Central Asian Business Delegation Visits Malaysia to Explore Opportunities in South East Asian Region

KUALA LUMPUR, October 21, 2023 – A high-profile delegation of prominent businessmen from Central Asian countries, including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, and also Russia, has arrived in Malaysia for a week-long visit aimed at strengthening economic ties and exploring investment opportunities in the region. Malaysia, due to its strategic location and well-developed infrastructure, indeed serves as a gateway, a vital link in connecting business between Central Asia and Southeast Asia.

Organized in collaboration and networking with Malaysian government agencies MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority) and MATRADE (Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation), the visit has attracted significant attention from key players in Malaysia’s business landscape, including Invest Selangor Berhad, Berjaya Group Berhad, Maxis Communications Berhad, business leaders, and chambers of commerce – The Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI), Malaysia Fujian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MFCCI) and Penang Chinese Chamber Of Commerce (PCCC), said Tan Lin Chung, CEO of CAG (M) Sdn Bhd. Special thanks for the support and guidance of H.E. Ardasher Qodiri, Ambassador of Tajikistan in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.

The primary focus of this delegation’s visit is to gain insights into the promotion and procurement of Malaysian-made products, with a special emphasis on halal products and Islamic banking sectors. These sectors have experienced remarkable growth and global recognition for their adherence to Islamic principles and standards, said Saidmurod Davlatov, Chairman of UDI Group from Tajikistan.

The Central Asian delegation is particularly interested in understanding the strategies and methods employed by Malaysia to become a global leader in the production and export of halal products. Malaysia’s experience in developing a robust halal ecosystem, including certification, logistics, and international market access, has made it a model for countries seeking to expand in the halal industry.

Moreover, the delegation aims to explore the Islamic finance sector, including various financing methods with Shariah compliance. Malaysia’s Islamic banking industry has been a pioneer in the development of Shariah-compliant financial products and services, and the delegation seeks to learn from its success and potentially collaborate on new ventures.

In addition to economic opportunities, the delegation represented by members of diverse industries is also interested in investing in Malaysia’s manufacturing and services sectors. The country’s strategic location, skilled workforce, and supportive government policies have made it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand in Malaysia.

This visit represents a significant step in strengthening economic cooperation between Central Asian countries with Malaysia and entire South East Asia. It also demonstrates Malaysia’s commitment to fostering trade and investment partnerships with countries that share similar values.

The Central Asian business delegation’s visit is expected to result in this exchange of knowledge and expertise is set to benefit all parties involved and promote economic growth and development in the participating regions.