Eurocham strengthens EU-Malaysia trade ties with honorary council establishment

Eurocham strengthens EU-Malaysia trade ties with honorary council establishment

24 Sep 2021

EurochamMalaysia has established the Honorary Council of Advisors (HCA) to provide advice, assistance and support in facilitating EU-Malaysia business and government relations as well as strengthening trade and investment ties. 

European Union (EU) ambassador and head delegation in Malaysia Michalis Rokas said the delegation’s task is aligned with the EU’s diplomatic mission — to promote closer ties between the EU and Malaysia. 

“This is by providing an efficient and reliable communication channel between the EU and Malaysian authorities and businesses. 

“Eurocham has created an effective and efficient way for the EU delegation to be part of the council by providing advice, assistance and support in facilitating strong diplomatic and economic EU-Malaysia relations,” Michalis said at the HCA meeting yesterday. 

The founding council members present at the meeting include CIMB South-East Asia Research Sdn Bhd chairman Tan Sri Dr Munir Majid, DM Analytics Malaysia MD Dr Muhammed Abdul Khalid and Siemens Malaysia president and CEO Adam Yee. 

Dr Munir said Malaysia remains an attractive destination for foreign direct investment despite the many challenges the country currently faces. 

“Malaysia needs to push for progress in attracting foreign direct investment, particularly investors from the EU which makes this council a great platform to expedite continuous engagement and dialogues with the proper channels to support the mission and vision of Eurocham,” Munir said. 

Meanwhile, Muhammed, who is also the former economic advisor to former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Muhamad, said the current challenging domestic and external economic environment is imperative for Malaysia. 

“This is to ensure investment policies are conducive and investment relations are strengthened to boost inclusive and sustainable growth, and create jobs,” Muhammed said. 

On the other hand, Yee said Siemens is committed to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and companies to transform their business operation competitively in line with the advancement of technology. 

“More manufacturing industries need to embrace IR4.0 and we hope to vigorously support the local SMEs in their digital adoption. 

“Together with Eurocham and the formation of the HCA, I believe we are able to help push forward this initiative for the benefit of the industry as well as the business community,” Yee said. 

For the upcoming HCA meeting, Eurocham will introduce projects, programmes and topics to address together through its platform, while utilising the expertise and knowledge of all advisors for the benefit of stronger EU-Malaysia relations. 

Source: The Malaysian Reserve