KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 20 — US companies in Malaysia expect to expand businesses here, as well as increase the workforce within the next two years, according to a survey by the American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM) released today.

The survey that polled 475 senior executives from US companies operating in southeast Asia was conducted between May 10 and June 10 this year.

"Positive sentiments are reflected in that 59 percent of those polled expect profits to increase in the local economy this year and 78 per cent expect increased profits in 2014," AMCHAM president and chief executive officer of Citibank Sanjeev Nanavati told reporters here.

As many as 75 per cent of the respondents said they plan to grow their businesses here, while 72 per cent expect to increase their work force next year, the survey found.

"The survey has shown Malaysia's recurring strengths in local infrastructure, ease of financing, and ease of doing business.

"In addition, ease of moving products through customs has increased by 17 percent since 2012, which reflects increased ease in doing business," Sanjeev said.

The survey also noted that 97 per cent of US companies in Malaysia — the highest percentage of the countries polled — said they did not face any significant financing constraints here.

Ninety-four percent of the respondents said their companies in Malaysia are not facing higher borrowing costs.