Talk by Prof Amir Lebdioui - Resource-Based Industrialisation and Economic Diversification

How far can Malaysia diversify?

On 7 October 2026, KRI hosted a Roundtable Discussion with Prof Amir Lebdioui, Associate Professor and Director at TIDE, University of Oxford, on resource-based industrialisation and economic diversification. The discussion explored Malaysia’s experience with economic diversification and the role of industrial policy in supporting this development over time.

Prof Amir mentioned that Malaysia’s development has not been linear and requires the country to adapt as new challenges emerge. He described this as "expecting to be punched in the face", where policies need to respond to changing conditions. Using data centres as an example, he also raised questions around their growing demand for electricity and water, as well as what this means for Malaysia’s future industrial development.

The discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining continuity in industrial policy while adapting its approaches to new economic and environmental challenges.