Melaka Corporation (MCorp) Presents Vision for Economic Growth and Foreign Investment to WEC Delegation
As part of the ongoing WEC Discovery Mission to Malaysia, TAPiO Management Advisory had the honour of facilitating a high-level visit to Melaka. The World Economic Council (WEC) delegation was formally received by key state leaders for a strategic dialogue on foreign direct investment and long-term industrial collaboration. The visit underscored Melaka’s positioning as a competitive and future-ready destination for German and European businesses seeking to expand into Southeast Asia.
The delegation was received by YB Datuk Khaidhirah binti Datuk Seri Abu Zahar, Deputy Chairman of Melaka Corporation (MCorp) and Deputy EXCO for Investment, Industry and TVET Development. In her presentation, YB Datuk Khaidhirah outlined Melaka’s comprehensive economic development strategy, emphasising the state’s ambition to serve as a trusted gateway to the ASEAN region. Her remarks focused on Melaka’s appeal as an investment location offering strategic access, robust infrastructure, and a talent pipeline supported by technical and vocational education.
The dialogue was further enriched by the participation of YBhg. Datuk Ginie Lim Siew Lin, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Melaka; YBhg. Datuk Mohd Yusof bin Abu Bakar, Chief Executive Officer of MCorp; and Mr. Jaibalan Harirajan, Director of MIDA Melaka. Together, they provided the WEC delegation with a well-rounded perspective on Melaka’s institutional support for investors, its prioritisation of sustainable development, and its openness to long-term partnerships with international stakeholders.
A key highlight of the engagement was the introduction of the German Technology Park (GTP), a flagship initiative currently in development under the leadership of the Chief Minister of Melaka, YAB Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh. The GTP aims to serve as a regional hub for German and European industries expanding into Southeast Asia, with a focus on high-value manufacturing, ESG compliance, and green energy integration. Although still in its early phases, the project reflects the state’s broader commitment to building investible, innovation-driven infrastructure for the future.
The WEC delegation was led by Mr. Peter Nussbaum, Chairman of the Internationaler Wirtschaftsrat – World Economic Council, and Mr. Bernhard Schutte, WEC Ambassador to Malaysia, Chapter Director for Southeast Asia, and Chairman of TAPiO Management Advisory. Both expressed their appreciation for the openness and clarity of Melaka’s investment vision, noting the professionalism of its state agencies and the alignment of interests between European businesses and Melaka’s economic roadmap.
“Melaka has clearly positioned itself as more than a historical state,” said Mr. Schutte. “It is forward-looking, structured, and ready to host the kind of industry that drives innovation and long-term value. German companies will find not only a location but also a partner here.”
The visit formed part of the broader WEC Discovery Mission, which aims to introduce key European stakeholders to Malaysia’s evolving investment landscape, policy environment, and business opportunities. For TAPiO, it was another step in supporting strategic dialogues that bring together decision-makers, create new bridges between continents, and enable structured, trust-based cooperation.
Melaka’s strong institutional leadership, integrated development approach, and cultural openness continue to place it among Malaysia’s most promising destinations for foreign direct investment. Melaka offers both vision and reliability for German and European firms looking to enter or grow in ASEAN, which is a rare combination in today’s fast-moving global economy.
