Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) has reaffirmed its commitment to empower Mid-Tier Companies (MTCs) as key contributors to Malaysia’s regional economic leadership, said Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
Speaking at the MTC CEO Summit 2025, themed “Forging ASEAN’s Next Chapter: Malaysian Mid-Tier Companies Driving Resilient and Inclusive Growth”, Tengku Zafrul said MTCs remain the backbone of Malaysia’s industrial ecosystem, embodying agility, innovation, and a strong global orientation.
He said under the MADANI Economy framework, MTCs play a central role in driving sustainable and inclusive growth that benefits both the economy and local communities. “MTCs are not just exporters—they are catalysts of innovation, job creation and industrial linkages that strengthen Malaysia’s position in ASEAN,” he said.
Tengku Zafrul also highlighted that strengthening MTCs aligns with the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), which emphasises upgrading local industries into higher value-added and globally competitive sectors. “Our goal is clear — to transform Malaysia into a regional manufacturing and services hub driven by innovation, digitalisation and sustainable trade practices,” he added.
The MTC CEO Summit 2025 gathered over 300 CEOs from MATRADE’s Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP) alumni network and industry stakeholders to discuss resilience, competitiveness and collaboration within ASEAN’s evolving trade landscape.
According to the MTCDP Impact Tracking Report 2024, MTCs generated RM39.5 billion in annual revenue, of which RM22.8 billion came from exports, expanding their footprint to 115 markets, including non-traditional destinations such as Mozambique and Seychelles. The report also found that 11,000 Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) were integrated into their supply chains, creating over 6,400 new jobs, 69% of which are high-skilled positions.
The summit also marked the graduation of MTCDP Wave 11, adding to the 394 companies that have benefited from the programme since its launch in 2014. The initiative targets export-oriented MTCs with annual revenues between RM50 million to RM500 million for manufacturers and RM20 million to RM500 million for service providers.
Tengku Zafrul said these achievements underscore Malaysia’s readiness to lead the next phase of ASEAN’s economic integration. “We must continue to enhance regional value chains, champion sustainable practices and build competitive advantages that secure Malaysia’s long-term economic resilience,” he said.
