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![[UPDATED] PKR yet to discuss Tengku Zafrul's resignation with Umno](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fassets%2FNST-Logo%402x.png%3Fid%3Db37a17055cb1ffea01f5&w=48&q=75){kind=small}
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
[UPDATED] PKR yet to discuss Tengku Zafrul's resignation with Umno
KUALA LUMPUR: PKR has not yet held discussions with its unity government partner, Umno, regarding the resignation of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. Its president and Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the party respects Tengku Zafrul's decision and will consult Umno on the next steps. "Tengku Zafrul is a minister who has carried out his duties well. Many of our investments, worth hundreds of billions, have been managed through his efforts via Matrade, the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) and the current government. "As for his decision to apply (to join PKR), we have not reached that stage yet. Let him complete his Haj first, and there is no need for unhealthy interpretation (regarding his resignation). "(But) of course, for PKR, we must discuss the matter with our partners in the unity government and consider it carefully," he said when met by reporters at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF) 2025 today. Anwar also said that Tengku Zafrul's position as the Investment, Trade and Industry Minister is not affected. "We want him to continue his duties given his strong performance as minister, and the country needs his contribution," he said. When asked about Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's statement that the ministerial post should be allocated to Umno to maintain the party's original quota of seven ministers, Anwar reiterated that "nothing has been discussed." "We have not yet discussed it with the president (Zahid), it is too early for that," he said. On Friday, Tengku Zafrul announced his resignation from all posts in Umno, along with his membership in the party. In announcing his resignation, Tengku Zafrul also expressed his intention to join PKR. He said after much self-reflection and consideration of various factors, he has decided to do so due to "compatibility and suitability." Following this, Zahid said he was not surprised by Tengku Zafrul's announcement to quit Umno and join PKR, as they had discussed the matter during a parliamentary session three months ago. The deputy prime minister, who is also the chairman of Barisan Nasional, however, said it is unethical for any party within the unity government to accept membership applications from former leaders or members of its allies. Zahid said that following Tengku Zafrul's decision to leave the party, the unity government should also allocate another ministerial position to Umno to maintain the original quota of seven ministers previously allocated to the party.
New Straits Times
a day ago
- Politics
- New Straits Times
PKR yet to discuss Tengku Zafrul's resignation with Umno
KUALA LUMPUR: PKR has not yet held discussions with its unity government partner, Umno, regarding the resignation of Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz. Its president and Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the party respects Tengku Zafrul's decision and will discuss with Umno on the next steps. "Tengku Zafrul is a minister who has carried out his duty well. Many of our investments, worth hundreds of billions, have been managed through his efforts via Matrade, the ministry, and the current government. "As for his decision to apply (to join PKR), we have not reached that stage yet. Let him complete his Haj first. Of course, for PKR, we must discuss the matter with our friends in the unity government and consider it carefully," he said when met at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (KLIBF) 2025 today.
Malay Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Matrade supports efforts to achieve RM13b in potential trade and investments at Osaka Expo
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 — The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will be supporting the whole government approach in achieving RM13 billion in potential trade and investments at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan. Malaysia's participation at Expo Osaka which will be held for six months is supported by the participation from 21 federal ministries and around 70 government departments and agencies. Matrade chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz said as the principal agency for advancing global trade opportunities, Matrade will be assisting Malaysian companies enter new markets while also curating high-impact engagements designed to foster purposeful connections, drive investment momentum and elevate Malaysia's leadership in key growth sectors. Anchored by the pavilion's theme, 'Weaving a Future in Harmony' and aligned with the expo's vision to 'Design Future Society for Our Lives', he said Matrade's strategy reflects a forward-looking approach that connects trade with the forces shaping the future. 'In this vision, trade is not separate from innovation or sustainability but part of an interconnected system, so linking people, technology and purpose positions Malaysia as a confident and collaborative contributor to shared global prosperity,' he said in a statement. Mohd Mustafa said that Matrade's role has evolved beyond conventional trade promotion, as relying solely on product showcases and buyer introductions is no longer sufficient in today's dynamic market environment. Hence, he said Matrade's Business Programme embraces a more strategic approach, as global value chains evolve under the pressure of technology and geopolitics. 'Through curated engagements such as sector-specific business matching, thematic seminars, and targeted pitching sessions, the initiative is designed to build meaningful, long-term partnerships. 'With over 270 meetings held in the first month alone and RM488.88 million in sales secured, it demonstrates the impact of a more purposeful, value-led model of engagement,' he said. Meanwhile, Mohd Mustafa said Malaysia's participation at Expo 2025 Osaka comes at a strategically meaningful moment, a point where national ambition meets regional leadership. He said Matrade's approach supports key economic plans like the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Trade Blueprint, aiming to boost innovation, trade competitiveness, and promote high-value exports. This momentum is further amplified by Malaysia's current role as Asean chair in 2025, positioning the country as a unifying voice for regional integration and inclusive growth, he added. 'As the sole agency driving the business programme, Matrade is not merely showcasing Malaysian companies, but actively shaping their strategic positioning in line with broader national and regional ambitions. 'This includes facilitating direct access to key Japanese and global players, particularly in high-potential sectors such as halal, electrical and electronics, green technology, and life sciences,' he said. These engagements form part of a long-term national mission to establish Malaysia as a trusted, innovation-driven trade hub at the heart of the Asia-Pacific. Mohd Mustafa also emphasised that Expo 2025 Osaka is an opportunity for global collaboration in future-forward ideas, with the Malaysia Pavilion reflecting this through its focus on innovation and inclusiveness. He said the expo also offers a timely and symbolic platform to amplify Malaysia's regional voice, strengthen Asean ties, and build momentum for a more resilient and connected global economy. 'Malaysia's economic journey has long been defined by adaptation and ambition, from manufacturing excellence to digital transformation,' he said. Today, as the global economy pivots toward sustainability and innovation, Malaysia's trade diplomacy, led by Matrade, is evolving in step with these shifts. Hence, the Business Programme at Expo 2025 Osaka signals more than presence; it signals intent to collaborate, lead, and unlock the next wave of high-impact trade opportunities, said Matrade. — Bernama
Malay Mail
4 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Malaysia eyes RM13b trade boost through Expo 2025 Osaka participation
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 — The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) aims to unlock RM13 billion worth of potential trade and investments through its participation in the Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan. Its chief executive officer, Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz said Matrade, through the Business Programme at the Malaysia Pavilion, helps local companies enter new markets and create impactful connections to boost investments, while showcasing Malaysia's strengths in key growth sectors. Anchored by the pavilion's theme, 'Weaving a Future in Harmony' and aligned with the expo's vision to 'Design Future Society for Our Lives', he said Matrade's strategy reflects a forward-looking approach that connects trade with the forces shaping the future. 'In this vision, trade is not separate from innovation or sustainability but part of an interconnected system, so linking people, technology and purpose positions Malaysia as a confident and collaborative contributor to shared global prosperity,' he said in a statement today Mohd Mustafa said that Matrade's role has evolved beyond conventional trade promotion, as relying solely on product showcases and buyer introductions is no longer sufficient in today's dynamic market environment. Hence, he said Matrade's Business Programme embraces a more strategic approach, as global value chains evolve under the pressure of technology and geopolitics. 'Through curated engagements such as sector-specific business matching, thematic seminars, and targeted pitching sessions, the initiative is designed to build meaningful, long-term partnerships. 'With over 270 meetings held in the first month alone and RM488.88 million in sales secured, it demonstrates the impact of a more purposeful, value-led model of engagement,' he said. Meanwhile, Mohd Mustafa said Malaysia's participation at Expo 2025 Osaka comes at a strategically meaningful moment, a point where national ambition meets regional leadership. He said Matrade's approach supports key economic plans like the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 and the National Trade Blueprint, aiming to boost innovation, trade competitiveness, and promote high-value exports. This momentum is further amplified by Malaysia's current role as Asean chair in 2025, positioning the country as a unifying voice for regional integration and inclusive growth, he added. 'As the sole agency driving the business programme, Matrade is not merely showcasing Malaysian companies, but actively shaping their strategic positioning in line with broader national and regional ambitions. 'This includes facilitating direct access to key Japanese and global players, particularly in high-potential sectors such as halal, electrical and electronics, green technology, and life sciences,' he said. These engagements form part of a long-term national mission to establish Malaysia as a trusted, innovation-driven trade hub at the heart of the Asia-Pacific. Mohd Mustafa also emphasised that Expo 2025 Osaka is an opportunity for global collaboration in future-forward ideas, with the Malaysia Pavilion reflecting this through its focus on innovation and inclusiveness. He said the expo also offers a timely and symbolic platform to amplify Malaysia's regional voice, strengthen Asean ties, and build momentum for a more resilient and connected global economy. 'Malaysia's economic journey has long been defined by adaptation and ambition, from manufacturing excellence to digital transformation,' he said. Today, as the global economy pivots toward sustainability and innovation, Malaysia's trade diplomacy, led by Matrade, is evolving in step with these shifts. Hence, the Business Programme at Expo 2025 Osaka signals more than presence; it signals intent to collaborate, lead, and unlock the next wave of high-impact trade opportunities, said Matrade. — Bernama
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Business
- Borneo Post
Matrade to host China-Asean Expo in Nanjing this Sept 17-21
Wee (centre), flanked by Mohammad Medan on his right and Xing, in a photo call at the promotional conference. — Photo by Mohd Faisal Ahmad KUCHING (May 29): The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will be hosting the 22nd China-Asean Expo (CAEXPO) from Sept 17-21 in Nanjing, China. For this year's expo, Matrade will focus on organising the participation of 100 high-potential enterprises in six major areas, namely food and beverage; lifestyle; medical health; digital; green energy; and innovative technology, which are in line with the global development trend, said Matrade board member Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah. 'In order to enhance the effectiveness of Malaysia's participation in the 22nd China-Asean Expo, we will hold a number of activities, including precise matchmaking events at the Malaysian National Pavilion, potential buyer selection meetings, and joint live broadcasts with local internet celebrities to promote Malaysian products,' he said at a promotional conference here yesterday. He said the expo has always been an important strategic platform for Malaysia to showcase itself to the world as a strong exporting country, an investment hot spot and vibrant tourism hub. 'CAEXPO brings together 10 Asean countries, China, and other Belt and Road partners to continuously deepen trade exchanges, investment cooperation and regional collaborative development.' He revealed that over 2,000 Malaysian companies have participated in the expo through Matrade since first joining in 2004, with a cumulative export sales exceeding RM66.9 billion. 'Many of these companies have successfully entered the Chinese market, which strongly proves the practical value of this platform,' he said, adding that China has remained Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years since 2009 and currently ranks as the third-largest export market. According to him, bilateral trade between Malaysia and China strongly rebounded in 2024 – achieving a year-on-year growth of 7.5 per cent, accounting for 16.8 per cent of Malaysia's total foreign trade. 'The bilateral trade between Malaysia and China from Jan to April 2025 alone was RM161.98 billion (approximately US$36.47 billion), with exports amounting to RM56.98 billion (approximately US$12.83 billion), driven primarily by electrical and electronic products. 'During the same period, imports from China reached RM105 billion (approximately US$23.64 billion), mainly consisting of intermediate goods,' he said. Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian said China has emerged as one of Sarawak's most important trade and investment partners. 'Our relationship is underpinned by increasing bilateral trade, robust cooperation in infrastructure and development, and consistent people-to-people exchanges that have nurtured a strong foundation of goodwill and shared vision,' he said in his speech read by Kuching South mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng. Dr Sim noted this year's expo signified more than just a gathering of stakeholders, and reflected the enduring spirit of collaboration between Sarawak, Malaysia and China – a relationship that is friendly, vibrant and resilient. 'I encourage China and Sarawakian businesses here to leverage this platform not only to explore emerging markets but to forge new collaborations, cross-border investments, and win-win partnerships,' he said. Also present at the event was Consul-General of the People's Republic of China in Kuching Xing Weiping, who reaffirmed that CAEXPO would continue to provide a stage for exchanges and reciprocal cooperation between enterprises and introduce more Malaysian quality products including specialty goods from Sarawak into the Chinese market. 'We hope that through this roadshow, Chinese and Malaysian enterprises in Sarawak can have good exchanges and seize market opportunities, investment, and growth opportunities brought by China-Asean Free Trade Area (CAFTA) 3.0 to develop an open an inclusive China-Asean trade and economic relations with greater mutual benefit,' he said. CAEXPO China China-Asean Expo lead Matrade
