Critics have rightly questioned the veracity of the government's claim of record foreign direct investment (FDI).

The government claims that Malaysia's FDI in approved manufacturing projects reached RM 20.2 billion, surpassing the RM17.9 billion mark in 2005.

Based on these figures, International Trade and Industry Minister Rafidah Aziz said: "Despite increasing global competition, Malaysia continues to attract foreign outflow, reflecting the country's cost competitiveness as a manufacturing and export base."