The Cambodia Malaysia Business Forum, co-hosted by the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC) and the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC), marked a significant milestone in fostering collaborative economic potential between the Kingdom of Cambodia and Malaysia. Held in Kuala Lumpur on the 27th of February 2024, the forum was supported by key governmental and business entities, including the Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA), the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), and the National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM).
The event convened over 400 participants, including Prime Minister of Cambodia Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet, deputy prime ministers, ministers, senior government officials, trade delegates, and business leaders from both nations. A highlight of the forum was a panel discussion featuring representatives from the Council for Development of Cambodia, MIDA, MATRADE, the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), and CCC, providing insights into investment climate and bilateral trade dynamics.
In his keynote address, Prime Minister Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet underscored the enduring relations between Cambodia and Malaysia, emphasizing Malaysia’s significant role as one of the earliest and largest foreign direct investors in Cambodia. He expressed optimism about the forum’s potential to elevate bilateral trade and investment relations, particularly in sectors such as rice, cashew nuts, automotive, electronics, and renewable energy.
Neak Oknha Kith Meng, President of CCC and Chair of ASEAN-BAC Cambodia, highlighted the distinctiveness of Malaysian investments in Cambodia and urged Malaysian investors to leverage Cambodia’s strategic position in ASEAN and its favorable investment laws and policies.
Oknha Tan Khee Meng, President of MBCC, shared success stories of Malaysian investors in Cambodia and encouraged further investment in sectors like renewable energy and agro-processing.
Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai, President of NCCIM, emphasized Malaysia’s strengths in industries such as rubber and palm oil processing, pharmaceuticals, and electronics, highlighting the potential for establishing industrial parks in Cambodia.
H.E. Mr. Sok Chenda Sophea, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation; H.E. Mr. Sun Chanthol, Deputy Prime Minister and First Vice President of of The Council for the Development of Cambodia; Neak Oknha Kith Meng, President of Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC); Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia; Oknha Tan Khee Meng, President of Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC); YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia; H.E. Datuk Eldeen Husaini Mohd Hashim, Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia; Tan Sri Dato’ Soh Thian Lai, President of National Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (NCCIM)
The forum concluded with a business matching gala dinner, facilitating discussions and partnerships between Malaysian and Cambodian businesses, setting the stage for future economic cooperation.
This event signifies a shared commitment to prosperity and growth between Cambodia and Malaysia, paving the way for tangible outcomes and long-term benefits for both nations.
About the Cambodia Chamber of Commerce (CCC): The CCC fosters a business-friendly environment in Cambodia, providing advocacy, advice, and networking opportunities to the business community.
About the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC): The MBCC serves as a vital link between Malaysian businesses and the Cambodian market, offering support, networking, and business development opportunities.