American E&E companies contribute significantly to Malaysian economy

KUALA LUMPUR: The contribution by American electrical and electronics (E&E) companies to the Malaysian economy has grown more pronounced since 2014, according to a survey conducted by the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (Amcham).

In a statement yesterday, Amcham said the 31 member companies that responded to the survey were responsible for creating around 80,000 jobs, most of which are held by Malaysians.

“Out of these, 16,500 were for skilled engineers and more than 5,500 workers dedicated specifically to high value-added research, design and development activities,” it said.

Executive director Siobhan M Das said its E&E members had consistently supported the growth and development of Malaysia’s small and medium enterprises.

“On average, each member company in the survey works with 194 suppliers, counting only contracts worth at least RM100,000 per year.

“More than RM12 billion was spent sourcing goods and services locally last year. Furthermore, almost all companies surveyed have active corporate social responsibility programmes with each company contributing up to RM650,000 per year or 150,000 volunteer hours to local community programmes,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysia American Electronics Industry (MAEI) chairman Datuk Wong Siew Hai said the growth of the E&E industry was driven by strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.