IPOH, 20 August 2024 (TUESDAY) - Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) continues its effort to strengthen small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Perak through the agency’s signature Mid-tier Companies (MTC) Benchmarking Programme here today. The Programme is an interactive sharing platform between successful MTCs under the Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP) and targeted SMEs.  

Themed “Empowering Growth Through Global Branding and Sustainability”, the Benchmarking Programme took place at the WEIL Hotel Ipoh and was attended by 100 SMEs from various industries. It aims to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration among industry leaders to enhance Malaysia's position in global branding and sustainability, ensuring resilience and inspiring growth through exports among the local SMEs.

This strategic collaboration with Deloitte Consulting brought together key stakeholders including industry experts and representatives from leading companies across various sectors, to discuss emerging trends, challenges, and best practices in global branding and sustainability. Participants had the opportunity to gain valuable insights from renowned MTC exporters, engage in interactive panel discussions, and network with peers to explore potential collaborations and business opportunities.

"MATRADE is committed to a comprehensive and inclusive approach to developing exporters", said Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE. "Via pivotal collaborations with Mid-Tier Companies, we guide MSMEs with practical methods to enhance their global branding efforts. The MTCDP benchmarking event in Perak underscores our dedication to supporting Malaysian exporters in becoming regional and global champions. By establishing a platform for robust knowledge exchange and cultivating strategic partnerships between established exporters and local SMEs, MATRADE is dedicated to advancing Malaysian exporters to excel globally and attain prestigious industry recognition". 

"MATRADE consistently prioritises export excellence by fostering a dynamic export ecosystem and driving sustainable economic growth through global branding. Malaysian exporters should implement targeted approaches to expand their global reach and optimise their export outcomes. Tailored market strategies will enhance their competitiveness position, increase recognition, and drive sustained success in international markets", he added. 

During the event, both MATRADE and Deloitte Consulting shared valuable insights from industry perspectives and facilitated discussions on innovative approaches as well as strategies in navigating effectively the complexities of global branding and sustainability. A fireside discussion on the topic of “Building a Sustainable Future: Lessons from Global Brands” moderated by MATRADE, gathered two prominent MTCs in Perak, namely Mr. Kenny Lim, Executive Director and Group CEO of Chuan Sin Sdn Bhd and En. Mohd Ferdaus Md Taib, Director of Multi Graded Industries Sdn Bhd. The enriched discussion highlighted the MTCs’ experiences on eco-friendly export strategies and sustainable growth as well as providing valuable insights of sustainable practices in emphasising their branding presence for Spritzer and Century’s range of products in the international markets.

Introduced in 2014 as a high impact key initiative in the Malaysia Development Plan, the MTCDP aims to accelerate the export growth of MTCs, positioning them as global leaders. Following the success of the programme, the Mid-Tier Ramp Up Programme was launched in 2016 to further propel MTCs' exports and enhance their competitiveness in global markets. To date, 348 MTCs have benefited from the MTCDP.

MATRADE is committed to cultivating more export champions and supporting the government's efforts to rejuvenate the Malaysian economy as outlined in the MADANI Economy and NIMP 2030. This involves fostering growth in new sectors while ensuring socio-economic inclusiveness and sustainability.

The MTCDP targets export-oriented MTCs with annual revenues ranging from RM50 million to RM500 million for manufacturing companies and RM20 million to RM500 million for service providers. Interested parties may reach out MATRADE through email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information.