Despite growing concern over environmental issues and the sustainability of economic growth, industrialization is still generally associated with progress and development. This is particularly true of developing countries where industrialization is often the nation's top priority. Industrializing Malaysia presents a critical analysis of the experience of industrialization in Malaysia, examining the role, impact and efficacy of post-independence industrialization policies. The author refocuses attention on some major intended as well as unintended implications and consequences of policies and performance. A wide range of issues is covered: in addition to general historical commentaries and sectoral studies, there are analyses of direct foreign investment, technology, linkages, free trade zones, industrial estates, and rural development.