Strategic Engagement with the Prime Minister of Malaysia: Advancing German–Malaysian Economic Relations

Picture Credit: Izzuddin Abd Radzak / Prime Minister’s Office

Picture Credit: Izzuddin Abd Radzak / Prime Minister’s Office

Picture Credit: Izzuddin Abd Radzak / Prime Minister’s Office
As part of the WEC Discovery Mission 2025, TAPiO Management Advisory, together with the distinguished delegation from the Internationaler Wirtschaftssenat (IWS) – World Economic Council (WEC), had the honour of being received by the Honourable Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Also present were YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), YBrs. Puan Mastura Ahmad Mustafa, Deputy Secretary General (Trade) of MITI, Dr. Rashidi Said, Senior Director (Bilateral Economic and Trade Relations Division) of MITI, Dr Ang Li Ling, Director (Bilateral Economic and Trade Relations Division) of MITI, Mr Abu Zeid Bin Mod Arif, Director (Economic Affairs Division) of PMO, Mr Adlan Bin Mohd Shaffieq, Director of International Affairs Division and YBhg Datuk Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Their presence reflected Malaysia’s strong and consistent commitment to fostering high-level engagement with global business leaders, while reinforcing the nation’s ambition to be a leading hub for sustainable, innovation-driven investment.
The meeting underscored the enduring economic ties between Malaysia and Germany, with particular emphasis on the shared values of strategic cooperation, innovation, and sustainable development. Discussions explored avenues to strengthen collaboration and identified Malaysia as a compelling destination for German medium-sized enterprises, especially those looking to establish or expand operations in the ASEAN region.
This high-level dialogue further solidified Malaysia’s position as a gateway to ASEAN and a platform for mutually beneficial partnerships with Europe’s dynamic industrial base. It also reflected the depth of institutional alignment between Malaysia’s national agenda and WEC’s commitment to promoting ethical entrepreneurship, international cooperation, and inclusive economic progress.
Peter Nussbaum, Chairman of the Internationaler Wirtschaftssenat (IWS), remarked:
“The Honourable Prime Minister’s openness and strategic vision left a deep impression on our delegation. Malaysia clearly understands the needs of the German Mittelstand, particularly the importance of stability, skilled talent, and reliable infrastructure. We see Malaysia not only as an entry point to Southeast Asia, but as a trusted partner for long-term value creation.”
Mr. Bernhard Schutte, WEC Ambassador to Malaysia, Chapter Director for Southeast Asia, and Chairman of TAPiO, added:
“In an increasingly polarised world, Malaysia’s neutrality and global engagement make it one of the most trusted destinations in Asia. For the German Mittelstand, it offers the political stability of a nation that bridges East and West, like the Switzerland of Asia. This kind of balance is what long-term investors seek.”
TAPiO Management Advisory is proud to have facilitated this meaningful engagement and remains committed to building bridges between European industries and Malaysia’s strategic economic corridors. By enabling dialogues at the highest level, TAPiO continues to position Malaysia as a destination where vision, leadership, and opportunity converge.