MayCham steps up efforts to attract GCC-China investment ahead of Asean summit
BEIJING: The Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China (MayCham) is stepping up efforts to strengthen ties with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations and China, viewing the upcoming Asean-GCC-China Summit as a timely platform to position Malaysia as a key investment destination in Southeast Asia.
MayCham chairman Loh Wee Keng said the summit, scheduled for May 27, comes at a critical time for Malaysia to boost its global economic presence by aligning more closely with regional, Gulf and Chinese partners.
"Malaysia is a small country. If we work alone, our voice will not be heard. But through ASEAN and GCC cooperation, as well as alignment with China, this summit offers a unique opportunity for Malaysia to step into a more strategic role on the global stage," he told Bernama recently.
He said the current global economic slowdown, particularly in Europe and the United States, underscores the need to tap capital from the Middle East, which remains a strong source of investment.
"Asean-GCC-China collaboration is becoming increasingly relevant. The summit is a timely forum for Malaysia to showcase its growth-ready industries — from green energy to high technology, halal manufacturing and infrastructure.
"With MayCham's established presence in both China and Malaysia, we are in a good position to bridge investor interest from the GCC region," said Loh.
He noted that MayCham has actively cultivated relationships with Middle Eastern government agencies and corporates operating in China, and continues to advocate for Malaysia as a competitive, stable and strategically located investment hub.
"Whenever we engage with Middle Eastern or Chinese investors in China, we make it a point to introduce investment opportunities in Malaysia. We also organise targeted investment roadshows and facilitate on-ground visits for market surveys and business matching," he said.
Loh said MayCham's role as a business chamber goes beyond networking — it serves as a strategic facilitator in unlocking trade and investment flows by identifying investor needs and matching them with Malaysia's policy frameworks and sector strengths.
"Going forward, MayCham will continue to play our part in reinforcing economic diplomacy. Our focus is clear — deepen ties, identify opportunities and channel investments into Malaysia and the wider Asean region," Loh added.
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