The Malaysian French Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CCIFM) recently celebrated the strong business ties between France and Malaysia at its annual Gala Night, an event that not only highlighted the current economic partnership but also looked forward to its future potential. With France being Malaysia's third-largest trading partner within the European Union and bilateral trade reaching €5.28 billion in 2023, the Gala Night served as a testament to the flourishing relationship between the two nations.
Over 400 guests, including notable figures such as Datuk Zainal Amanshah, Mr. Richard Fostier, and H.E. Axel Cruau, gathered to celebrate the achievements and discuss the future of Franco-Malaysian business relations. The presence of YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia, underscored the event's importance in fostering bilateral economic cooperation.
The evening was marked by the presentation of the CCIFM Excellence Awards, recognizing contributions to the Franco-Malaysian business landscape across various categories. Winners like Decathlon, Nazsoft Tech, and Club Med exemplify the diversity and success of French businesses in Malaysia. As Malaysia prepares to chair ASEAN in 2025, the event also highlighted the opportunities for enhancing economic ties with Southeast Asia.
A significant CSR initiative announced at the Gala Night was the planting of 400 trees in the Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary, reflecting CCIFM's commitment to environmental sustainability. This project, in partnership with APE Malaysia, aims to preserve Malaysia's biodiversity while celebrating the Chamber's dedication to corporate social responsibility.
The success of the Franco-Malaysian business relationship is supported by a network of institutions, including the French Embassy and Malaysian agencies like MIDA and MATRADE, which facilitate trade and investment opportunities. The Gala Night, enriched by performances from Malaysian artists and gourmet cuisine, not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future collaborations, reinforcing the strategic partnership between France and Malaysia in the Asia-Pacific region.
