BUKIT MERTAJAM (Feb 27): The Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) continues to play a major role in helping to strengthen micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the northern region, particularly Penang, in the development of the global supply chain through the successful Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP).

The programme aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration among industry leaders to enhance Malaysia's position in the global supply chain landscape by inspiring growth through exports among the MSMEs in attendance.

Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the programme brought together key stakeholders, including industry experts and representatives from leading companies across various sectors, to discuss emerging trends, challenges and best practices in global supply chain management.

He said participants had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from renowned speakers, engage in interactive panel discussions and network to explore potential collaborations and business opportunities.

“Matrade is always committed to supporting the growth of Malaysian exporters in their journey towards global competitiveness.

“We aim to provide a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration, empowering Malaysian companies to optimise their supply chain strategies and seize opportunities in the global market,” he said while officiating at the launch of the Mid-Tier Companies (MTCs) Benchmarking Programme in Penang, with the theme "Strengthening Penang and Northern Malaysian MSMEs in the Global Supply Chain" here on Tuesday.

Penang was previously reported as the state with the highest contribution to national exports in 2023, amounting to RM434.76 billion.

In terms of total trade, the state is in third place, after Selangor and Johor, with a record of RM719.87 billion, showing that Penang is among the most important players in the country's trade.

Meanwhile, Reezal Merican said that adapting to the supply chain strategy is important to comply with regulatory requirements and evolving market dynamics.

He also urged all MSMEs which attended the programme to take advantage of the services offered by Matrade in helping the internationalisation of activities.

He said that in this regard, cooperation with Matrade, which has more than 49 commissioner offices around the world, can increase the value of the Malaysian brand in the international market.

"This benchmarking programme acts as an interactive platform to share knowledge and experience between MTCs and MSMEs... it is part of the Mid-Tier Company Development Programme (MTCDP) implemented by Matrade.

“We have a high ambition to develop more MSMEs to thrive and become MTCs and then succeed in becoming a new global champion.

"The main objective of the programme is to guide MSMEs, especially in Penang in the aspect of export-oriented business development by applying best practices implemented by MTCs, which have achieved success in the international arena," he said.
 

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