
Image credit: Sinar Daily
BUTTERWORTH: The Malaysian Investment Development Authority (Mida) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) aim to connect small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with multinational corporations (MNCs) and large local companies (LLCs) to enable them to become competitive global manufacturers and suppliers.
Mida chairman Tan Sri Dr Sulaiman Mahbob said by helping SMEs overcome high-entry barriers, it does not only contribute value to industrial growth but also to Penang’s economy and the regional economy as a whole.
Mida has forged a longstanding partnership with FMM with a shared mission to accelerate localisation initiatives and strengthen ties between domestic companies, including SMEs, MNCs, and LLCs, he said.
“Our goal is to help many more companies to grow from strength to strength, not just in terms of size but in terms of the capabilities they can bring to the table.
“To fully harness these opportunities, local companies must stay abreast of the rapid technological changes taking place globally, particularly in line with the Industry 4.0 revolution,” Sulaiman told reporters at the Mida-FMM Industrial Linkage Day (Penang) yesterday.
He also said that SMEs, MNCs and LLCs have much to gain by joining hands in partnership as each entity brings unique strengths and advantages.
Sulaiman explained that MNCs and LLCs by virtue of their size are able to provide a depth of expertise, economies of scale and access to the latest technologies, while agile SMEs make quick decisions, operate nimbly, and drive innovation.
“It is through these partnerships that we create an unstoppable force, ensuring the robust growth of our nation’s economy.
“Amidst geopolitical developments like the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Malaysian government is actively working to safeguard the interests of investors and industries.
“These stakeholders play a crucial role in providing jobs to our people and supporting our SMEs through their supply chain ecosystem,” he said.
Sulaiman added that the manufacturing sector in Malaysia continues to attract a healthy level of investments, with a substantial value of RM15.6bil or 21.8% of the total approved investments.
Source: https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2023/06/22/smes-should-join-hands-with-mncs-and-llcs