The 43^rd edition of the MAJECA – JAMECA Joint Conference was held at EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday, 1 September 2026. This edition of the Joint Conference, hosted by MAJECA and co-hosted by Japan-Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA) was themed “Malaysia–Japan Strategic Economic Partnership: Advancing Transformation, Deepening Partnerships, and Strengthening Resilience”.

The Joint Conference was graced by:

• YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia
• Mr Masuo Kuremura, Special Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Regional Head, Asia-Pacific
• H.E. Noriyuki Shikata, Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia

This conference saw the attendance of over 180 participants. The delegation from JAMECA comprised of Chief Executives, Managing Directors and Corporate Leaders of Japanese corporations from Japan, supported by their respective offices in Malaysia and across ASEAN was led by its President, Mr Tsuyoshi Nagano, Senior Executive Advisor, Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. The delegation from MAJECA was led by its President, Tan Sri Azman Hashim, Emeritus Chairman of AmBank Group. The MAJECA delegation comprised of Chief Executives, Managing Directors and Corporate Leaders of Malaysian companies including a strong delegation from the ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni (ASCOJA), led by Malaysia Governor and President of the Japan Graduates’ Association of Malaysia (JAGAM), Mr Gary Tang, cum Hon. Secretary of MAJECA.

The Conference highlighted Malaysia’s industrial base, efforts in attracting high-quality foreign direct investment, and accelerating digital and green transformation. The Conference discussed how Malaysia and Japan can jointly advance and deepen partnership across key sectors, including advanced manufacturing, semiconductors, renewable energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, and sustainable supply chains. This Joint Conference convenes at a critical juncture in the global economic order, where geopolitical conflict and fragmentation, geoeconomic realignments, and rapid technological disruption are reshaping regional production, trade, and investment patterns. The Joint Conference showcased Malaysia, who remains one of the most compelling destinations for growth and investment in the region, and that Japan remains the partner of depth, trust, and long-term orientation that Malaysian industry continues to value and choose.

The 43^rd MAJECA-JAMECA Joint Conference was made possible through the extensive efforts and cooperation from our co-host, Japan-Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA), the role-players, the able team of Dinmaz Audio Visual Services, EQ Hotel & the interpreters, participants and especially our partners namely:

• Silverlake Axis Sdn Bhd
• Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd
• the AmBank Group
• Scientex Berhad
• Eco World Development Group Bhd
• Pan Sarawak Holdings Bhd
• IJM Corporation Bhd
• TG Worldwide Sdn Bhd
• Farlim Group (Malaysia) Bhd
• YTL Corporation Bhd
• Hotel Equatorial (M) Sdn Bhd
• MAQO Engineering Sdn Bhd

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The Programme of the 43rd MAJECA-JAMECA Joint Conference can also be accessed by clicking here.

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Opening Ceremony

Tan Sri Azman Hashim,
President of Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) and
Chairman of the 43rd MAJECA Joint Conference delivered his opening remarks.

Mr Tsuyoshi Nagano,
President of Japan-Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA) and
Co-Chairman of the 43rd MAJECA Joint Conference delivered his opening remarks.

YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani,
Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia delivered his Keynote Address and then read the congratulatory message by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia.

H.E. Noriyuki Shikata,
Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia delivered his greetings to participants of the Joint Conference and read the congratulatory message by H.E.  Ms Sanae Takaichi, the Prime Minister of Japan.

Opening Ceremony Group Photo (from left-to-right):
Mr Masuo Kuremura, Special Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Regional Head, Asia-Pacific, Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal, Vice-President, MAJECA, Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President, MAJECA, YB Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani, Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia, H.E. Noriyuki Shikata, Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, Mr Tsuyoshi Nagano, President, JAMECA, Mr Masayuki Hyodo, Vice-President, JAMECA.

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Special Session
Japan’s Growth Strategy

H.E. Noriyuki Shikata,
Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia delivered a presentation.

Mr Masuo Kuremura,
Special Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Regional Head, Asia-Pacific delivered his presentation.

Mr Hiromitsu Narukama, President, Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM) delivered his presentation.

Special Session Group Photo (from left-to-right):
Mr Masuo Kuremura, Special Advisor to the Minister, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Regional Head, Asia-Pacific, H.E. Noriyuki Shikata, Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia, and Mr Hiromitsu Narukama, President, Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM).

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Plenary Session 1
Advancing Technology & Industrial Transformation

(from left-to-right) Tan Sri Rastam Mohd Isa, Executive Committee Member of MAJECA, Dato’ Tony Ling, Chief Executive Officer, IJM Land Berhad, Mr Masanori Sugiura, Operating Executive Officer, Head of Corporate Legal, IP & Public Affairs Headquarters, Audit Dept., DENSO Corporation, Dr Goh Peng Ooi, Founder & Executive Chairman, Silverlake Axis Sdn Bhd & President of AI Malaysia, and Mr Atsushi Kimura, Business Development Division, Country Manager, Malaysia, IHI Corporation.

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Plenary Session 2
Deepening New Value Chain Partnerships

(from left-to-right) Mr Masaharu Morita, Head of New Business, Medical Div., FUJIFILM Corporation, Mr Masayoshi Saito, Managing Director, Mitsui Fudosan (ASIA) Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal, Vice-President, MAJECA, Ms Chean Pei Chen, Head, Wholesale Banking Coverage, Financial Institutions Group & Supply Chain Finance, AmBank Group, and Mr Azril Rashid, Chief Operating Officer, Bukit Bintang City Centre, cum Head, Integrated & Eco Hubs, Eco World Development Group Berhad.

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Plenary Session 3
Strengthening Supply Chain Resilience

(from left-to-right) Mr KuiSheng Su, President, Sojitz (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Mr Ooi Beng Guan, Deputy CEO, Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Bhd, Prof. Dr. Maki Tsujimura, Dean, School of Transdisciplinary Science and Design, University of Tsukuba, Malaysia (UTMy), Mr Lim Jin Feng, Joint Managing Director, Top Glove Corporation Berhad, and Mr Mitsuru Izumo, President and Representative Director, Euglena Co., Ltd.

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Closing Ceremony

Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal, Vice-President, MAJECA delivered the Closing Remarks.

Mr Masayuki Hyodo, Vice-President, JAMECA delivered the Closing Remarks and announced the 44th JAMECA-MAJECA Joint Conference in Japan in 2027.

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Dinner

Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President, MAJECA delivered the Welcome Remarks for the Dinner and hosted the entertainment by the University of Malaya Orchestra, led by Prof. Nasir.

Mr Tsuyoshi Nagano, President, JAMECA delivered the Thank You Speech at the end of the Dinner.

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PHOTO GALLERY

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NEWSPAPER ARTICLES

The 43rd MAJECA – JAMECA Joint Conference has been covered in the following:

1. Kerjasama Malaysia-Jepun semakin penting, di sebalik dominasi kuasa besar dunia, Buletin TV3, https://www.buletintv3.my/nasional/kerjasama-malaysia-jepun-semakin-penting-di-sebalik-dominasi-kuasa-besar-dunia/
2. AS Dijangka Umum Hasil Siasatan Lebihan Kapasiti Dalam Tempoh Empat Minggu – Johari, BernamaBiz, https://www.bernamabiz.com/news-bm.php?id=2601585
3. Dijangka umum hasil siasatan lebihan kapasiti dalam tempoh 4 minggu, Berita Harian, https://www.bharian.com.my/berita/nasional/2026/09/1614215/dijangka-umum-hasil-siasatan-lebihan-kapasiti-dalam-tempoh-4-minggu
4. Malaysia-Japan trade rises 12pc, New Straits Times, https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2026/09/1523333/malaysia-japan-trade-rises-12pc
5. Malaysia-Japan trade up 11.8% to US$23.3 bil in January-July 2026, says minister, The Edge Malaysia, https://theedgemalaysia.com/node/816395
6. Johari Ghani: US forced labour issue resolved, excess capacity still pending, Malay Mail, https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2026/09/01/johari-ghani-us-forced-labour-issue-resolved-excess-capacity-still-pending/233510
7. Ambassador Shikata Attends the 43rd MAJECA-JAMECA Joint Conference, Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, https://www.my.emb-japan.go.jp/itpr_en/newinfo_09092026.html

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In conjunction with the 43rd MAJECA-JAMECA Joint Conference, the Japan Graduates’ Association of Malaysia (JAGAM) had invited MAJECA to its JAGAM-ASCOJA Networking Dinner on 2 September 2026 at Zezz Residence hosted by JAGAM Hon. Patron, Dr Goh Peng Ooi, Vice-President, MAJECA. The Dinner was graced by H.E. Noriyuki Shikata, Ambassador of Japan to Malaysia.

(from left-to-right) Mr Samuel Loh, Programme Executive, MAJECA, Mr Sivavenayakam Velayutham, Executive Committee Member of MAJECA, Ms Ng Su Fun, Executive Secretary, MAJECA, Mr Gary Tang, Hon. Secretary, MAJECA and President of JAGAM, Tan Sri Rastam Mohd Isa, Executive Committee Member of MAJECA, Mr John Leong, Chairman of JAGAM Southern Branch, and Mr Shaun Chiam Khai Seong, Chairman of JAGAM Northern Branch.

The 49th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) convened on Wednesday, 26 August 2026 at the Boardroom, 26^th Floor, Bangunan Ambank Group, Jalan Raja Chulan, 50200 Kuala Lumpur.

The following were elected to the Executive Committee of MAJECA for the new term 2026-2027. 

Office Bearers

President: YBhg Tan Sri Azman Hashim

Vice-Presidents:

YBhg Dato’ Md Taib Abdul Hamid
YBhg Datuk Seri Mohamed Iqbal
YBhg Datuk Jason Tai Hee
YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Lodin Bin Wok Kamaruddin
Dr Goh Peng Ooi

Honorary Secretary: Mr Gary Tang Kok Lian

Honorary Treasurer: Mr Lim Peng Jin

Executive Committee Members

• YBhg Tan Sri Rastam Mohd Isa
• YBhg Dato’ Yeoh Seok Kian
• YBhg Tan Sri Dato’ Paul Koon Poh Keong
• Mr Yeonhang Chuah
• Mr Sivavenayakam Velayutham

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Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President & Chairman of the Meeting thanked all participants for attending the AGM.

The MAJECA 2025 – 2026 Annual Report can also be accessed by clicking here.

The Programme can also be accessed by clicking here.

The MAJECA 2025 – 2026 Annual Report can also be accessed by clicking here.

The 15th Asian Business Summit (ABS) was hosted by the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), and co-organised by the Japan Business Federation (KEIDANREN) on 30 July 2026 at Resorts World Convention Centre, Sentosa, Singapore with 11 Asian economic organisations from countries in Asia in attendance. The 15th ABS was organised with the theme, “Asia’s Next Growth Chapter: Digital, Green and Connected Futures”.

Group photo of the ABS leaders and heads of delegations with Guest-of-Honor, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment and Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, Ms Grace Fu, who delivered a Keynote Address titled “Asia in Transition: Building Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Growth”.

Malaysia’s delegation comprise Mr Gary Tang, Hon. Secretary, MAJECA and Dr Goh Peng Ooi, Hon. Treasurer, MAJECA, who were accompanied by Ms Ng Su Fun, Executive Secretary, MAJECA and Mr Samuel Loh, Programme Executive, MAJECA.

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The 15th Asian Business Summit Joint Statement
(via: https://www.keidanren.or.jp/en/policy/2026/042.html) is quoted below:

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The 11 economic organizations gathered in Singapore for the 15th Asian Business Summit on July 30, 2026, under the theme “Asia’s Next Growth Chapter: Digital, Green and Connected Futures”.

Uncertainty in the international environment has further increased against a backdrop of persistent protectionism and unilateralism, as well as instability in the Middle East. The rules-based, free and open international economic order and the broad and highly integrated supply chains that have underpinned Asian growth are facing significant challenges.

At the same time, in addition to climate change—an issue shared across Asia—the rapid evolution and widespread adoption of AI are bringing about discontinuous and unpredictable change in economic and social systems, along with new risks, thereby making it increasingly important to address these challenges.

We, the 11 economic organizations gathered at the summit, agreed to deepen cooperation toward sustainable prosperity in Asia, focusing on the following areas: (1) enhancing supply chain resilience and stability in Asia; (2) maintaining and strengthening the rules-based, free and open international economic order; (3) enhancing competitiveness through digital and AI-driven innovation; and (4) promoting initiatives toward achieving carbon neutrality.

In advancing these objectives, it is essential to continuously cultivate and develop talent in Asia that will drive regional competitiveness. To this end, it is of critical importance that the business communities of Asia work in closer coordination to further promote the exchange and development of human resources across the region.

1. Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience and Stability in Asia
Developments in the Middle East since February this year have led to global supply uncertainties and price increases in energy and resource markets, including for crude oil. These impacts have been especially pronounced in Asian countries and regions that rely heavily on imports from the Gulf states for the bulk of their energy supply, bringing vulnerabilities in supply chains into sharp relief.

Furthermore, industries in Asian countries and regions are closely interlinked through supply chains. Should disruptions to energy supply occur in any country or region, the impacts would propagate throughout the supply chain to the entire region. Given that Asia serves as a central hub of global supply chains, any stagnation or disruption in these supply chains could have significant impacts on the global economy.

Against this backdrop, the resilience and stability of supply chains in Asia should be enhanced through multiple cooperative frameworks including the Partnership On Wide Energy and Resources Resilience Asia (POWERR Asia),the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) and other multilateral energy and climate mechanisms, so as to reinforce stable energy supply systems, including the development of petroleum stockpiling systems.

In addition, it is important to promote the diversification of energy sources through the increased utilization of LNG and the expansion of renewable energy, as well as the diffusion of energy-efficient technologies and other innovative solutions, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of regional economies.
Furthermore, given that small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of Asian economies and are often the most exposed to energy price volatility and supply chain disruption, it is important to ensure that SMEs can fully participate in and benefit from efforts to strengthen the resilience of regional supply chains.

2. Maintaining and Strengthening the Rules-Based, Free and Open International Economic Order
Asia has established global supply chains and achieved economic growth by deepening regional economic integration through Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs), Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). To realize sustainable growth in Asia, it is essential to further develop and expand these trade frameworks and reinforce the economic foundations in the region. Such efforts will also contribute to build an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asian community.

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a large-scale FTA that accounts for approximately 30 percent of the world’s GDP, total trade, and population, and it plays a key role in strengthening supply chain resilience. In preparation for the General Review scheduled in 2027, efforts should be made to expand product coverage and accelerate the implementation timeline for tariff reduction, and to prevent trade-distortive measures.

With regard to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), membership should be expanded premised on the three principles. These comprise (1) meeting the high standards of the Agreement, (2) having a demonstrated pattern of complying with trade commitments, and (3) being admitted to the CPTPP by consensus among the current Members. At the same time, it is necessary to enhance the Agreement’s rules and strengthen cooperation with both ASEAN and the European Union.

The WTO-centered multilateral trading system remains key to maintaining and strengthening the rules-based, free and open international economic order, and WTO reform is therefore essential. More specifically, in addition to restoring dispute settlement mechanisms, it is essential to ensure a level playing field and incorporate the Agreement on Electronic Commerce as well as the Agreement on Investment Facilitation for Development into the WTO legal framework at an early stage.

3. Enhancing Competitiveness through Digital and AI Innovation
The utilization of digital technologies and AI is indispensable for improving productivity, creating new value and strengthening industrial competitiveness in Asia. In recent years, AI technologies such as generative AI, AI agents and physical AI have advanced significantly, and the application of AI in the scientific community (AI for Science) is also progressing rapidly. At the same time, new threats, such as increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks, are emerging, making it necessary for Asian countries and regions to cooperate in building a safe, secure, and trustworthy AI ecosystem under relevant international frameworks. In doing so, efforts to enhance AI governance are required under the principle of “human-centered AI,” while avoiding excessive regulation that could hinder innovation.

Moreover, the foundation for AI development lies in the accumulation and analysis of vast amounts of data, for which cross-border data flows are indispensable. To this end, it is important to continue cooperation to facilitate cross-border data flows, strengthen business and consumer trust in digital transactions, and ensure data protection and privacy. At the same time, efforts should be strengthened to develop internationally interoperable rules, and make the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions permanent.

4. Promoting Initiatives Toward Achieving Carbon Neutrality
Asia accounts for approximately half of global greenhouse gas emissions and plays a critical role in achieving global carbon neutrality. At the same time, electricity demand is expected to increase significantly due to rapid population growth and advances in digital technologies and AI, making it necessary to secure a stable and cost-effective energy supply. In this context, it is essential for Asia to simultaneously achieve decarbonization, economic growth, and energy security.

To address these challenges, it is important to promote realistic and diverse transition pathways that take into account the circumstances of each country and region. Making use of frameworks such as AZEC, policy coordination should be strengthened, and efforts made to further accelerate the development and implementation of country- and region-specific projects, such as projects utilizing LNG, hydrogen, ammonia and biofuel, or those expanding deployment of renewable energy.

In addition, efforts are required to realize a circular economy in Asia. By advancing institutional frameworks for proper waste management and recycling, countries and regions in Asia should aim both to address environmental challenges—including decarbonization and efficient resource utilization—and to ensure stable resource supply and more resilient supply chains.

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• Courtesy Call on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on 29 July 2026

On 29 July 2026, a Courtesy Call by the heads of delegation to the ABS on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong was held at The Istana. Mr Gary Tang, in his capacity as Head of the Malaysian delegation attended this meeting.

Credit: Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI)

A social media post by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/p/DbX_Fi4j_ke/?img_index=2&igsh=Nm0wdGFoNGZ0ZnVx

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• 15th Asian Business Summit on 30 July 2026 at Resorts World Convention Centre, Sentosa

Dr Goh Peng Ooi, Hon. Treasurer, MAJECA and President, AI Malaysia delivered his presentation at Plenary Session 3: “Creating Digital Asia – Interoperable, Trusted and Inclusive Digital Economy”.

Mr Gary Tang, Hon. Secretary, MAJECA delivered remarks at the Handover Ceremony for MAJECA / Malaysia to host the 16th Asian Business Summit in Kuala Lumpur in 2027.

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Photo Gallery:
Credit: Singapore Business Federation & MAJECA

The 6^th iDeas Xchange was jointly organised by the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) and the Malaysia South-South Association (MASSA) with Kolaxus, led by its CEO, Mr Sivavenayakam Velayutham, Executive Committee Member of MAJECA & MASSA on 24 June 2026 at Banquet Hall, Bangunan AmBank Group with the support of microLEAP.

Cognisant of the shared, and rising sentiment for corporate-startup convergence & partnership, for innovation, growth, collaboration, and exchange, the iDeas Xchange Series aims to facilitate and encourage networking, interactions, tie-ups and catalytic partnerships between corporate Malaysia and the Malaysian startup ecosystem.

A total of 75 participants comprising members of MAJECA and MASSA, the corporate business community, Government agencies, academia and the members of the startup ecosystem were present.

Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President of the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association  (MAJECA) & the Malaysia South-South Association (MASSA), and Chairman of the Malaysian South-South Corporation Berhad (MASSCORP) delivered the Welcome Remarks.

Mr Sivavenayakam Velayutham, CEO, Kolaxus and Executive Committee Member, Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) &
Malaysia South-South Association (MASSA)
delivered the kick-off remarks and moderated the Startup Sharing Session.

The following three speakers from growth-stage companies were identified by microLEAP, shared their respective businesses and partnership areas, modalities & opportunities:

Mr Dev Menon, Founder & CEO, dP Fluiteq Sdn Bhd

Mr Kevin Raj, CEO, VX Ventures Sdn Bhd

Mr Eric Ng Wuoi Uoi, Managing Director, Enapak Packaging Sdn Bhd

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Photo Gallery

MAJECA members, Mr Aiemaan Mohd Noor, Country Director and Mr Johan Julis, Director, both representing NEOREKA Asia Sdn Bhd, organised NEO Business Connect 2026 event on 13 May 2026 at KLGCC.

A subsidiary of NEOJAPAN, NEOREKA Asia is a full-fledged software company based in Malaysia, offering a range of products and services to transform companies into digitally inclined operations, including cloud applications, DX IT consultation, and desknet’s NEO, a unified customizable collaboration tool that allows professionals to communicate, work together and share information enhancing remote work productivity, amongst others.

MAJECA was represented by Mr Gary Tang, Hon. Secretary. NEO Business Connect 2026 was also graced by H.E. Noriyuki Shikata, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia who delivered a Welcome Address. The Closing Remarks was delivered by Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ir Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, Joint Chairman (Industry), Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT).

(from left-to-right) Mr Samuel Loh, Programme Executive, MAJECA, Mr Aiemaan Mohd Noor, Country Director, NEOREKA Asia Sdn Bhd & Member, MAJECA, Mr Gary Tang, Hon. Secretary, MAJECA, Tan Sri Datuk Dr Ir Ahmad Tajuddin Ali, Joint Chairman (Industry), MIGHT, Mr Hideki Karino, Director, Corporate Management, Neojapan Inc., and Ms Ng Su Fun, Executive Secretary, MAJECA.

MAJECA congratulates NEOREKA Asia Sdn Bhd for a successful organisation of the NEO Business Connect 2026.

MAJECA, represented by Ms Ng Su Fun, Executive Secretary, Mr Samuel Loh, Programme Executive and Ms Nur Syuhaida, Secretariat met with Dr Ahmad Shahir Abdul Aziz, Acting Chief Executive Officer, InvestPerak and Mr Shahriman Arif, Investor Relations Manager, InvestPerak at MAJECA Office on 9 April 2026.

(from left-to-right) Mr Samuel Loh, Programme Executive, MAJECA and Ms Nur Syuhaida, Secretariat, MAJECA, Ms Ng Su Fun, Executive Secretary, MAJECA, Dr Ahmad Shahir Abdul Aziz, Acting Chief Executive Officer, InvestPerak and Mr Shahriman Arif, Investor Relations Manager, InvestPerak.

InvestPerak expressed its intention to work with MAJECA to showcase the State of Perak’s investment potential, especially in the following sectors:

• Electrical & Electronics (E&E)
• Automotive
• Mineral-based (Downstream)
• Halal
• Chemical

The New Japan-Malaysia Industrial Cooperation Seminar was organised by the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, co-organised with Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) Kuala Lumpur, and in cooperation with Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA), Japan-Malaysia Economic Association (JAMECA) and Japanese Chamber of Trade and Industry, Malaysia (JACTIM) on 31 March 2026 at EQ Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

The Seminar was graced by YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chairman of Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary-General (Industry), Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and Mr KOMIYAMA Yasuji, Director-General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, and saw the participation of over 200 members of Government, industry, business, academia and media, from both Malaysia and Japan.

Following Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025 and the successful convening of the 3rd Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) Leaders Meeting, and the 28th ASEAN Japan Summit in 2025, attended by Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, Malaysia and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation, particularly in advancing Japan-led initiatives across ASEAN and enhancing economic security.

The Summit Meeting between Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Japan’s Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae, had both leaders emphasize the importance of deepening economic collaboration.

The New Japan-Malaysia Industrial Cooperation Seminar was organised with the aim to highlight key priority areas identified by the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy under Prime Minister Takaichi’s administration, and to further strengthen industrial cooperation & investment– between Malaysia and Japan.

The key priority areas encompass 17 strategic fields, and ranges from supply chain resilience, AI and semiconductors to natural resources, energy security and materials.

The Seminar featured three Plenary Sessions, namely:

1. Economic Security and Supply Chain,
2. Resource and Energy Security / Green Transformation (GX),
3. Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Semiconductor.

The discussions touched on deepening targeted bilateral collaboration in areas such as: decarbonisation (Carbon Capture and Storage), energy (hydroelectricity, nuclear, ammonia, LNG), rare earth, AI, semiconductors, human resource development, food security, cybersecurity, Anime, Comic & Game (ACG), healthcare, disaster management amongst many others.

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Opening

H.E. SHIKATA Noriyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia delivered the Opening Remarks.

YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry delivered his remarks.

YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) delivered his remarks.

Mr KOMIYAMA Yasuji, Director-General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan delivered his remarks.

Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President of the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA) delivered his remarks.

From left-to-right: Mr Hiromitsu Narukama, President, JACTIM, Prof. SUZUKI Kazuto, Graduate School of Public Policy, The University of Tokyo, and Member of the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, Mr KOMIYAMA Yasuji, Director-General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Tan Sri Azman Hashim, President of the Malaysia-Japan Economic Association (MAJECA), H.E. SHIKATA Noriyuki, , Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia, YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, YM Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister of Malaysia and Chairman of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary-General (Industry), Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and Mr KIKUCHI Yo, Senior Managing Director, Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

Panel Session 1: Economic Security and Supply Chain

Prof. SUZUKI Kazuto, Graduate School of Public Policy, The University of Tokyo, and Member of the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, delivered the Keynote Speech for Panel Session 1.

Panel Session 1 (from left-to-right) Session Moderator, Prof. Dr. Ong Kian-Ming, Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement, Taylor’s University, and Former Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Malaysia, Speakers: Mr KOMIYAMA Yasuji, Director-General for Trade Policy and Economic Cooperation, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) Japan, Prof. SUZUKI Kazuto, Graduate School of Public Policy, The University of Tokyo, and Member of the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, Mr KIKUCHI Yo, Senior Managing Director, Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Dato’ Prof. Ulung Dr Rajah Rasiah, Distinguished Professor, Asia-Europe Institute (AEI), Universiti Malaya, and Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Former Chairman of ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).

Panel Session 2: Resource and Energy Security / GX (Green Transformation)

Dr. TAKEUCHI Sumiko, Board Member and Senior Fellow, International Environment and Economy Institute (IEEI) Member of the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan delivered the Keynote Speech for Panel Session 2.

Panel Session 2 (from left-to-right) Session Moderator, Prof. Dr. Ong Kian-Ming, Pro Vice-Chancellor for External Engagement, Taylor’s University, and Former Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry, Malaysia, Speakers: Dr. TAKEUCHI Sumiko, Board Member and Senior Fellow, International Environment and Economy Institute (IEEI) Member of the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, Mr IZUMO Mitsuru, Founder, Euglena Co., Ltd., Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and Chief Executive Officer, Perodua, and Ms Marina Md Taib, Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy, PETRONAS.

Panel Session 3: Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Semiconductor

Mr ITO Ren, Member of the Expert Working Group on AI & Semiconductor, the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, and Co-Founder, Sakana AI delivered the Keynote Speech on Artificial Intelligence for Panel Session 3.

Dato’ Seri Wong Siew Hai, President, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA), Former Vice President of Technology and Manufacturing Group (TMG), and General Manager of Assembly and Test Manufacturing (ATM), Intel delivered the Keynote Speech on Semiconductors for Panel Session 3.

Panel Session 3 (from left-to-right) Session Moderator, Dr. MARU Yukihiro, Founder and CEO, Leave a Nest Co., Ltd., Speakers: Mr ITO Ren, Member of the Expert Working Group on AI & Semiconductor, the Council for Japan’s Growth Strategy, Government of Japan, and Co-Founder, Sakana AI, Mr TSUCHIYA Masaru, Member of the Expert Working Group on Realizing Green Transformation (GX), Government of Japan, and Partner, McKinsey & Company, Mr Goh Peng Ooi, President, AI Malaysia (AIM) and Hon. Treasurer of MAJECA, and Dato’ Seri Wong Siew Hai, President, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA), Former Vice President of Technology and Manufacturing Group (TMG), and General Manager of Assembly and Test Manufacturing (ATM), Intel.

Closing

H.E. SHIKATA Noriyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Malaysia delivered the Closing Remarks before inviting the participants to partake in the Networking Luncheon.

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Photo Gallery:

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Media, News Articles & Links:

1. Speech by YB Tuan Sim Tze Tsin Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia for New-Japan Malaysia Industrial Cooperation Seminar [31 March 2026] at https://www.miti.gov.my/miti/resources/Speech/New_Japan-Malaysia_Industrial_Cooperation_Seminar_YBTM_MITI_Remarks_Speech.pdf
2. Malaysia and Japan strengthen industrial partnership through strategic cooperation seminar, 31 March 2026, Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, https://www.my.emb-japan.go.jp/files/101005286.pdf
3. Malaysia and Japan strengthen industrial partnership through strategic cooperation seminar, 31 March 2026, Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), https://www.mida.gov.my/media-release/malaysia-and-japan-strengthen-industrial-partnership-through-strategic-cooperation-seminar/
4. Malaysia should bolster Japan ties to stay competitive globally, 2 April 2026, BERNAMA, https://www.bernama.com/en/news.php/?id=2540329
5. Malaysia reaffirms stable LNG supply to Japan amid global oil crisis, 1 April 2026, NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation), https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20260401_24/
6. Malaysia seeks deeper Japan ties, boosts semiconductor push, 31 March 2026, New Straits Times, https://www.nst.com.my/business/economy/2026/03/1407251/malaysia-seeks-deeper-japan-ties-boosts-semiconductor-push
7. Malaysia has high potential for enhanced cooperation in Japan’s strategic fields: Ambassador, 31 March 2026, BERNAMA, https://www.bernama.com/tv/news.php?id=2539529

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MAJECA congratulates the Embassy of Japan for the successful organisation of the New Japan-Malaysia Industrial Cooperation Seminar, and records its appreciation to the Embassy of Japan for inviting MAJECA to be cooperating organiser.