The Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) is pleased to publish the findings of the 25th biannual survey of business conditions in the manufacturing sector for the first half of 2024 (1H2024). The findings were successfully released to the media via a press conference on September 2, 2024. We are pleased to enclose a copy of the survey findings for your reference and record.
The survey revealed that Malaysian manufacturing sector has delivered a commendable performance in the first half of 2024, showcasing resilience in a challenging global environment. Despite facing headwinds such as inflationary pressures, volatile demand and global uncertainties, the sector has managed to sustain stability:
- The general business activity index increased by 4.49% in the first half of 2024, reflecting continued stability and improving sentiment within the manufacturing sector. From 89 points in 2H2023 to 93 in 1H2024, this is the Index’s second consecutive increase since 1H2023.This moderate growth can be attributed to steady demand from abroad, despite global economic uncertainties.
- The local sales index declined 5.81% to 81 from 86 previously, indicating weaker domestic demand in 1H2024. Rising inflation and the increased cost of living have dampened consumer spending, while higher borrowing costs have further constrained purchasing power.
- In contrast, export sales index rose five points from 2H2023 to 85 in 1H2024, driven by favourable demand from international markets. Malaysian manufacturers have benefited from a recovering, albeit uncertain, global economy, particularly in key export sectors such as electronics and electrical products
- Production volume index, at 91, remained unchanged in the first six months of 2024, indicating that respondents have maintained consistent output levels. This stability reflects a balanced approach to managing production capacity in line with demand.
- Capacity utilisation index rose two points to 93 in 1H2024, suggesting that respondents are using their production capabilities more efficiently. The rise in capacity utilisation is likely driven by steady demand, particularly from export markets, and ongoing investments in technology and energy-efficient practices
- Cost of production index picked up a point to stand at 155 in 1H2024, reflecting ongoing inflationary pressures. Rising raw material and energy costs, coupled with higher wages, may have contributed to this modest rise. Despite these challenges, respondents are likely controlling costs through efficiency improvements and strategic investments in technology, helping to limit the overall increase in production expenses.
- Capital investment index rose four points to 107 in 1H2024, indicating continued confidence in the sector’s growth prospects. Respondents may be investing in advanced technologies, automation and energy-efficient infrastructure to enhance productivity and competitiveness. This rise in capital investment, despite higher borrowing costs, underscores the sector’s commitment to long-term growth and modernisation.
- The employment index remained stable at 98, with no change in employment levels in 1H2024. With 67% of respondents putting hiring and retrenchment on hold for now, they are clearly prioritising employee retention and, likely, training, ensuring that their workforce is equipped to handle advanced technologies and maintain productivity without significant workforce expansion.
Looking ahead to the second half of 2024, the sector is poised for continued growth, bolstered by a global economic recovery and supportive domestic policies. Manufacturers are gearing up to meet rising demand, both domestically and internationally. However, the sector remains cognisant of rising production costs and is taking a measured approach to workforce expansion. This reflects a balanced strategy, combining optimism with prudent risk management as the sector navigates the complexities of a dynamic global economy.
- The expected general business activity Index rose significantly from 92 to 106, reflecting increased confidence among respondents. This optimism is driven by global economic recovery, particularly in key export markets like the U.S. and Europe, as well as supportive domestic policies that are fostering industrial growth.
- The expected local sales index saw a modest increase from 92 to 95, indicating cautious optimism about domestic demand. This rise is underpinned by a recovering domestic economy and improved consumer confidence.
- The expected export sales index jumped from 89 to 100, highlighting strong expectations for international demand. Factors such as a recovery in global markets and Malaysia’s strategic trade agreements may have bolstered respondents’ confidence in their export prospects. 26% and 27% are looking forward to higher and lower sales abroad in 2H2024, respectively.
- The expected production volume index increased from 99 to 110, reflecting respondents' plans to ramp up production in response to rising demand. Improved global supply chains, increased capital investment and a favourable economic outlook are likely the key drivers behind this growth.
- The expected capacity utilisation index rose from 99 to 108, indicating that respondents expect to operate closer to full capacity. This increase is linked to stronger demand, especially from abroad, as well as technological advancements that are enhancing production efficiency.
- The expected cost of production index increased slightly from 159 to 162, reflecting ongoing inflationary pressures. Rising costs for raw materials, energy and labour continue to challenge respondents, although the rate of increase has moderated somewhat due to stabilising supply chains. The increase is anticipated by 66% of respondents in 2H2024.
- The expected capital investment index climbed from 110 to 116, showing respondents’ commitment to expanding their production capabilities.
- The expected employment index remained stable at 105, indicating that respondents do not anticipate significant changes in workforce levels. This stability suggests a focus on productivity improvements and cost management rather than expanding headcount, despite the sector’s overall positive outlook.
Topical issues covered in the survey revealed the following key findings:
- Manufacturers face a mixed outlook for revenue growth in 2024, balancing optimism with caution in a challenging economic setting. 50% of respondents expect revenue growth.
- In 2024, manufacturers express cautious optimism about profit growth, tempered by rising costs and market volatility. 42% of respondents expect profit increases, supported by global economic recovery and operational efficiency improvements.
- Business confidence outlook: cautious yet optimistic, balanced by concerns over potential economic challenges
- Top 5 challenges to business operations and growth in 2H2024: weak demand, rising input costs, ringgit depreciation, increasing competition, expansion of customer base and geopolitical risks
- Top 5 opportunities to business operations and growth in 2H2024: expansion of product portfolio, export diversification, value-chain opportunities associated with ESG targets, leverage on digital transformation and rebound in activity
- 57% support a moderate increase in the minimum wage to RM1,600
- Over the past five years, businesses have cautiously invested in automation, focusing more on hardware than software
- There is significant interest in smart factory transformation, with 68% of businesses expressing a positive response. However, 32% are not interested, mainly due to financial constraints (59% respondents) and concerns about the overall cost impact (51%).
- 36% of respondents expect the Ringgit exchange rate against the US Dollar at 4.5 and 4.55 by year end 2024
- The implementation of the 6% service tax on logistics has significantly impacted manufacturing costs, with 90% of respondents reporting an increase. For 52% of these respondents, the cost rise was between 1%-3%, suggesting the tax is manageable for many.
- A majority of respondents (88%) reported not supplying to the government, indicating barriers to entry or challenges in the procurement process.
- Budget 2025 top 5 key priorities: corporate tax reduction, tax and ESG incentives, talent development, energy cost control and reintroduction of GST
FMM would like to thank all members who took the time to respond and give their valuable feedback. The next survey would be in December 2024/January 2025. FMM members’ support and continued participation would ensure that the Business Conditions Index (BCI) is representative and an accurate monitor of business condition trends in the manufacturing sector.
Click here to download Circular GI/20/2024 & FMM Business Conditions Survey 1H2024 Report
Enquiries: Puan Hema Thiruchelvam / Puan Nurhafizah Ngatiran / Puan Kamsiah A
Rahim, Business Environment Division at Tel: 03-6286 7200 or e-mail: Business_Environment@fmm.org.my