Penang and Johor Dominate Malaysia’s Exports in April 2026

Kuala Lumpur, 26 May 2026 — Pulau Pinang and Johor continue to lead Malaysia’s export performance, reinforcing their positions as the country’s top exporting states.

According to the latest trade statistics released by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM), Penang maintained its position as the nation’s largest exporter in April, followed closely by Johor.

Penang contributed the highest share of national exports, driven primarily by the strong performance of the Electrical & Electronics (E&E) sector, which remains the backbone of the state’s economy. Johor also recorded impressive export figures, benefiting from its strategic location and diverse manufacturing base.

In April, Malaysia’s overall trade performance stayed resilient despite global economic uncertainties. The two states together accounted for a significant portion of the country’s total export value.

“Penang and Johor have once again proven their strength as the main engines of Malaysia’s export growth,” said an industry analyst. “Their dominance reflects the robust manufacturing ecosystems and attractive investment environment in both states.”

Key Highlights for April 2026:

• Pulau Pinang — Remained the top exporting state with strong contributions from semiconductors, medical devices, and electronic components.
• Johor — Solidified its position as the second-largest exporter while also leading in import value, thanks to its role as a major logistics and industrial hub.
• Other notable states included Selangor, Sarawak, and Kuala Lumpur, which also contributed meaningfully to national exports.

The strong showing from Penang and Johor is expected to support Malaysia’s overall economic growth target for 2026, particularly in the manufacturing and trade sectors.

Economists believe that continued investment in high-tech industries, infrastructure development, and talent development in these states will be crucial to sustaining this momentum amid global trade challenges.