The Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia (MBCC) celebrated its 30th anniversary on December 23, 2023, at NagaWorld 1, marking three decades of fostering bilateral economic growth and friendship between Malaysia and Cambodia.
The celebration dinner was attended by H.E. Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth and Sports, H.E. Datuk Eldeen Husaini Mohd Hashim, Ambassador of Malaysia to Cambodia, members of the MBCC and other distinguished guests.
During the event, the chamber donated USD $5,000 to the education ministry, gave out tokens of appreciation to all sponsors, and recognised MBCC members who demonstrated exceptional CSR and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) activities in 2023.
“As we celebrate 30 years of the Malaysian Business Chamber of Cambodia, we honour the profound friendship and bond between Malaysia and Cambodia,” said Oknha Tan Khee Meng, President of the MBCC. “Our partnership fosters commercial success and embodies shared cultural values and mutual respect. Together, we can navigate challenges and seize opportunities for a prosperous and promising future.”
A congratulatory message from Ambassador Hashim also expressed his confidence in the deep-rooted mutual understanding, strong camaraderie, and solidarity between the Embassy of Malaysia and the MBCC. He underlined that the strength of relations between Malaysia and Cambodia is reflected in the success of Malaysian business enterprises in the Kingdom.
“Throughout my tenure, since 2019, I have witnessed the growth [of Malaysian businesses], from 300 to 500 companies becoming established here in this wonderful country,” said Ambassador Hashim.
Malaysian Investment In Cambodia
The MBCC was originally founded as the ‘Malaysian Club’ in 1993 and transformed into a business chamber in 1997 in order to accommodate a growing entrepreneurial interest in Cambodia among Malaysians.
Malaysia continues to be one of the top sources of foreign direct investments (FDI) to the Kingdom. According to the MBCC, cumulative investments by Malaysian investors in Cambodia surpassed USD $3.2 billion by the end of 2022.
Over the past 30 years, the chamber has continued to play a pivotal role in facilitating the successful entry and expansion of Malaysian businesses in Cambodia, witnessing the establishment of a number of prominent Malaysian enterprises across various sectors, including Naga World, Maybank, Smart Axiata, and more.
The MBCC is one of the oldest and most active business chambers in Cambodia with engagements that extend beyond facilitating business connections. The chamber holds regular dialogues with government agencies, trade delegations, and the private sector, and also facilitates state visits from Malaysian leaders, government officials and other dignitaries.
Looking toward the future, the MBCC has stated it is committed to supporting the Cambodian government and its policies – particularly in advancing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) responsibilities – and wishes to continue embracing opportunities for sustainable growth and giving back to Cambodian society.