Malaysia's top exporters to be honoured tomorrow
The EEA has evolved into a platform that highlights how Malaysian businesses are navigating shifting global dynamics and raising their competitiveness on the world stage.
The panel of eminent judges, drawn from both government and industry, was impressed by the quality and breadth of submissions.
Credit Guarantee Corp Malaysia Bhd bumiputra development and products senior vice-president Mohamed Azman Mohamed Taufik said the calibre of finalists this year stood out, showcasing the country's most innovative and resilient exporters.
'These companies demonstrate cutting-edge solutions, global competitiveness and a commitment to sustainability – reflecting the dynamism of Malaysia's trade sector,' he said.
Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry deputy secretary-general (trade) Mastura Ahmad Mustafa welcomed the diversity of participants.
'I am very happy with the wide range of the finalists, from small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are just embarking on their export journey, to well-developed companies that already have international footing.'
Adding to that, Malaysia External Trade Development Corp (Matrade) strategic planning division senior director Raja Badrulnizam Raja Kamalzaman said sustainability featured prominently in many of the submissions.
'What stands out a lot is their emphasis on adopting sustainable practices in most of their operations, and not only for themselves but also ensuring that suppliers also align with their policies.'
He also underscored the role of innovation in driving long-term growth.
'You cannot stay the same all the time. If you don't innovate, you'll never get ahead of the competition...You have to maintain consistency and quality, and that's the role that innovation should play.'
Drawing from his experience working closely with SMEs, Mohamed Azman highlighted the strengths he observed among this year's shortlisted smaller exporters.
'One common thing that I found out is that they have original solutions – unique products or services they have created that can be commercialised and exported with high global standards.'
Meanwhile, Mastura encouraged companies to step forward and take part in awards like the EEA, noting that the process enables businesses to reflect on their strengths and benchmark themselves against peers.
This year's strong display of resilience and innovation among Malaysian exporters has also been deeply meaningful to Standard Chartered as a cross-border bank supporting the growing trade corridors and ecosystem.
'Reflecting on this year's EEA, I am reminded of our deep-rooted history in Malaysia as its oldest operating bank.
'We have the privilege of growing with this nation for over 150 years, and are now seeing the growth of Malaysian exports in globally competitive high-tech and high value sectors – including halal exports,' said Standard Chartered Saadiq Malaysia chief executive officer (CEO) Bilal Parvaiz.
'In 2024 alone, Malaysia's total exports reached RM1.51 trillion, a 5.7% year-on-year increase, within which halal product exports surged to RM61.79bil, a 15% increase from 2023. This exceptional performance has resulted in a trade surplus of RM136.88bil for the 27th consecutive year since 1998.
'The level of resilience and innovation our Malaysian exporters are showing – especially in the face of ongoing global uncertainties – is nothing short of inspiring.
'Leveraging our global network and local expertise, as well as our Islamic banking arm Standard Chartered Saadiq, we are able to play a pivotal role in supporting exporters through our syariah-compliant products and services to help them scale in fast-growing Islamic trade corridors across Asia, Africa and the Middle East.'
As the organiser of the EEA, Star Media Group Bhd (SMG) has had a front-row seat to Malaysia's evolving trade landscape – and the shift has been unmistakable.
'We take pride in witnessing how Malaysian exporters are evolving – not just to survive global headwinds, but to lead with purpose and agility,' said SMG CEO Chan Seng Fatt.
'In the past year, we've seen a notable shift toward innovation-led growth, ESG integration and a more strategic approach to market expansion. Malaysian exporters are demonstrating a deeper understanding of global standards and long-term competitiveness, which is essential as trade dynamics continue to shift.'
But for SMG, the awards are more than just a moment of recognition.
'At its core, the EEA is not just a ceremony – it is a catalyst for dialogue, knowledge-sharing and long-term growth.
'By bringing together stakeholders from across industries, we aim to spark meaningful conversations on how Malaysian businesses can stay competitive, sustainable and globally connected,' Chan added.
Stay tuned for the announcement of the winners.
The EEA 2024 is organised by SMG in partnership with Standard Chartered Malaysia, with PKT Logistics Group as a co-sponsor and Matrade as patron. It is audited by BDO.
For more information on EEA 2024, go to exportawards.com.my or email eea@thestar.com.my.
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