PM, delegation to use chartered flight for official visits to Italy, France, and Brazil
The prime minister's senior press secretary Tunku Nashrul Abaidah said the decision was made after considering factors such as time savings, cost efficiency, and logistical coordination.
"Why did we opt for a chartered flight instead of a government aircraft? It's due to time savings — given the packed schedule in all three countries without long transits.
"Secondly, the cost is more manageable, as the chartered flight is more economical than operating a full government aircraft. Thirdly, coordination — having both government and business delegates depart and arrive together ensures punctual attendance at all meetings and engagement sessions," he said at the Prime Minister's Office daily briefing today.
Tunku Nashrul added that the government will bear the full cost for the official delegation, while business delegates will fund their own expenses.
"The prime minister will be accompanied by a business delegation comprising corporate giants and innovative Malaysian enterprises.
"Some of these companies already have business operations and interests in Italy, France or Brazil, while others are exploring new investment opportunities to expand their global reach.
"This synergy ensures that government-to-government (G2G) discussions are supported by business-to-business (B2B) cooperation, which in turn opens new markets, strengthens existing operations, and bolsters Malaysia's position in these strategic regions," he said.
He said the business delegation includes representatives from Petronas, Khazanah, Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB), Maybank, FGV Holdings Bhd (FGV), and Weststar.
"So let me emphasise once again — there is no conflict of interest between the government and the business delegation," he added.
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