9 July 2019, Kuala Lumpur – The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA) and the Malaysian Petrochemicals Association (MPA) co-organised the biennial MPMA-MPA-MIDA Conference on Government Assistance at MIDA headquarters today. The Conference, attended by over 120 participants, aimed to create awareness and update members on the various Government policies, facilitation and assistance available for the plastics industry.

YBhg Dato’ Azman Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA officiated the Conference said that the growth and sustainability of the domestic downstream plastic sub-sector require the support of a robust upstream industry. The positive progress of Refinery and Petrochemical Integrated Development (RAPID) project by PETRONAS in Pengerang, Johor is a good example whereby its development has directly opened up opportunities for plastic manufacturers to expand and develop their products for higher end and sophisticated clientele.

“Despite the challenges faced, the launch of the Roadmap Towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018-2030 by the Ministry of Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change (MESTECC) last year presented industry stakeholders with opportunities to diversify their products offering and move up the value chain. Industry players have to embrace adaptable business models that are receptive to changing business environments. Companies have no choice but to adopt automation, smart concepts and technologies in its manufacturing process to increase productivity and competitiveness. The Government, on the other hand, will continuously seek out favourable policies and provide the necessary assistance and facilitation to ensure Malaysia’s investment climate remains attractive for businesses,” added Dato’ Azman.

Speaking at the opening of the Conference, Datuk Noraini Soltan, Vice-President of MPMA, reaffirmed the plastics industry’s position in the manufacturing sector. “The plastics industry is a major supporting industry to many other important sectors including the electrical and electronics, automotive and food packaging industries through the supply of plastic parts and components as well as plastic packaging materials. It is also recognised as a top exporter of plastic packaging materials among the Asian countries,” she said.

“This Conference is an excellent avenue for plastics manufacturers to be aware of pertinent Government policies and facilitation to enhance trade facilities and operational efficiency so that they are able to adopt new technologies and grow their businesses. As companies transform, we must also continue supporting our people by equipping them with new, invaluable skills they will need to further their careers. This, in turn, will contribute to significant economic impact and high-value job creation in the medium to long term,” added Datuk Noraini.

As of March 2019, more than 1,500 manufacturing projects in the plastics industries with investments valued over RM18 billion has been implemented in Malaysia. These projects have created more than 103,000 employment opportunities in the country.

The MPMA-MPA-MIDA Conference on Government’s Assistance featured sessions by speakers from MIDA, MPA, Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF), Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Malaysia Green Technology Corporation (MGTC), followed by breakout sessions to address one-to-one queries from participants.

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About MPMA

The Malaysian Plastics Manufacturers Association (MPMA), established in 1967, is a progressive trade association providing leadership and quality service to its members and the plastics industry. MPMA is the official voice of the Malaysian plastics industry, representing its members and the industry in Government interaction, spearheading the plastics industry’s growth and providing the platform to assist members in being globally competitive.

MPMA currently has about 750 members comprising Ordinary members, which represent about 60 per cent of plastics manufacturers in the country and account for 80 per cent of the country’s total production of plastic products, as well as Associate members who are mainly raw material and machinery suppliers.

About MPA

The Malaysian Petrochemicals Association (MPA) was officially formed on March 19, 1997, and it is a formal Association registered with the Registrar of Societies, Malaysia. MPA has 23 members engaged in the manufacture and trading of petrochemicals and plastic resins.

The main objectives of the Malaysian Petrochemicals Association (MPA) are as follows:

• To provide a forum to discuss and resolve common problems of the petrochemical industry.
• To provide a focal point for the petrochemical industry to liaise with the public and government and to make recommendations on relevant issues.
• To advance the philosophy of Responsible Care, its implementation and compliance throughout the industry.
• To represent the petrochemical industry within Malaysia to interface with similar groups on an international basis.
• To compile and disseminate information of common concerns and provide facilities for consultation and exchange of views between members.

The Plastic Resins Producers’ Group (MPA PRPG) is a product group under the MPA. Membership in PRPG is open to manufacturers of plastic resins in Malaysia. MPA PRPG currently has 10 members.

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become an active and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

For more Information:

Mr. SC Chan

Manager, MPMA

Tel: 603-7876 3027 | Fax: 603-7876 8352

Email: [email protected]

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Secretariat

Malaysian Petrochemicals Association (MPA)

Tel: 03-6286 7200 | Fax: 03-6277 6714

E-mail: [email protected] / [email protected]

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Ms. Surayu Susah

Director, Chemical and Advanced Materials Division, MIDA

Tel: 03-2267 6773 | Email: [email protected]

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Welcome Address by Vice President of MPMA

Keynote Address by CEO of MIDA

“In light of the projected double-digit growth of e-Commerce in the region, Malaysia is ready to take part in transforming the existing digital landscape into a bright digital future. The Government through MIDA has expanded the logistics incentive scheme by introducing the second round Integrated Logistics Services (ILS) incentive to encourage logistics companies to adopt technology in their operations and to position themselves as regional e-Fulfilment hub providers in Malaysia. From 2017 until March 2019, MIDA has approved eight e-Fulfilment projects in which seven of these projects are locally owned,” said YB Dr. Ong Kian Ming, Deputy Minister of the International Trade and Industry at the “Investment Opportunities in the E-Commerce Fulfillment Industry Seminar 2019” held in the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) today.

The Seminar, which was an initiative of the National e-Commerce Council (NeCC), was organised by the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in collaboration with MITI and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). It aims to position Malaysia as an “E-Fulfillment Hub”, focusing on leveraging greater integration across the industry to support its rapid growth in the country.

The event was well attended by over 350 participants from various fields, including government agencies, logistics providers, e-Commerce players and potential investors. It featured panel sessions by a broad range of speakers from government agencies (MIDA, MDEC, MITI, Customs) and industry players (GDEX, DHL, Urban Fox, Cainiao, CJ Century, Logistics Worldwide Express, Easy Parcel and iStoreiSend).

YB Dr. Ong in his speech highlighted that the joint venture between Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB) with Alibaba’s logistics arm, Cainiao Smart Logistics Network (Hong Kong) Ltd, to develop a regional e-Commerce and logistics hub at KLIA, is progressing well. He urged local logistics players to gear up and take advantage of the huge growth opportunities. “Companies also need to invest and adopt cutting-edge technologies, and to explore potentially disruptive technologies to create new ways of business, as well as to lower cost while enhancing overall efficiency,” added YB Dr. Ong.

The interest of companies in emerging areas, such as cold chain logistics, last mile delivery services and halal logistics is growing, due to the high margins and rising demand. The economy of the country is expected to grow between 5% and 6% and this will indeed drive the growth of the logistics industry further.

Mr. Arham Abdul Rahman, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIDA in his welcoming remarks said,” MIDA takes the helm in developing the nation’s e-Fulfilment hub, under the Malaysian National E-Commerce Strategic Roadmap (NESR). We focus on developing the capability and efficiency of logistics service providers in operating e-fulfilment facilities to cater to the diverse needs of the online shopping market. We continuously encourage logistics companies to invest in physical and virtual ICT systems, such as Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and Smart Logistics to enable them to undertake complex activities. MIDA has also taken the initiative alongside MDEC to enhance talent development in the e-Commerce and e-fulfilment industries. Some of the measures in place include improving industry readiness of new graduates and encouraging SMEs to provide training for employees. In addition to generate high income jobs for Malaysians, these measures will eliminate labour market mismatch and maximise productivity.”

“eCommerce is a key tenet of the digital economy, providing far-reaching business opportunities and societal upliftment opportunities for Malaysia. MDEC applauds continuous engagement of this type borne out of collaboration between the public and private sectors, which will boost the development of our eCommerce ecosystem and strengthen the platform from which our SMEs can expand into wider markets,” said Dato’ Mathialakan Chelliah, acting Chairman, MDEC.

The event also witnessed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) exchange between MIDA and DHL Express. This collaboration is an initiative to attract DHL’s potential MNC clients to look at Malaysia as an investment destination either for relocation or to centralise their operational function (regional operations) as well as business expansions.

“As the world’s leading express logistics service provider with a global network comprising more than 220 countries and territories, DHL Express has been a leading advocate of international trade and a champion of globalisation for the growth and prosperity it brings. Naturally, DHL Express Malaysia’s commitment to support MIDA is very much aligned to this ethos. With a stable and growing economy, and a robust infrastructure, there is a lot that Malaysia can offer foreign companies as the country progresses toward the fourth industrial revolution (Industry 4.0)”, said Julian Neo, Managing Director, DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei.

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About MITI

MITI is the key driver in making Malaysia the preferred destination for quality investments and enhancing the nation’s rising status as a globally trading nation. Its objectives and roles are oriented towards ensuring Malaysia’s rapid economic development and help achieve the country’s stated goal of becoming a developed nation.

About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become an active and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

About MDEC

Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) is the government agency under the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia entrusted to lead the nation’s digital economy forward. MDEC’s mandate includes driving digital adoption, development of industry ready tech talents, digital economy policies and global champions.

To future proof Malaysia for the digital age, MDEC will leverage its proven track record, industry credibility and experienced leadership to connect, catalyse and commercialise digital initiatives to advance a thriving and sustainable digital economy placing diversity and inclusivity at its core. #LetsBuildTogether #DigitalMalaysiaForward. To find out more about MDEC’s Digital Economy initiatives, please visit www.mdec.my or follow MDEC on: Facebook: @MyMDEC Twitter: @mymdec

For more information:

Ministry of International Trade & Industry

Strategic Communications Unit

Tel: 03 6200 0082

Fax: 03 6206 4293

E-mail: [email protected]

Ms. Wahida Abdul Rahman

Director, Business Services & Supply Chain Innovation Division, MIDA

Tel: 03-2267 6622

Email: [email protected]

Ms. Sharifah Syazreen Syed Agail

Senior Executive, Communications, MDEC

Tel: 03-8314 1839

Email: [email protected]

Download:

Opening Remarks by DCEO I of MIDA – Seminar on eFulfilment Hub

Keynote Address by YBDM of MITI- Seminar on eFulfilment Hub

16 July 2019, Bayan Lepas, Penang – “The Penang state has consistently been ranked among the top investment destinations in the country over the last five decades. In terms of investment, from 1980 to 2018, MIDA has approved a total of 4,084 manufacturing projects with investments worth RM129.1 billion for Penang. Approved foreign investments in the manufacturing sector totalled RM90.4 billion, accounting for 70 per cent of total investments approved for the State, while domestic investments are the remaining 30 per cent or RM38.7 billion. In the first quarter of this year, Penang recorded another RM8.8 billion of total approved investment in the manufacturing sector, 780% higher compared with RM1.0 billion, approved in the same period last year. Of this, RM8.5 billion were from foreign investments, representing 42.1 per cent of Malaysia’s total approved FDI in the manufacturing sector for the period of January to March 2019. Notable approved manufacturing projects in Penang include projects from Micron Technology and Jabil Circuit,” said Mr. Zabidi Mahbar, Deputy Chief Executive Officer II of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) in his welcoming remarks at the Domestic Investment Seminar in Penang held this morning.

MIDA continues to undertake various activities and programmes to attract more quality investments, including from the domestic players. For example, a dedicated team namely the Investment Coordination Platform (ICP), established by MIDA is able to facilitate companies to expand their businesses and investment portfolio. This unit works closely with equity and corporate advisory firms as well as local regulators and technology providers in assisting companies in conducting business-to-business matching, capital raising exercise through debt & equity, M&A, divestment and initial public listing or IPO.

“For those who may not be aware, MIDA has established the i-incentive portal that provides comprehensive information on all incentives offered by various Ministries and Agencies concerning the manufacturing, services and primary sectors. The portal is very dynamic in nature as it is responsive to announcements of new incentives and assistance schemes offered by the Government, thus allowing the business community to obtain real-time information on the latest available facilities. It currently features 124 incentives schemes that are managed by 12 ministries and 28 government agencies. About 55% of these incentives cater to the services sectors, followed by manufacturing at 33% and the primary sector at 12% as at 30th June 2019. These incentives include tax exemptions, grants, soft loans and other forms of incentives such as equity financing, regional establishment status and training and facilitation programmes. MIDA has also developed a gateway, namely i-Services Portal as an avenue to market the services and solutions of the local service providers, both locally and abroad.” added Mr. Zabidi.

The Domestic Investment Seminar was well attended by over 300 participants from various fields, including manufacturers, service providers and other potential investors. It featured presentations by a broad range of speakers from MIDA, MATRADE, MIDF, EXIM Bank, MPC, Standards Malaysia, and SIRIM.

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About MIDA

MIDA is the government’s principal promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) to oversee and drive investments into the manufacturing and services sectors in Malaysia. Starting operations in 1967 with a relatively small set up of 37 staff, MIDA has grown to become a strong and dynamic organisation of over 700 employees. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur Sentral, MIDA today has 12 regional and 20 overseas offices. MIDA continues to be the strategic partner to businesses in seizing the opportunities arising from the technology revolution of this era. For more information, please visit www.mida.gov.my and follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid

Director, Domestic Investment and Supply Chain Coordination Division, MIDA

Tel.: 03-2267 6633 | Email: [email protected]

Download:

Speech by DCEO II of MIDA_Penang Domestic Investment Seminar