Friday, October 5, 2018 | The Japan Times | 7

( Sponsored content ) Malaysia Special Solid partnership aims for ‘unparalleled development’

YB DARELL LEIKING can be further explored by both coun- MINISTER OF INTERNATIONAL TRADE & tries. These would include, in particular, INDUSTRY aerospace, medical devices, artificial intel- ligence, renewable energy, chemical and For decades, Japan and Malaysia have petrochemical, e-commerce, blockchain enjoyed a good relationship in various technology and the halal industry. For the spheres such as trade, investment, educa- halal industry, since Japan was our third- tion, technology and culture. After Prime largest halal export destination in 2017, Minister assumed his with an export value of 2.82 billion ringgits, premiership this year, the bilateral rela- it is anticipated that Malaysia will play a tionship between both countries gained significant role in providing her expertise renewed momentum with new aspirations in halal-related areas in preparation for by the government of Malaysia. Japan was the upcoming 2020 Summer Olympic and the first country visited by our honorable Paralympic Games in Tokyo. prime minister and it signified the close The trade and investment mission to relationship between Mahathir and Japan. Japan scheduled for Oct. 15 to 17 this year Upon achieving its independence in will be the first trade mission by myself as 1957, Malaysia’s trade relations with Japan minister of international trade and indus- soared; the first Japanese investment in try. It reflects the acknowledgement of Malaysia was the joint venture of a textile Japan’s contribution to Malaysia’s economy manufacturing project undertaken in the as the fourth-leading trading nation in 2017. same year. In subsequent years, the num- It aims, among other things, to enhance ber of joint projects with Japan increased bilateral economic and trade relations Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe shake hands during their meeting in Tokyo on June 12 significantly, particularly in the 1970s. between both countries and showcase After World War II, Japan managed ment value amounting to $672.8 million. that Malaysia is committed to providing an to sustain high economic growth and Some of the notable companies are Scien- improved business-friendly environment emerged as the world’s second-largest tex Berhad, Metrod Holdings Japan, Tokyo with heightened transparency and good economy in 1981. The whole world was Gas, Komatsu and Panasonic Financial governance, as well as being trade facilita- amazed by Japan’s economic success. In Centre. As of March 2018, four Japanese tive. This mission, which includes a bilateral Advancing economic growth via cooperation 1982, Mahathir announced the Look East conglomerates were approved with “Princi- meeting with my Japanese counterpart, Policy during the Fifth Annual Joint Confer- pal Hub” status. a seminar on business and investment Hiroshige Seko evolving bilateral economic relationship. ence of MAJECA-JAMECA (Malaysia-Japan Japanese companies, including small and opportunities in Malaysia and one-to-one Minister of Economy, Trade and It is also important to promote efforts Economic Association and Japan-Malaysia medium-sized enterprises are welcome to business meetings with selected compa- Industry to strengthen broader economic part- Economic Association) at the Hilton Kuala invest, particularly in the new growth areas nies, will provide a great opportunity for nership in addition to the bilateral eco- Lumpur. This policy has played an impor- characterized by emerging technologies, both sides to explore further collaboration. I would like to offer my heartfelt congratu- nomic partnership. Japan and Malaysia tant role in shaping the Malaysia-Japan being capital intensive, high-value added, The fundamentals of the diplomatic rela- lations to Malaysia on its 61st anniversary have been closely cooperating with each relationship. The success of the policy has knowledge-based, skill-intensive, export- tions between Malaysia and Japan since of independence. Japan and Malaysia other to realize various regional integra- led to the establishment of the second oriented and increasing automation, as our independence has indeed been further opened diplomatic relations on Aug. 31, tion initiatives, starting with the Associa- iteration of the Look East Policy. During well as the extensive research and develop- enhanced over the years. Through eco- 1957. Since then, the two countries have tion of Southeast Asian Nations-Japan Mahathir’s recent visit to Japan in June, ment areas. Japanese companies are also nomic partnership, the trade between both deepened their relationship in all aspects, Comprehensive Economic Partnership, both prime ministers vowed to revitalize welcome to use Malaysia as their gateway countries has grown by leaps and bounds including politics, economy, culture and which came into force in 2008. The Com- and strengthen the Look East Policy, which into the Association of Southeast Asian with various industries benefitting from education. prehensive and Progressive Agreement underscored Mahathir’s desire to have Nations that offers a market of 640 million the burgeoning synergy. As for the Min- On the economic front, Japanese compa- for Trans-Pacific Partnership, which was more collaboration between Malaysia and people. istry of International Trade and Industry, nies began to advance into Malaysia in the signed in March this year, is an economic Japan, especially in the areas of technology Malaysia has a strong domestic ecosys- we will continue to serve as the main focal 1960s, led by the electric and electronics partnership agreement that establishes and innovation. tem that allows companies to grow and point for trade and investment. industries. Later, against the backdrop of a 21st century rules in a wide range of areas, Japan has always been one of Malaysia’s expand in this region. With the capabili- I trust that with the slogan “New Malay- stable political situation, increased English including rules on electronic commerce top sources of foreign direct investment. ties and technological competitiveness sia,” the bilateral relationship between proficiency and well-developed funda- and state-owned enterprises. In the inter- From 2006 until March this year, a total of from Japan and Malaysia’s highly skilled Malaysia and Japan will be reinvigorated mental infrastructure in Malaysia, a greater est of disseminating high-quality rules, I 183 Japanese regional establishments in workforce and impressive investment and elevated to greater heights leading to variety of Japanese industries joined the hope that Malaysia will ratify this agree- Malaysia have been approved with invest- environment, sectors with high potential unparalleled development for both nations. movement, including automakers, chemi- ment as soon as possible. cal companies, retailers and financial Regarding the Regional Comprehensive institutions. Economic Partnership (RCEP), in March Under the Look East Policy that was this year, I expressed support for ASEAN’s launched in 1982 by Prime Minister Maha- policy of concluding this agreement by the Past and present of Malaysia-Japan relations thir Mohamad, during his first stint as end of the year on the premise that appro- prime minister from 1981 to 2003, coop- priate levels of quality will be secured. For Hiroyuki Ishige tions Japanese SMEs are most interested eration proceeded in economic matters, For example, the Malaysia Digital Econ- its part, Japan has continued to actively Chairman and CEO of Japan External in to expand their business, and many are including human resource development omy Corporation and the Japan External engage in negotiations in order to finalize Trade Organization considering entry to the market. And this and technology transfers. In particular, Trade Organization have been cooperating a high-quality RCEP in cooperation with interest has only grown since the change skilled Malaysian workers who were in promoting matching between startup ASEAN at a time when the RCEP negotia- On behalf of the Japan External Trade in government. Given Malaysia’s high sent to Japan under this policy acted as companies from the two countries since tions are attracting increased attention Organization (JETRO), I extend my heart- income levels within Southeast Asia, a a bridge for the two countries’ economic 2016. I am looking forward to further devel- amid the growing worldwide concerns felt congratulations on the inauguration of growing number of Japanese companies relationship. opment of the economic relationship over protectionism. For example, in July, the Mahathir administration and appoint- are keen to export agricultural products Currently, around 1,400 Japanese compa- through such reciprocal activity. Japan hosted a ministerial RCEP-related ment of Darell Leiking as the minister of and food to the country or enter its mar- nies are operating in Malaysia. These com- In 2006, the Japan-Malaysia Economic meeting in Tokyo, which was the first such international trade and industry. ket to set up Japanese restaurants, which panies are making significant contributions Partnership Agreement (JMEPA) was meeting to be held outside ASEAN. It is With the 14th general election on May 9, are very popular in the country. In this to Malaysia’s economic development with put into force as an initiative to further very significant that by promoting such a change in government was seen for the regard, we at JETRO help create busi- the creation of approximately 340,000 jobs enhance the economic relationship activities, Japan and Malaysia will continue first time in Malaysian history. The voter ness opportunities in new fields, such as and conducting business with, and trans- between the two countries. Through the to increase the sophistication and depth of turnout exceeded 80 percent, reflecting by matching Japanese companies with ferring technologies to, Malaysian compa- enforcement of the JMEPA, which covers a their partnership and play leading roles in the will of the people. Malaysian startups. nies, among other activities. broad range of items and issues, including expanding cooperative relationships and Mahathir Mohamad, who served as the Regarding relations between our coun- Last year, the number of Malaysian tour- the liberalization of the flows of goods, cap- disseminating high-quality economic rules fourth prime minister from 1981 to 2003, tries, we have to keep in mind the strong ists visiting Japan rose to a record 440,000 ital and services, the improvement of the throughout Asia and across the globe. was appointed once more as the seventh. ties on the trade side. Malaysia has been people, and the number is expected to business environment and cooperation in Japan and Malaysia have been cooperat- In 1981, Mahathir advocated what became at the forefront of free trade in Asia as grow further. At the same time, investment the automobile and other industrial sec- ing in various fields while developing good known as the Look East Policy. Based on it has consistently maintained an open in Japan by Malaysian companies is also tors, the value of trade between Japan and relationships at the bilateral and regional the premise that the secret to the suc- economic policy since its independence. increasing, as exemplified by the develop- Malaysia expanded to approximately ¥3.6 levels. I am committed to ensuring that cess and development of Japan, Korea Malaysia and Japan concluded the Japan- ment of a ski resort in Hokkaido and the trillion in 2017. Furthermore, the balance of Japan and Malaysia will grow together and and Taiwan lay in their labor ethics and Malaysia Economic Partnership Agree- opening of a luxury hotel in Kyoto. More- direct investment grew to approximately contribute to the economic development enthusiasm for learning and work, this ment in 2006 and are fellow signatories over, cooperation has begun in new fields. ¥1.6 trillion in 2017, reflecting an ever- of this region. policy called for Malaysia to incorporate merce and Industry, Malaysia, approxi- of the Comprehensive and Progressive these elements from the three countries mately 40 percent of all responding Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership to develop its own economy and society companies (184 valid responses) answered (TPP-11). Malaysia, like Japan, is deter- and establish an industrial foundation for that they intended to expand business in mined in its promotion of the Regional the country. Malaysia, an increased percentage from Comprehensive Economic Partnership At the helm of the Malaysian govern- the previous year. When including compa- (RCEP). I believe that we both bear the ment again, Mahathir visited Japan this nies expecting to maintain current levels, responsibility to play a leading role in pro- June on his first trip overseas, where he this ratio reaches 98 percent, while the moting free trade and forming new rules affirmed his intention to revive the Look ratio of companies intending to reduce to improve business reliability through the East Policy, saying, “I would like to con- business or withdraw is the smallest in facilitation of the TPP-11 and RCEP with tinue efforts to learn much from Japan and the past five years. Furthermore, over half high standards. realize sustainable growth by following plan to introduce technologies related to In strengthening ties between the two Japanese labor ethics and their working “Industry 4.0” into their products or ser- countries, economic or otherwise, noth- attitude.” vices. At the time of the prime minister’s ing is more important than people. Under With the foreign direct investment visit to Japan, he expressed eagerness the Look East Policy, the Malaysian gov- by Japanese companies amounting to to encourage Malaysian companies to ernment sent numerous students and approximately ¥1.6 trillion, for Malaysia, learn about the advanced technologies corporate trainees to Japan. Upon return- Japan is the largest investor in the manu- and experiences of Japanese companies. ing to the country after graduating from facturing industry, and the second-largest Including new fields such as big data, it is universities or finishing their programs at investor after neighboring Singapore expected that the cooperative relationship companies in Japan, those people have when also including the service industry. between Malaysia and Japan will continue gone on to take high positions in Japanese There are now about 1,400 Japanese com- to deepen in the future. companies and the Malaysian govern- panies in Malaysia, and they have been JETRO set up its office in ment, where they have played an active deepening the economic relationship in in 1958, just one year after Malaysia real- role in developing their country as a bridge every possible industry, such as electron- ized its independence and established dip- between both countries. I hope that an ics, automobiles and machinery, metals, lomatic relations with Japan. Since then, even stronger bilateral relationship will chemicals and services. we have been assisting Japanese small grow under the Look East Policy in the In a survey of Japanese companies and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in new era, so that we may see a rejuvena- in Malaysia conducted from January to entering Malaysia through our various tion in such person-to-person connections March by the Japan Chamber of Com- programs. Malaysia is one of the destina- between Malaysia and Japan. Japanese and Malaysian flags mida

PAGE: 7 8 | The Japan Times | Friday, October 5, 2018

Malaysia Special ( Sponsored content ) Strong, diverse economy has much to offer investors

It is often said that statistics only tell half the cal stability. The last election brought about reforms and accelerate its convergence materials, components, machinery and story, and for anyone interested in investing the country’s first change in government with high-income economies.” equipment. in Malaysia, it’s well worth taking a closer since Hari Merdeka — Malaysia’s indepen- One way the Malaysian authorities have Mahathir’s government has also report- look. dence day — in 1957. tried to achieve the goal of making the edly said that it is mulling tax breaks for key According to the International Institute That change has brought some uncer- country an important gateway into the foreign investors who can guarantee the for Management Development’s (IMD) tainty both at home and abroad. Association of Southeast Asian Nations’ creation of better-paying jobs for Malaysian World Competitiveness Rating, the Malay- Some of this relates to new policies and market is by offering an array of investment nationals. sian economy was the 22nd most competi- the cancelation of large China-backed infra- incentives. Another attractive feature is Malaysia’s tive market in the world — eighth if the structural projects by the government of In the manufacturing and services seg- well-developed infrastructure and business parameters are limited to countries with a newly elected Prime Minister Mahathir ment, it offers pioneer company status, facilities, including fully integrated industrial population of over 20 million. Mohamad. The World Bank, in its July allowing income tax exemption of between parks such as the Kulim Hi-Tech Park, a self- Of the 63 nations surveyed for the IMD’s Malaysia Economic Monitor Report, stated 70 percent and 100 percent for five to 10 styled “Global Science City” in the state of World Competitive Yearbook 2018, Malay- that policy changes introduced in line with years. It also offers investment tax allow- . sia was also listed as the 10th most digitally Mahathir’s election mandate would need ances of 60 to 100 percent on qualifying According to MISC’s Yee, a potential competitive nation. to be “managed carefully to minimize addi- capital expenditure. growth area is the ever-growing e-com- Meanwhile, The World Bank ranked it tional risks to the economy.” As part of Malaysia’s efforts to rebrand merce sector and warehouses to store the 24th easiest country out of 190 in the Meanwhile, however, Malaysia’s new its image as a high tech and global activities e-commerce goods. While Singapore is world to do business — placing it above the leaders have made it clear that Kuala Lum- center, there are investment incentives spe- clearly ahead in this sector, it will eventu- likes of Japan, France, Belgium, the Nether- pur still welcomes foreign investors with cifically targeting new and emerging tech- ally run out of space. To this, he added that lands and China. open arms and, what’s more, has much to nologies such as high technology-intensive Asia is also in need of a hub for oil and gas Additionally, Malaysia placed 14th in offer them. industries and the setting up of regional services. Global Finance magazine’s ranking of “I would like to take this opportunity,” operations. “It’s not just about manufacturing in countries doing the most to attract foreign said Darell Leiking, Malaysia’s minister of Biotechnology, agriculture and shipping Malaysia anymore, but being more creative direct investment, just one place below the Malaysia is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. getty images international trade and industry, when and transportation are among other indus- and seeing how the world is changing,” he United States. addressing business leaders in Kuala Lum- tries for which incentives are available. said. “It’s not just about infrastructure, either, An even more compelling picture is of raw materials such as rubber and palm said Yee Yang Chien, president and group pur on Aug. 13, “to reiterate and provide Among other exemptions are accelerated it’s people; big organizations setting up their revealed through the World Economic oils into a diversified economy whose larg- CEO of international energy-related mari- assurance that Malaysia will continue to be capital allowance, infrastructure allow- bases and operating out of Malaysia. We Forum’s latest Global Competitiveness est sector is services, which account for 54 time solutions and services provider MISC an open economy with a business friendly ance and import duty exemptions on raw have all the ingredients to help set this up.” Report, which places Malaysia as the 23rd percent of GDP. Berhad. “Back then there was a migration of environment, and MITI (Ministry of Inter- most competitive of 137 nations ranked, up According to the Malaysian Invest- manufacturing to the East, so we were in a national Trade and Industry) will strive to two places from 2017. The southeast Asian ment Development Authority, in order sweet spot. We can no longer compete with work hard in making Malaysia the pre- nation has shown year-on-year increases for Malaysia to continue its march toward countries such as Vietnam and Cambodia ferred investment destination and among Fair features authentic Malaysia in almost all areas measured by the WEF, gaining “developed nation” status, “greater that are now able to supply manufactured the most globally competitive trading including business confidence, industrial emphasis should be targeted on the devel- products a lot cheaper than us. But one nations in the world.” Malaysia Fair Tokyo 2018 will be held and manufacturing production and auto opment of the services sector to serve as way we can compete is by investing in the Trade, he added is “our lifeline” and from Nov. 2 to 4. production. the engine of growth to propel and sustain human element.” “central to our vision” to join the ranks of The fair, which is free of charge, will The stats emphatically indicate that the economy.” Indeed, officials have pointed to Malay- advanced developed nations. “With our take place in the Mizu no Hiroba area of Malaysia can rightly boast a healthy busi- The growth of the services sector is one sia’s educated and talented workforce trade to gross domestic product ratio of 136 Shinjuku’s Chuo Park. It is the first such ness environment, even if they are no of the telltale signs that one of the long- as being among its major selling points. percent, naturally the government will con- event following the celebration of the match for the country’s heyday when, in revered tiger cub economies of Asia has Additionally, its championing of creativity tinue the practice of an open economy to 60th anniversary of Japan-Malaysia dip- the 1980s and ‘90s, Malaysia’s average gross grown into a shrewd adult, despite, or argu- and innovation, as well as its strategic loca- encourage and facilitate businesses,” he said. lomatic relations last year. domestic product growth was 6.7 percent, ably, because of its annual GDP growth fall- tion, linked to its proximity to the main Outside the leadership, too, there appears It features a variety of attractions such Malaysian Embassy. It is supported by peaking in 1996 at 10 percent, making it one ing to an average of about 1.2 percent since Asian markets, are touted as other notable to be optimism over what this new era of as stage performance of traditional arts, Shinjuku Ward, in cooperation with TV of the best-performing economies in the 2000, according to Malaysia’s Department points. Malaysia’s economic history could deliver. experiential workshops of traditional Asahi. region. The stats suggest that is a status it of Statistics. Yet, while Global Finance magazine cited The World Bank’s Malaysia Economic crafts and Malaysian cuisine. still enjoys. “In the 1980s and ‘90s we were on a steady growth as a main reason for Malay- Monitor report noted that “Malaysia is The fair is organized by Administra- For more information, visit In recent years, Malaysia has successfully manufacturing drive and growing rapidly, sia’s stellar performance in its global FDI entering into a new period that offers tive Office of Malaysia Fair, led by the www.malaysiafair.jp transformed itself from being an exporter but I think we have matured since then,” Superstars survey, it also mentioned politi- an opportunity to strengthen structural

PAGE: 8 Friday, October 5, 2018 | The Japan Times | 9

( Sponsored content ) Malaysia Special MISC on moving energy to build a better world

MISC Berhad is a leading provider of inter- available worldwide and is the most practi- national energy-related maritime solutions cal fuel for us to switch to because it has zero and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lum- NOx, zero SOx and carbon reduction of about pur, its core businesses include energy ship- 30 percent. Today, the bunker system is devel- ping which largely covers liquefied natural oped around supplying diesel. The challenge gas (LNG), petroleum and product shipping for us in the industry and the whole ecosys- and its related activities, owning and operat- tem is getting infrastructure available so that ing offshore floating solutions, marine repair ships can refuel with LNG. and conversion, as well as heavy engineering and construction. This year marks 50 years Has this in any way altered your corporate since the company’s inception and The Japan vision? Times interviewed Yee Yang Chien, MISC Our vision statement is to consistently president and group CEO, to find out how provide better energy related maritime solu- the company has evolved and its ongoing ties tions and services. It is not about wanting with Japan. to be the largest, the biggest, the best, but a humble vision of trying to do something bet- How has the company evolved over the past ter every day. It’s a rallying call to employees. 50 years? We believe if everyone can do that, the results We started off in 1968 to support trade and will be good. So it’s all about doing a little bit of economic development and at the same time everything better to help reduce our carbon promote the maritime sector for Malaysia. footprint. In 1997, MISC became part of the Petronas Yee Yang Chien, MISC president and group Group — Malaysia’s national oil company. CEO misc Your ties with Japan date back more than 30 Naturally through time, we have been shaped years, how did that start? by the changes in the industrial landscape, the world. This is a call to our own vision and It started off on a government-to-govern- whether that is global maritime changes, or mission, which is about sustainability. Operat- ment basis when Japan was looking for a economically or how trade actually flows. So, ing our business in a responsible manner and reliable, sustainable source of LNG to power we have evolved and realized that the global minimizing our impact on the environment the power sector and Malaysia with its abun- shipping industry is one that is very asset- whenever possible is vital for us as we operate dance of gas was a natural partner. At the time, intensive, requiring lots of investment before in a highly regulated industry. our prime minister — who is also our current Seri Cemara, MISC’s fifth liquefied natural gas carrier, is part of a new generation of shipping vessels. misc we can generate revenues. Today we are We take it one step further beyond ensur- leader — had a “Look East Policy” and he has known within the global shipping fraternity ing our compliance by taking proactive mea- always admired the ethics and the culture of pride comes passion and I think passion is the continue to do that even as the LNG trade engineers. I see that there is opportunity for as one of the strongest in terms of our exper- sures to manage our impact and emissions the Japanese. most important energy for any employee. changes, but beyond moving LNG into Japan, us to expand this platform and go beyond just tise and commitment to our customers and as well as in energy efficiency. Our approach Petronas went into a long-term gas sup- The tag line for our 50th anniversary is about it would be great to partner with Japan in training them for life at sea and prepare them partners. largely focuses on reducing our carbon foot- ply between Japan and Malaysia and in fact “People. Passion. Possibilities” and we see a lot developing things for the global stage. So, for for other projects in the future that might go print, waste management and biodiversity Japan’s big gas buyers today still call us the of that here. example, if you are going to promote using beyond their career at sea. That is something Has your core approach changed along the protection through our operations and Malaysian Project. And to move energy sup- LNG as fuel for ships in the global shipping we are looking at very closely as part of our way? implementation of the latest technology that ply you need ships, so that’s how we came How has MISC been able to contribute to industry then perhaps we can come together, initiative to attract the next generation of When we first started we had various supports sustainable shipping. Apart from onboard. Over the past 30 years we have built Japan? pool our resources to develop a solution youth who will become the future leaders of streams of business, which cut across multiple that, we also emphasize on the inculcation of strong ties and today we are perhaps one of I am proud to share with you that MISC and prove to the world that it could work. the industry. aspects of shipping, from container shipping environmental awareness and consciousness the largest non-Japanese LNG mover to Japan. delivered the first LNG cargo from Malaysia We definitely could not do that alone as it Beyond maritime education, MISC rec- to dry bulk and LNG, oil and chemical prod- among our employees. to the Sodegaura Terminal, Japan in 1983 and would require the re-engineering of the entire ognizes the importance of attracting and ucts. Along the way we decided that the com- What has made that relationship work so today, we deliver approximately 90 percent of bunker supply infrastructure. This would retaining the talent within our company and pany should focus on energy supply and build Can you tell us about that technology? well? the LNG cargo from Malaysia to the terminals be something we could do collaboratively we provide ample choices of career paths for our core capabilities around the energy space. Over time, engine makers have started If you look at the values of the Japanese in Japan, which amounts to over 300 million because it’s something we believe could pos- sea and shore staff, as well as opportunities But obviously things are rapidly changing producing much more efficient engines, a people and some of our values as an organiza- metric tons of LNG. The collaborative partner- sibly be a reality in the near future. for movement within the organization to with the way that energy is being produced result originally of oil prices going above $100 tion, there are lots of parallels. For instance, it’s ships that we have built with our stakeholders shape their skills and enrich their workplace and shipped and because of considerations per barrel (in 2008), which was expensive for not always about dollars and cents it’s about in Japan are the cornerstone of our success Tell us about your workforce and how you experience. for the environment, we are also taking those everyone. Because of that we always try to relationships, forging a sustainable partner- in delivering LNG exports to this country train them. As we continue to chart our path towards things into account. put the best in our ships and that has helped ship, being able to talk things through and throughout the years. We pride ourselves on The traditional way to train a workforce the future, MISC is committed to our credo of to make changes in other areas, in terms of willingness to compromise. Each of us has a our relentless drive to deliver on our promise is through technical skills, but we believe it consistently doing it better in order to position How are you evolving with regards to those how the whole ship is built, making it more financial and economic objective, of course, without fail and we are here for the long-term. should be more holistic, including teaching ourselves, as well as the shipping industry to environmental issues? efficient, consuming less energy. So it’s about a but I think it’s the spirit of partnership and tak- them soft skills and leadership skills. But at the the outside world as an industry that actively little bit of everything that when added up has ing a long-term view that are key. And then Are you hoping to grow this relationship? core of that, because we are a shipping com- supports the thriving global economy, oper- It doesn’t matter which industry you are a huge impact. there is pride in Japanese employees in the We have been supporting the energy sup- pany, we have our own maritime academy ate responsibly, as well as provide a rewarding in, each of us has a role to play to preserve We are also a big believer in LNG, which is way they discharge their duties. I think with ply chain in Japan for three decades and will where we train our own captains and chief and safe career at sea and at shore. Stable industrial development domestically and abroad

The Malaysian Investment Develop- of industrialization — mapping out the key government agencies are stationed at 12 regional offices throughout Malaysia ment Authority (MIDA) is the principal appropriate strategies, coordinating the MIDA’s headquarters in Kuala Lumpur to to meet investors on the ground level to promotion agency under the Ministry of activities of the relevant organizations in advise investors on government policies assist them with the implementation International Trade and Industry (MITI) the public sector and promoting Malaysia and procedures. These representatives and operation of their projects. The 12 to oversee and drive investments into the to industrialists at home and abroad. include officials from the Department regional offices around the country are manufacturing and services sectors in Extending facilitation to investors for of Labour, the Immigration Depart- in , , Pulau Pinang, Kedah Malaysia. MIDA acts as the first point of the realization and operation of their ment, Royal Malaysian Customs Depart- and , , , , contact for those seeking to invest in the projects forms an integral part of MIDA’s ment, the Department of Environment, , Melaka, , country. function other than undertaking plan- Telekom Malaysia Berhad and Tenaga and . Incorporated as a statutory body under ning, promotion and assessment of license Nasional. The vast number of industrial establish- the Malaysian Industrial Development applications and incentives for compa- MIDA also has a global network of 20 ments humming along efficiently through- Authority Act, the establishment of MIDA nies to set their bases in Malaysia. MIDA overseas offices covering the Americas out the country is testimony to MIDA’s in 1967 was hailed by the World Bank as handholds investors right from their initial (three offices), Europe (six offices), Asia milestones. Today, Malaysia has attracted “the necessary impetus for purposeful, inquiries until the realization of their proj- (nine offices), the Middle East (one office) over 8,000 companies that include multi- positive and coordinated promotional ects, as well as assists them to solve issues and Oceania (one office) directly engag- national corporations from more than 40 action” for Malaysia’s industrial develop- affecting their company’s operations in ing with potential and existing foreign countries that have made Malaysia their ment. Since then, MIDA has been at the the country. investors. Of the overseas offices, it has offshore location for manufacturing and center of industrial development in the To further enhance MIDA’s role in assist- two offices in Tokyo and Osaka. In addi- related services operations. The indirect country. It specializes in the promotion ing investors, senior representatives from tion, MIDA officers are stationed at its result of these projects, from both big and small and foreign and local companies, have generated far more jobs and business opportunities in the industrial and manu- facturing sectors. This includes spin-off to Kuala Lumpur skyline mida other sectors such as hotels and tourism, real estate, logistics, retail, health care, edu- anniversary last year, underscoring its con- from the technology revolution of this era. cation and banking and insurance. tinuous role as a strategic partner to busi- The emphasis now is on embracing the The organization celebrated its 50th nesses in seizing the opportunities arising digital future, nurturing local businesses to become global champions through inte- grating into the international supply chain, as well as creating more skilled job oppor- tunities for Malaysian talent. MIDA continues to leverage on an eco- system approach in promoting invest- ments and developing targeted industries. The ecosystem approach involves devel- oping every part of the value chain in the targeted sectors. When a gap is identified in the value chain, MIDA will facilitate targeted investments to fill the gap. The agency believes that this approach is the best way to retain investors as a strong ecosystem offers a more sustainable rea- son for companies to remain and grow in Malaysia. The agency trusts that sustainable investments depend extensively on a vibrant talent pool, a knowledge-based economy, robust investor protection, healthy interconnected upstream and downstream industries, and other factors that are the precursor for competitive advantages. With these unique strengths, Malaysia continues to offer a conducive Kuala Lumpur Monorail mida landscape for businesses to thrive.

PAGE: 9 10 | The Japan Times | Friday, October 5, 2018

Malaysia Special ( Sponsored content ) KHTP paves way for Japanese firms in Southeast Asia

Malaysia continues to be an attractive des- operations there (KTPC) helped us to set up our operation tination for foreign direct investment from two years later, so much faster in Kulim Hi-Tech Park.” around the world, especially Japan. cites the “overall KTPC, which develops and manages The trend has been reinforced, espe- infrastructure and KHTP, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the cially after Mahathir Mohamad became ecosystem,” and Kedah State Development Corp. KTPC prime minister for the second time in May “fast and readily has developed KHTP as a greenfield area, a after having held the same position from available logistics well-integrated science park. Careful plan- July 1981 to October 2003. He initiated the solutions” as rea- ning of the project by the government has “Look East Policy,” influenced by Japan sons for running helped create a development that balances during his first stint and is likely to revive it its magnetic disk work, life and the environment while during his second. and semiconductor bringing tremendous benefits to investors According to the latest figures from business from the park. and the local population. Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, direct One of the major advantages of invest- There are six zones throughout the investment from Japan in Malaysia totaled ing in KHTP is the access to a talented park: industrial; urban; housing; institu- $887 million in 2016 and initiatives such labor pool. tional; amenity (such as a golf course); as the Kulim Hi-Tech Park (KHTP) have More than 70 percent of the workers and research and development, and train- helped to smooth the way for Japanese come from Kedah. The federal govern- ing. Green reserves have also been inte- companies looking to set up shop in the ment has been supporting the coun- grated into the plan. This zoning allows Southeast Asian nation. try’s labor force in acquiring necessary people to work and live in a pleasurable KHTP is a strategic national economic industrial-sector skills, with emphasis on environment. development. Located in northern Malay- technology. More than 1,760 hectares of land at sia in the state of Kedah, which includes Another advantage is the access to key KHTP has been developed, with a further the resort island of Langkawi and borders markets in the Asia-Pacific region that 2,000 hectares set to be developed in the Thailand, KHTP is partially funded by the Malaysia can provide through its geo- KHTP Master Plan 2. With a large area of federal government and administered by graphic location and as a member of the flat land, the opportunities for investment the Kedah state government. Association of Southeast Asian Nations. are ripe. Prime industrial land is available Since its opening as Malaysia’s first high- Under normal traffic conditions, KHTP is for long-term lease, while commercial tech science park in 1996 and welcoming just about 40 minutes from Inter- space at several purpose-built centers can its first client, the U.S. chip making com- national Airport. According to airport oper- be rented. Kulim Hi-Tech Park is home to many multinational companies’ factories and research and development centers. khtp puter technology giant Intel Corp., KHTP ator Malaysia Airports Holdings, Penang Adding to the incentives to invest in has attracted a wealth of multinational can handle around 6.5 million passengers KHTP is the fact that this prime industrial for organizations to establish branches to the flowers and among the birds of the companies. industrial tenants such as German com- and 360,000 tons of cargo a year. Looking land comes already leveled, so construc- serve people in the high-tech park and sur- Gunung Inas tropical rainforest, and its These are some of the many reasons for pany Osram GmbH, Infineon Technologies at Penang International Airport’s limited tion can start immediately on the facilities rounding areas. wealth of flora and fauna. Both attractions Japanese investors to consider KHTP, but AG, Fuji Electric Co. and Panasonic Corp. capacity, the state of Kedah has proposed in mind. With the flexibility that comes Among other perks of doing business at are a short drive from KHTP. above all, Malaysia and the Kulim Tech- Japanese businesses are the major inves- a new international airport to be built near with an abundance of land, the high-tech the park are the intangible attractions of The state of Kedah, coincidentally, is nology Park Corp. as a park developer are tors at KHTP, with a presence of 11 com- KHTP. This airport will be linked through a park can cater to the spatial needs of each Kedah State itself, such as cultural, natural known as the rice bowl of Malaysia since looking forward to welcoming more Japa- panies at the park. Panasonic has set up highway to the KHTP industrial zones. tenant. and historical sites. it is the major producer of the grain in the nese investors to make KHTP their first Panasonic Energy Malaysia at Kulim High- Moreover, the stable political environ- The prime office space and buildings for A well-known destination to those even country. choice investment destination. The large Tech Park as its solar manufacturing base. ment with complete support from local rent at KHTP offer even more options for from outside Malaysia, Langkawi is perfect Support for Japanese companies is number of Japanese investors in KHTP is There are also other Malaysian subsidiaries and federal governments also adds to the those wishing to conduct business in this for a day trip or as a holiday getaway. The prevalent throughout Malaysia. Among further proof that it is a secure and stable of Japanese companies such as Fuji Electric incentives for investing in KHTP. park. These spaces can be rented by com- island resort is also home to the Langkawi the recent visitors to KHTP was the Japa- place to invest in. Malaysia, Fuji Logistics Malaysia, Fujimi- These were among the elements Pana- panies while awaiting the completion of UNESCO Global Geopark. nese Chamber of Trade and Industry, As Malaysia and Japan mark the 60th Micro Technology, Hamadatec, Hoya sonic pointed out when talking about the their facilities, so they can continue their For those who like to add a spice of Malaysia (JACTIM), which on May 17, anniversary of the establishment of diplo- Electronics, Showa Denko HD Malaysia, ease of setting up its business at KHTP: business activities with minimal disrup- adventure to their nature activities, the 2017 conducted a research mission on the matic relations, perhaps now is the perfect Tomoe Industrial Gas Malaysia, and Toyo- “Malaysia is very business-friendly, and tion. Companies that offer services to Sedim River offers whitewater rafting. In investment environment at KHTP. With opportunity to think about starting an Memory Technology. MIDA (the federal government’s Malay- park tenants are able to make use of this the same area, the longest treetop walk in such a strong and deep-rooted Japanese investment relationship with the KHTP to Fuji Electric Malaysia, which registered sian Investment Development Authority) office space, providing visibility and ease Malaysia, spanning 925 meters, will take presence in Malaysia, doing business in the foster the future development of Malaysia its business in KHTP in 1996 and started as well as Kulim Technology Park Corp. of access. The office space is also perfect you at elevations up to 26 meters through country has never been easier for Japanese and Japan.

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