A historic milestone was achieved this week as the Uganda High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with World One and Virtue Arts Enterprise, hosted the ASEAN’s First East African Community Country Business Forum & Expo at the Renaissance Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The prestigious recognition was formally acknowledged by ASEAN Records during the event’s opening day, marking a significant leap in bilateral cooperation and cross-regional trade development.
Held under the theme “Business Without Borders”, the 2-day Uganda-Malaysia Business Expo brought together leading government officials, diplomats, investors, and business communities from both regions. The event aimed to elevate trade relations, promote bilateral investments, and build a strategic platform for economic cooperation between ASEAN and the East African Community, with a special focus on Uganda.
Celebrating a Record-Setting Collaboration
ASEAN Records officially presented the certificate to commemorate the forum as the “ASEAN’s First East African Community Country Business Forum & Expo”, recognizing its pioneering role in bridging ASEAN-Africa diplomatic and economic relations. The accolade highlights the success of a landmark initiative that united two regions through business, innovation, culture, and shared development goals.
Distinguished Guests & Collaborative Focus
The Business Forum was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including:
- YB Tuan Nik Nazmi bin Nik Ahmad, Minister of Natural Resources & Environmental Sustainability
- Dato’ Seri Mohd Rafizi bin Ramli, Minister of Economic Affairs of Malaysia
- YB Datuk Seri Haji Mohamad bin Sabu, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security
- H.E. Dr. Betty Oyella Bigombe, Uganda High Commissioner to Malaysia
- Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa Ssentamu, Uganda Minister of Energy and Mineral Development
These leaders underscored the significance of deepening Malaysia-Uganda ties in sectors such as agriculture, energy, tourism, education, and manufacturing.
Highlights of the Business Forum & Expo
- Main Conference Sessions & Workshops: Featuring investment climate discussions, keynote addresses, and interactive business panels.
- Business Expo Pavilion: Showcased Ugandan products and services across agriculture, textiles, tourism, IT, and more.
- Cultural Exchange Gala Dinner: A cross-cultural celebration highlighting Ugandan and Malaysian traditions, cuisines, and performances.
- Trade Missions & B2B Networking: Included scheduled meetings between business representatives to explore joint ventures and trade opportunities.
A Blueprint for Future Regional Integration
The ASEAN Records recognition signals the beginning of a broader agenda for regional cooperation. With Uganda’s strategic position within COMESA, EAC, and AfCFTA, and Malaysia’s role as an ASEAN economic hub, the Business Expo laid the foundation for a long-term economic bridge between ASEAN and Africa.
“This is not just a record—it’s a movement towards regional solidarity, economic inclusion, and cultural harmony,” said Datuk Irwin Cheong, Co-Founder of World One. We are proud to recognize this as the first of many future engagements between ASEAN and the East African Community.”
Looking Ahead
Following the Expo’s success, both Malaysia and Uganda have expressed intent to explore recurring business exchanges, joint investment councils, and future trade expos across ASEAN and EAC member states.