Munirah: Integrating technology to create resilient communities is a crucial factor.
GIVEN the rapid economic growth and increasing market potential of Asean, many established exporters are looking to capitalise on these opportunities.
However, navigating the diverse regulatory landscape, cultural nuances, and competitive dynamics within the region can be challenging.
For businesses looking to learn more about the strategies in manoeuvering this dynamic hub of global trade, industry leaders Datuk Munirah Looi, Alan Ng and Mazlan Harun will be offering valuable perspectives on how established exporters can thrive in the region at the Global Navigator Series (GNS) Johor edition.
An initiative of the Export Excellence Awards (EEA) 2024 programme, the GNS will feature a panel discussion titled “Thriving in Asean: Expert Strategies for Established Exporters”.
As the founder and chief executive officer of Brandt Business Services, Munirah specialises in digital transformation and customer management through cutting-edge technologies like robotic process automation or RPA and artificial intelligence.
Her leadership extends to MyDigital Corp, where she drives initiatives under the Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint and National 4IR Policy.
Munirah also champions ethical investment and sustainable development. She is a director at BlueOnion, a financial technology organisation focused on fostering sustainability within financial ecosystems.
Her work integrates technology and resources to create resilient communities that can adapt to evolving economic and environmental landscapes.
Munirah will share insights on overcoming export challenges in Asean, focusing on regulatory navigation, cultural adaptation and sustainable growth strategies.
Ng: Driving growth and innovation in trade finance offerings for SMEs is key.
Ng, who serves as the Standard Chartered Singapore trade for global business banking head, contributes over 26 years of experience in international trade finance.
He offers expert strategies for navigating trade financing in Asean’s diverse markets, helping exporters understand the region’s regulatory frameworks and trade agreements.
His career has spanned key markets, including Singapore, Taiwan and Vietnam, where he has held leadership roles in relationship management.
Since joining the bank in 2024, Ng has been tasked with leading the trade business for SME Banking.
In this capacity, he provides strategic vision and direction, driving growth and innovation in the bank’s trade finance offerings for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
His deep expertise and leadership play a crucial role in shaping the bank’s approach to supporting SMEs in navigating the complexities of global trade.
Mazlan, the director of Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) China and Northeast Asia and Asean and Oceania Section, will provide key insights into government-backed export initiatives and market access strategies.
With over two decades of experience in promoting Malaysia’s trade interests, Mazlan noted the importance of adapting products and services to local market needs.
Mazlan: It is important to adapt products and services to local market needs.
Within Matrade’s headquarters, Mazlan has served across several key divisions, including Market Access and Export Promotion, Exporters Development, Management Services and the northern regional office in Penang.
His deep understanding of Asean economies, combined with his extensive international experience, makes him a valuable resource for exporters seeking to expand their reach.
Furthermore, Mazlan will also discuss future trade opportunities for Malaysian exporters, focusing on emerging trends and growth areas in Asean over the next five to 10 years.
Join the GNS
The GNS will be held at St Giles Southkey, Johor Baru on Oct 21, 2024 at 9.30am.
In addition to the panel discussion, there will be a fireside chat exploring how to position Malaysia as a leading regional export hub.
The EEA 2024 is organised by Star Media Group in partnership with Standard Chartered Malaysia, and PKT Logistics Group as a co-sponsor, and Matrade as patron. It is audited by BDO.
Submissions for the awards programme are also open from now until Jan 17, 2025.
For more information on EEA 2024, go to exportawards.com.my or email eea@thestar.com.my.
