Malaysia’s economy will continue to struggle this year and in 2017, as foreseen in a survey conducted by the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM).

Among the reasons cited for the pessimistic economic outlook are new government policies; the increase in operating costs and prices of raw materials; domestic competition and the drop in foreign and domestic demand.

Released today, the survey, which analysed Malaysia’s economic situation for the second half of 2015, however expects the nation’s economy to improve in 2018.