PAKISTAN may be relatively little known in the circle of Malaysia’s trade partners but the business collaboration between both countries has grown profoundly despite the global economy being ravaged by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Malaysia is increasingly becoming important for Pakistan economically. We also have a lot in common on issues of regional and global importance.
“These roles will assume greater importance as developments are likely to unfold on a regional as well as global scales in the coming decades,” Malaysia-Pakistan Business Council (MalPak) chairman Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazir Meraslam pointed out.
He was addressing a virtual town hall webinar session entitled “Understanding Business Opportunities with Malaysia” in Kuala Lumpur today.
Also present in the discussion were the Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry of Kuala Lumpur & Selangor (KLSCCI) and Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB).
Acknowledging the adverse impact the coronavirus pandemic had on the global economy, Nazir said smart initiatives adopted by both Malaysia and Pakistan had managed to mitigate certain effects in terms of both nations’ economic growth.
He added that MalPak was optimistic that there will be growth on bilateral trade and investments between Malaysia and Pakistan in the next five years.
Talents needed to boost trade cooperation
“Hence, we urge both Governments to raise awareness of Malaysia-Pakistan Close Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA) through workshops,” he enthused.
“Both nations can use the agreement as a platform in making practical steps to facilitate and grow businesses and investments.”
Nazir also urged Pakistani representatives to raise awareness of the opportunities and incentives under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
As for Malaysia, Nazir said that MalPak is in close communication with Government agencies which led to various sub-committees being formed.
Among the committees formed to facilitate business transactions between both nations are business development & strategy, information technology & digital, and textile & apparels.
These committees are small focused groups of experts in their fields of specialisation aimed at driving various engagements and initiatives.
“MalPak is looking for people from diverse discipline to join us so we can benefit from their skills and improve on our mutual cooperation,” added Nazir. – Dec 21, 2020
