ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia held a virtual consultation meeting with Japan on 3 November 2022, chaired by ASEAN-BAC Malaysia Chairman Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Munir Majid with the presence of Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Takahashi Katsuhiko, and attended by five speakers. The session discussed the opportunities and challenges that Japanese businesses are currently facing in Malaysia.

Tan Sri Munir has suggested reviving and evolving the Look-East Days between Malaysia and Japan during the 1980s, to include sustainable and green economy.

Tan Sri Yong Poh Kon, fellow council member added “With Malaysia’s recent ratification of the CPTPP, Japan and Malaysia’s cultural, trading, investment and educational links established over many years can now be elevated to a higher level. Tapping into the huge USD 838 billion government procurement market can be facilitated through a concerted and structured effort between the officials and private sector from both countries”.

Mr Raja Singham, ASEAN-BAC Malaysia council member also said that Japan’s expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) combined with Malaysia’s strength in manufacturing and supply chain is worth exploring. Japanese assistance in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), technology and education sector will help Malaysia become a supplier of skilled labour to Japan to meet its needs.