Ong will share valuable insights into the challenges Malaysian exporters face in reaching US buyers.
PETALING JAYA: Expanding into the US market presents immense opportunities for Malaysian businesses, but sustaining long-term success requires evolving strategies, financial resilience and efficient logistics management.
The Global Navigator Series (GNS), scheduled for Jan 7, 2025, at St Giles Wembley, Penang, will host a panel discussion titled “Sustaining Success: Evolving Strategies for Long-Term US Market Growth”.
The session will feature industry leaders who will provide attendees with a comprehensive perspective on thriving in the competitive US market.
Moderating the discussion will be Andrew Chan, director of the Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA).
In addition to overseeing MSIA’s activities, events and programmes, Chan serves as a member of Special Task Force to Facilitate Business (Pemudah), which acts as a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the government and businesses to identify and resolve issues that impede business growth and development.
With prior experience at Gamuda Bhd
, IBM and PwC, Chan brings a wealth of expertise to the role. He is also a Fellow Chartered Accountant with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales.
Chan will be joined by panelist Siti Azlina, Malaysia External Trade Development Corp’s (Matrade) deputy director for electrical and electronics, ICT, machinery and equipment section, who has over 20 years of experience in strategic planning, export promotion, and international collaborations.
Having worked in Matrade offices in Manila, Milan and New York, she has developed a comprehensive understanding of global trade dynamics. Her expertise spans industries such as electrical and electronics (E&E), ICT and Machinery and Equipment.
In the discussion, she will highlight opportunities in the US market, particularly in high-growth sectors like E&E and ICT, and share best practices for Malaysian exporters to succeed in these competitive fields.
Tan Wan Yean, Standard Chartered Malaysia’s regional head for SME Banking in North and East Malaysia, plays a crucial role in equipping SMEs with financial tools to succeed in international markets.
He brings over 15 years of experience in commercial and SME banking, specialising in cross-border trade, working capital financing, cash management, foreign exchange and trade solutions.
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and a Graduate Diploma in Finance from The London School of Economics.
During the panel session, Tan will discuss financial tools that can support SMEs in expanding into the US market, highlight common financing pitfalls and offer practical advice to ensure long-term growth.
With over two decades of expertise in logistics and global supply chain management, Ong Chin Keong, director of Transcargo Worldwide (M) Sdn Bhd, will share valuable insights into the challenges Malaysian exporters face in reaching US buyers, particularly in today’s volatile trade environment.
In his capacity as director, he plays a key role in expanding the company’s logistics network, enhancing its ability to connect Malaysian exporters with global markets, which makes his insights especially valuable for businesses aiming to scale internationally.
Ong will discuss key logistical priorities for ensuring efficient, compliant and cost-effective delivery to the United States, while sharing strategies to optimise supply chains amid disruptions.
The panel discussion will also feature Tina Jamaluddin, chief representative for Malaysia at the US-Asean Business Council, Inc, who acts as a key liaison between the council, the Malaysian government, the private sector and the US diplomatic mission.
Since 2018, she has facilitated strategic dialogues and addressed policy issues to support member companies navigating trade in Malaysia and Asean.
With over 20 years of experience in business development, government relations and international trade, Tina brings valuable insights into driving strategic trade initiatives.
During the session, she will discuss US-Asean trade dynamics, key US policies and strategies for Malaysian exporters to navigate regulations, explore niche opportunities like the halal market and fostering public-private collaboration.
In addition, a fireside chat with Standard Chartered Malaysia chief executive officer Mak Joon Nien and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow will explore Penang’s unique advantages for exporters.
Following this, Jonathan Koh, economist and foreign-exchange analyst in Asia for Standard Chartered Singapore, will provide insights on the “US & Malaysia’s Macroeconomic Outlook 2025” and its implications for trade, investments and foreign exchange.
The event will conclude with a presentation by Nurdiana Abdullah, Matrade’s deputy director of market development and former trade commissioner to Paris, New York and London.
Join the Global Navigator Series
An initiative by the Export Excellence Awards (EEA) 2024, the GNS will be held at St Giles Wembley, Penang on Jan 7, 2025 at 2pm.
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 Feb 13, 2025.
For more information on EEA 2024, go to exportawards.com.my or email eea@thestar.com.my.
Ong will share valuable insights into the challenges Malaysian exporters face in reaching US buyers.
Tina will discuss US-Asean trade dynamics, key US policies and strategies for Malaysian exporters to navigate regulations.
Siti Azlina will highlight opportunities in the US market, particularly in high-growth sectors like E&E and ICT.
Tan will discuss financial tools that can support SMEs in expanding into the US market and highlight common financing pitfalls.
Chan serves as a member of Pemudah in addition to overseeing MSIA’s activities, events and programmes.
