MATRADE Focuses on Elevating Export Capabilities for Local Businesses.

Kuching, 28th November 2024 – The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Sarawak’s micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in achieving excellence in digital marketing and global branding. Through its signature Mid-tier Companies (MTCs) Benchmarking Programme, MATRADE is enhancing local businesses’ ability to expand internationally and navigate the challenges of the global marketplace.

Themed “Digital Marketing for Global Reach”, the programme, held at the Sheraton Hotel Kuching, attracted over 50 MSMEs from various industries. This initiative was designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing between established MTCs under the Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP) and aspiring MSMEs, equipping them with strategies to succeed in export markets.

This year’s benchmarking programme, hosted in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting, brought together industry leaders, experts, and MSMEs to explore emerging trends in digital marketing and branding. Attendees participated in interactive panel discussions, fireside chats, and networking sessions, gaining actionable insights from prominent MTC exporters and exploring potential collaborations for future growth.

Leveraging Strategic Industry Insights

During the event, MATRADE facilitated a fireside chat titled “Branding and Digital Marketing Strategies to Scale Beyond Borders”, featuring two distinguished MTCDP alumni: Mr. Danny Tai, Chief Operating Officer of Pansar Berhad, and Datin Hasnah Awang, Director of Gading Kencana Sdn. Bhd. The session highlighted their successes in leveraging digital marketing to expand internationally, sharing practical advice on building sustainable global brands.

In addition, MATRADE and Deloitte Consulting provided valuable insights on navigating the complexities of global branding and optimising digital marketing strategies to enhance competitiveness. This knowledge equips MSMEs with tools to boost brand visibility, drive export growth, and adapt to dynamic market conditions.

Building on Proven Success

Since its launch in 2014, the MTCDP has been instrumental in accelerating the export growth of Malaysian mid-tier companies, with 348 MTCs benefiting from its comprehensive support. The programme’s extension, the Mid-Tier Ramp Up Programme, introduced in 2016, further bolstered the competitiveness of participating companies, positioning them as global leaders.

MATRADE’s efforts align with the government’s MADANI Economy and New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030, which focus on fostering economic growth in new sectors while promoting inclusivity and sustainability. The MTCDP specifically targets export-oriented MTCs, offering tailored support to manufacturing companies with annual revenues of RM50 million to RM500 million and service providers with revenues of RM20 million to RM500 million.

Commitment to Export Excellence

As part of its exporters’ development agenda, MATRADE continues to nurture a robust ecosystem that empowers businesses to achieve global success. By bridging the gap between experienced exporters and aspiring MSMEs, MATRADE aims to cultivate more export champions and contribute to Malaysia’s economic resurgence.

Businesses interested in leveraging the MTCDP’s resources can contact MATRADE via email at [email protected] for further details.