Important event: Dr Wee announcing the upcoming 5th World Association Presidents Conference (WAPC) at a press conference at Wisma MCA in Kuala Lumpur. With him are Abdul Majid on his right and Liu on his left, as well as the other guests. — ONG SOON HIN /The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: The upcoming 5th World Association Presidents Conference (WAPC), to be hosted by Malaysia for the first time outside of China, is a comprehensive platform for Chinese investors to gain an in-depth understanding of Malaysia’s economic landscape, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.
Highlighting the event’s strategic importance, the MCA president said the conference would offer budding investors a clearer vision of the opportunities awaiting them in Malaysia.
“The participation of Malaysia’s top government officials, including two deputy prime ministers, four ministers, and several state leaders, underscores Malaysia’s commitment to fostering investment and collaboration.
“The presence of our high-ranking officials will provide greater insights into Malaysia’s open economic policies and emerging sectors that are ripe for investment,” he said here yesterday.
Co-hosted by the MCA, the Malaysia-China Friendship Association (MCFA) and the China Enterprises Chamber of Commerce (CECC), the event will be held at Wisma MCA, Kuala Lumpur on Dec 2 and 3.
Also present at the press conference were MCFA president Datuk Abdul Majid Ahmad Khan, CECC president Ni Qingjiu, conference organising chairman Liu Jiang and a host of party leaders and guests.
Themed “Promoting Trade Liberalisation, Driving Economic Globalisation”, the conference will gather around 700 leaders and entrepreneurs from the country and abroad.
“Some highlights of the conference include diverse forums covering digital economy, green energy, biotechnology and industrial park development.
“These sessions will facilitate learning and collaboration between Malaysian and Chinese enterprises. The event has strong support from the Malaysian government, with invitations extended to high-profile officials including two deputy prime ministers and several ministers.”
Dr Wee said the key highlight of the conference will be a presentation by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who will outline Malaysia’s most promising industries and future economic direction over the next two decades.
“As the keynote speaker, Tengku Zafrul will present the topic “Invest in Malaysia, Look to the World”.
“Other forums include topics such as ‘Technological Innovation, Innovative Economy’; ‘Trade Opportunities, Unlimited Potential’; and ‘50 Years of Diplomatic Relations, Steady Development’ with leading figures from the government and business sectors sharing insights with attendees.”
He added that closed-door roundtable sessions and business matchmaking meetings will be held, focusing on areas such as education and training, healthcare, food and agriculture, digital economy, culture, tourism and arts, green energy, halal industry, real estate management, electronics and appliances.
Dr Wee added that attendees will also benefit from discussions led by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang focusing on Malaysia’s advancement in high-tech industries, and presentations by state leaders, such as from Johor, detailing new policies in the Malaysia-Singapore region.
“The conference will further delve into the Malaysia My Second Home programme which has generated interest among Chinese nationals seeking residency options.”
Stressing Malaysia’s welcoming stance and policies, Dr Wee also highlighted Malaysia’s vibrant connection with global markets, particularly the US$3 trillion (RM12.97 trillion) halal market, where significant opportunities await international investors.
Dr Wee said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who will open the conference, had expressed huge interest in hosting the conference during their recent work visit to Shanghai, China.
“Our Deputy Prime Minister felt that the conference is of great significance in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China this year.
“He promised to personally attend the conference to meet and exchange views with business association leaders from around the world.
“He is also hosting a gala dinner for the Chinese delegates for the anniversary celebration,” said Dr Wee.
He said the landmark international event aims to celebrate diplomatic relations with China and pave the way for deeper bilateral cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
“The conference is poised to be a pivotal international vent for fostering long-term economic partnerships between Malaysia and China,” he added.
