Driving Global Competitiveness: MATRADE Champions Benchmarking Initiative in Kedah
SUNGAI PETANI, 24 JUNE 2025 (THURSDAY) - The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) continues to advance its mission of enhancing global competitiveness among Malaysian exporters, particularly in the northern region, through structured benchmarking programmes aimed at elevating organisational capabilities and industry best practices. Held at the Purest Hotel in Sungai Petani, Kedah, the event carried the appealing theme “From the North to the World – Striving for Global Excellence”.
In today’s dynamic and highly competitive global market, exporters must go beyond basic compliance and cost competitiveness by embracing innovation, operational excellence, and alignment with international standards. Through benchmarking initiatives, MATRADE empowers local companies to assess their performance against global peers, identify performance gaps and adopt world-class strategies that foster sustainable growth.
MATRADE, in collaboration with Deloitte Consulting Malaysia, organised the benchmarking programme which involved more than 50 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) representing a broad spectrum of industries. The programme not only serves as a learning platform but also as a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and strategic alignment with international market expectations. Participants gain access to tailored market intelligence, expert guidance and direct engagement with industry leaders and peers.
A key highlight of the programme was a fireside chat titled "Showcasing Local Expertise, Creating International Impact" featuring two distinguished MTCDP alumni: CK Wan, Managing Director of Respack Manufacturing Sdn Bhd and Mohd Ferdaus Md Taib, Managing Director of Multi Graded Industries Sdn Bhd. Moderated by MATRADE, the engaging session explored how both companies have strategically aligned their company’s capabilities to boost competitiveness and expand into international markets.
Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, Datuk Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz stated, “Competitiveness is no longer optional - it is essential. Exporters must be agile, efficient, and customer-centric. This programme supports the northern region MSMEs in boosting productivity, building strong brands, and expanding global market access. For Kedah-based exporters, this is a vital step toward moving up the value chain, achieving long-term and sustainable growth”.
MATRADE remains steadfast in its mission to support local businesses, especially in regions outside the Klang Valley, by bringing export development closer to home. With strong government support, comprehensive programmes, and active industry engagement, Malaysian exporters from all corners of the country, including the northern region, are well-positioned to succeed on the global stage.
“Northern-based mid-tier companies such as Golden Fresh, Respack, Century, and Jin Bin Corporation have delivered exemplary results by embracing global competitiveness. Through continuous innovation and bold international expansion, they have elevated their product to world-class standards, unlocked new markets across continents, and firmly established their brand presence on the global stage”, he added.
The Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP) is MATRADE’s flagship initiative launched in 2014 to support export-ready companies with strong growth potential. The programme focuses on building capabilities, facilitating market access, and strengthening the global presence of Malaysian mid-tier firms. To date, 370 MTCs have benefited from the programme of which seven (7) of them are based in Kedah. The participating companies have reported significant improvements in operational efficiency, market expansion, and global brand recognition as a direct result of MATRADE’s facilitation under MTCDP.
MATRADE will continue expanding its regional outreach to ensure companies in states such as Kedah are not left behind in Malaysia’s journey towards becoming a competitive, export-driven economy. The agency encourages more companies to participate in the MTCDP and other export development initiatives to future-proof their businesses in an evolving global landscape.
The MTCDP specifically targets Malaysian mid-tier companies —those with annual revenues between RM50 million and RM500 million— offering expert guidance, strategic advisory services, and tailored export plans. Interested parties may reach out to MATRADE through email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information.
