JOHOR BARU: Malaysia has been named the guest of honour at next year's Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, China's largest trade exhibition.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said Malaysia's participation would include a dedicated "Malaysia Pavilion" showcasing rural products and brands to boost the local economy.
"China itself chose Malaysia and gave us this honour," Nga said after closing the Wow! Kampung Baru Central and Southern Zone Expo 2025 here today.
"Through the Housing and Local Government Ministry and non-governmental organisations, we will promote kampung-made products to help stimulate the local economy and support small and medium enterprises (SMEs)."
Nga said this year's Harbin expo, held in May, recorded a trade value of RM200 billion.
He added that the Wow! Kampung Baru expo was held in Johor for the first time, following its debut in Ipoh last year, in line with the government's policy to strengthen village and community-based economies.
"Malaysia has 613 new villages and 16,000 traditional ones.
"If each can produce a unique product or brand, it will help create jobs, raise incomes, and revitalise rural economies," he said.
Nga also announced that 36 SME products received the "Kampung Good" certification this year, bringing the total to 57 since its launch last year.
The "Kampung Good" label, launched by the ministry, certifies high-quality SME products from villages in the country, to highlight its authenticity and local heritage.
It offers winners marketing and branding support (often including halal certification) to help them compete domestically and internationally, turning rural craftsmanship into economic opportunity.
"We will help these entrepreneurs promote their certified products and assist them in obtaining halal certification to expand their market reach," he said.
The Teluk Intan member of Parliament said he hopes next year's Wow! Kampung Baru expo, held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, will see greater participation from new villages and SMEs nationwide.
Source: https://www.nst.com.my/amp/news/nation/2025/10/1302397/malaysia-showcase-kampung-pride-products-chinas-harbin-fair