The European Union (EU) is looking to Malaysia to play a bigger role in strengthening Asean-EU relations while urging for a wider scope of cooperation among members of the regional organisation with other partners in order to preempt future geopolitical and socio-economic problems.

Explaining the EU long term plans, its Ambassador to Malaysia, Michalis Rokas, feels now is the time for EU to stay the course in striving for a closer Asean-EU collaboration in many other sectors of interest to both sides.

"In 2025, Malaysia will take over as Asean chair. Together with the Ambassadors' of the EU Member States in Malaysia, we will engage at early stage with Wisma Putra to discuss what we can do together to address critical challenges and rising tensions," he said.

In addition, Malaysia has recently become a partner country in a regional project called ESIWA – Enhancing Security in and with Asia.

EUROCHAM Malaysia was invitation to participate in MITI's Outreach Session centered on the advantages of CPTPP and RCEP. A day of insights unfolded as we were treated to an illuminating presentation on 'CPTPP and RCEP: Opportunities for Your Business?' by the esteemed YBhg. Datuk Seri Isham Ishak, Secretary General of MITI. In further enhancement of the dialogue, MITI presented invaluable insights into Trade in Goods within the CPTPP and RCEP framework, as well as their expertise on Rules of Origin for CPTPP and RCEP.

A significant portion of the session was dedicated to a profound exploration of state-owned enterprises (SOE), elegantly conveyed by En. Arunan Tan Sri Kumaran from KPDN. Adding the final brushstroke was the Ministry of Finance (MOF) through En. Wan Azwar Zaihan Wan Ahmad's, as he delved into the intricacies of government procurement within the scope of CPTPP and RCEP.

As the day's discussions unfolded, a networking session added a valuable dimension to the collaborative spirit. We are grateful for the knowledge shared and connections fostered at this remarkable session.

We would like to wish all our members, friends and connections a happy 56^th ASEAN Day!

“ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth”

EUROCHAM Malaysia was invited to participate in the vital Dialogue Session with PERKESO's Group CEO on MADANI Career Incentive and Chambers Engagement. A privilege to engage with Dato' Sri Dr. Mohammed Azman bin Aziz Mohammed, CEO of PERKESO, as he unveiled the strategic Active Labour Market Programme's facets – Daya Kerjaya, Daya Kerjaya TVET, and Bina Kerjaya. These initiatives, fostering economic growth through career incentives, is a testament to PERKESO's commitment under the Ministry of Human Resources (MOHR).

With gratitude, we extend appreciation to PERKESO for this opportunity. Anticipating more collaborative engagements in the pipeline to fortify EU-MY business endeavours.

We had a dynamic journey at the Responsible Business Exhibition and Multi-Stakeholder Conference, co-organised by Thomson Reuters Foundation and EUROCHAM Malaysia. Together, we charted a course through the intricate landscape of responsible business practices, aligning with global legislation. The event resonated with the significant directives like the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence, Reporting Directives, and the German Supply Chain Act – all compelling businesses to innovate and flourish in a changing world.

Kicking off with insightful remarks from Mr Nicholas Glicher, COO of Thomson Reuters Foundation, we delved into the foundation's impactful work. Following suit, Mr. Sven Schneider, CEO of EUROCHAM Malaysia, enthralled us with narratives about EU sustainability programs and the chamber's invaluable role in fostering sustainability.

We then proceeded with a fireside chat, featuring luminaries Dr Eva Langerbeck, Deputy Executive Director / Head of Corporate Services Department at the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ms Ooi Ju-Lien, Partner, Christopher & Lee Ong who dissected the implications of global regulations on Malaysian businesses. Moderated by Stefania Perna of Thomson Reuters, it was a captivating discourse on adapting, complying, and thriving.

A bustling business exhibition showcased diverse enterprises, igniting dialogues on responsible practices. Attendees immersed themselves in discovering services vital for advancing their responsible business journey.

EUROCHAM Malaysia had the honour of being invited to witness the momentous Signing Ceremony of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC).

The event, held at the Azman Hashim Auditorium, AICB building, Kuala Lumpur, marked a pivotal step towards fortifying industrial policies through competition. The MoU aims to foster collaboration and synergy between the two regulatory powerhouses in addressing complex competition issues that transcend borders, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.

The MoU was officially signed by YBhg. Dato' Seri Mohd Hishamudin bin Yunus, the esteemed Chairman of MyCC, and YBhG. Dato' Mohd Ali Hanafiah bin Mohd Yunus, the Chief Operating Officer of MCMC. We were honoured to witness the presence of distinguished personalities like YB Senator Puan Hajah Fuziah binti Salleh, Deputy Minister of Internal Trade and Cost of Living, as well as Tan Sri Mohamad Salim bin Fateh Din, Chairman of MCMC.