in Serang Regency, and the high-technology and digital innovation zone in Tangerang.
In 2022, Malaysia also led as Banten's largest foreign investor, with Rp17.31 trillion in realized investments. Banten, situated at the western tip of Java, covers approximately 9,356 square kilometers and serves as a vital link between Java and Sumatra.
The province is home to 21 industrial estates and two special economic zones. Its industrial base includes sectors like steel, petrochemicals, chemicals, and food processing, supported by port infrastructure such as Ciwandan Port, which handles varied cargo. The Merak-Bakauheni ferry crossing is a crucial transport corridor for the region.
According to data from February 2, Banten's merchandise trade in 2025 reached approximately US$51.93 billion, comprising US$13.01 billion in exports and US$38.92 billion in imports, marking respective increases of 6.66 percent and 1.62 percent from the previous year.