One for the album: (From left) Ch’ng, Chu, Teo, SME Corp Malaysia chief executive officer Rizal Nainy, PKT Logistics Group chief executive and managing director Datuk Seri Michael Tio, Mak, Noor Afifah, Chan, Jai Shankar, Star Media Group chief business officer Lydia Wang, Yazrin, Hou and Qiu at the launch of the EEA 2024. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The fifth edition of the prestigious Export Excellence Awards (EEA) is now officially launched, marking a significant milestone in recognising and celebrating Malaysia’s most dynamic exporters.
The EEA is organised by Star Media Group in partnership with Standard Chartered Malaysia, with PKT Logistics Group as a co-sponsor, and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) as patron. It is audited by BDO.
At the launch held in EQ Kuala Lumpur, Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said entrepreneurs play a key role in shaping Malaysia’s economic growth.
“Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) constitute approximately 1.1 million companies nationwide or 97.6% of the total enterprises in Malaysia, all of which contribute significantly to the country’s economic performance.
“Recognising their potential, we remain committed to providing a holistic and conducive entrepreneurial ecosystem to foster the growth of local entrepreneurs and co-operatives in both domestic and international markets,” he said in his keynote address.
His speech was read by the ministry’s deputy secretary-general (policy and monitoring), Noor Afifah Abdul Razak.
Ewon said they would continue to focus on increasing competitiveness and productivity through the adoption of technology and digitalisation, and ESG practices, for MSMEs to be more agile and future-proof.
“These will help in strengthening their presence in the value chain of large companies and MNCs, as well as facilitating MSMEs’ entry to global markets,” he added.
The EEA – themed Growing Beyond Borders – takes on added significance this year with a specially curated line-up of panel discussions, Global Navigator Series (GNS), as the global market landscape continues to evolve, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses aiming to expand beyond borders.
The series will unite industry experts, thought leaders and exporters to explore critical topics such as market entry strategies, global trade trends, and regulatory challenges.
The first GNS, held immediately after the launch, featured panellists discussing strategies for navigating the Chinese market.
They were Matrade Hong Kong trade commissioner Yazrin Syakhairi Mahlan, Guangdong Tianding E-commerce Co Ltd president and chief executive officer Steven Hou, Vepro Group Sdn Bhd director Chu Chee Seng, Standard Chartered China’s SME Banking transaction and treasury management head Jackson Qiu and CAIQ Biosecurity Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Dr Ch’ng Soo Ee with Matrade senior director Jai Shankar Suppayah as moderator.
Hernan Corporation Sdn Bhd founder and group chief executive officer Datuk Anna Teo had her own sharing session on her experience exporting to China after the panel discussion.
It is incredibly fitting to feature China as the first export country as part of the series, as it has been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2019, said Standard Chartered Malaysia chief executive officer Mak Joon Nien, stressing China’s importance in today’s global trade landscape.
“As one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, China is on track to surpass the GDP of the United States and the G7 countries between 2035 and 2050, positioning itself as the largest global economy.
“Beyond trade, China’s collaboration with Malaysia in sectors like infrastructure, agriculture and tourism such as durian exports as well as the influx of Chinese tourists, ranging from 1.5 to 2 million annually, further underscores China’s role as a critical partner.
“As the world shifts towards a multi-polar economic landscape, China’s role as a key driver of global growth and trade becomes increasingly pivotal,” highlighted Mak, who also reminded local exporters to seize strategic opportunities that the Chinese market offers.
Star Media Group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said that they believe the inaugural GNS will be a cornerstone for Malaysian businesses seeking to broaden their horizons and navigate the complexities of international trade.
“Through this platform, we aim to empower our exporters with the right knowledge, skills and tools they need to thrive in the global marketplace.
“Together, let us continue to push the boundaries, drive Malaysia’s economic growth and reinforce our nation’s position as a formidable global player. I am confident that through our collective efforts, we will achieve even greater heights,” said Chan.
Submissions for the EEA 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.
