The Insap-led networking session gathered business leaders and industry players from Malaysia and Russia in Kuala Lumpur. — Photos: AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star
LOCAL industry players explored opportunities and forged ties with Russian business personnel as well as policymakers through a networking session in Kuala Lumpur.
The session was hosted by the Institute of Strategic Analysis and Policy Research (Insap) in conjunction with the 15th Asian Conference 2024 of the Valdai Discussion Club.
Insap chairman Datuk Dr Pamela Yong said the session aimed at providing a casual platform alongside the conference to enhance bilateral ties between Malaysia and Russia.
Chay is glad for the chance to connect with Russian leaders in technology, industry and trade.
“Sometimes, conferences have limitations in terms of who can or cannot attend and the topics that can be discussed.
“These are normally for those who are interested in academic conversations.
“Hence, through this networking session, we hope to gather business leaders and industry players from Malaysia, and Russia to explore what we can offer each other in a casual manner.
“It can help them understand each other’s needs as well as the gaps and challenges in each other’s markets,” she explained.
Dr Yong says the session helps guests understand each other’s needs.
The session, which was held at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, was attended by around 70 people.
This included delegates from the Valdai Discussion Club, a delegation of businessmen and policymakers from Russia and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation as well as the Malaysian business community.
Real estate negotiator Benjamin Chay, who was present, said the session allowed him to understand the needs and demands of the Russian market.
“Russia used to have a closed system,” he said.
“Other factors such as wars have also limited my understanding of the country.
“This session allows local businesses here to connect with those from various fields including technology, industry and trade.”
Cosmic Ecotech Sdn Bhd business development manager CK Lee said his main takeaway was the establishment of trust.
Chia says the session helped him gain an understanding of the Russian market.
“I met Russian Embassy officers and our conversation was constructive,” he said.
“It was quite difficult for us to build connections with Russian businesses but thanks to this session, we are able to foster mutual trust and understanding on how we can help each other in filling the gaps in our markets.”
Awise Capital Sdn Bhd co-founder Wayne Chia said the session enabled him to expand his business to the Russian market.
“For example, halal consultancy is one of my company’s focus areas.
“With more understanding of Russia, we can explore possibilities of expanding the halal market there,” he said.
