The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), in collaboration with Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), has successfully concluded the Market Immersion Programme to South Korea under MARA’s Gate to Global Programme, held in Seoul from 29 June to 1 July 2026.
The programme reaffirmed the shared commitment of MATRADE and MARA to accelerating the internationalisation of Malaysian companies by connecting them with strategic business opportunities in one of Asia’s most advanced and innovation-driven economies.
Strategic Collaboration to Support Export Growth
The mission forms part of the strategic collaboration between MATRADE and MARA following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 6 November 2025.
The partnership combines MATRADE’s expertise in international trade promotion with MARA’s entrepreneur development ecosystem to strengthen the export readiness of Malaysian companies while supporting their expansion into global markets through targeted business development initiatives.
Malaysian Companies Showcase High-Value Technologies
Five Malaysian companies participated in the programme, representing Malaysia’s High Growth High Value (HGHV) sector with expertise in:
- AI safety inspection solutions
- Software and artificial intelligence services
- Technical evaluation and endorsement for data centre development
- Remotely operated vehicle (ROV) services
- Smart mapping technologies
These companies reflect Malaysia’s growing capabilities in knowledge-based industries, offering innovative solutions that support digital transformation, industrial development and next-generation technologies across a wide range of sectors.
Business Matching Drives Commercial Opportunities
Throughout the three-day programme, participating companies engaged directly with Korean corporations, technology firms and prospective business partners through customised business matching sessions, company visits and market engagement activities organised by MATRADE Seoul.
The initiative introduced Malaysian capabilities to the South Korean market while providing participants with first-hand insights into industry trends, customer expectations and local business practices. It also enabled companies to identify collaboration opportunities and better position their solutions for long-term market entry.
Programme Generates More Than RM58 Million in Sales
The mission delivered encouraging commercial results, generating more than RM58 million in total sales.
The strong outcome reflects growing interest in Malaysian expertise and technology-driven solutions while demonstrating the ability of Malaysian companies to compete and create value in sophisticated international markets.
Beyond immediate commercial success, the programme also established a foundation for future collaborations through new business networks and strategic partnerships.
Commenting on the programme, MATRADE Chief Executive Officer Mr Abu Bakar Yusof said South Korea continues to present significant opportunities for Malaysian companies offering innovative products and specialised services.
“South Korea continues to offer significant opportunities for Malaysian companies with innovative products and specialised services. Through our collaboration with MARA, we establish effective platforms for Malaysian businesses to engage directly with key industry players, expand their international networks and unlock new commercial opportunities.”
He added that the programme’s positive outcomes demonstrate that Malaysian companies possess the expertise, capabilities and innovative solutions needed to compete in demanding overseas markets. MATRADE will continue supporting their international growth through strategic market access initiatives and business partnerships.
Advancing Malaysia’s Global Competitiveness
The Market Immersion Programme reflects the shared commitment of MATRADE and MARA to strengthening the international competitiveness of Malaysian companies through their complementary roles in export promotion and enterprise development.
Both organisations remain committed to empowering Malaysian businesses to expand beyond domestic borders, establish strategic global partnerships and seize new export opportunities. By nurturing export-ready companies, MATRADE and MARA aim to further position Malaysia as a competitive provider of innovative, high-value products and specialised services in the global marketplace.
