Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has announced the extension of Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican’s tenure as chairman for another two years, starting April 18 2025. The decision follows his successful leadership since his initial appointment in April 2023.
Under Reezal Merican’s leadership, Malaysia’s export value grew 5.7% to RM1.508 trillion in 2024, achieving 87.2% of the target set under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP) Mid-Term Review.
He also played a key role in elevating the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) to global recognition. MIHAS 2023 secured a Guinness World Record for the “Largest Attendance for a Halal Trade Exhibition,” while MIHAS 2024 recorded its highest-ever sales at RM4.3 billion, a 34% increase from the previous year. MIHAS was also introduced in Dubai, UAE, generating RM2.2 billion in sales.
Additionally, he led the Export Acceleration Mission (EAM) to Egypt and Libya, securing RM250 million in sales, expanding Malaysian exporters’ reach in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
His term extension was announced by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz at the launch of Madani Digital Trade (MDT) at MITEC. Tengku Zafrul expressed confidence that Reezal Merican’s continued leadership will further strengthen Malaysia’s export competitiveness.
