KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has launched the National Export Awards (NEA), a new initiative to honour leading Malaysian exporters driving the nation’s growth on the global stage.
Organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) with Star Media Group as its strategic partner and event organiser, the soft launch of NEA 2025 was held at Matrade yesterday.
Held under the theme “Honouring Excellence, Powering Global Trade”, NEA 2025 highlights Malaysia’s export leadership not merely as commercial success but as a strategic driver of long-term growth, sustainable development and national influence.
“NEA celebrates businesses that personify our core values of quality, trust and sustainability, elevating the country’s standing worldwide while inspiring new generations to reach higher.
“Malaysia’s export achievements are more than just numbers; they reflect the talent, vision and bold decisions that shape our reputation globally,” said Matrade.
Speaking at the launch, Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican said the NEA is more than just an award, describing it as a platform to elevate Malaysia’s position as a leading exporting nation.
“This award serves as a form of appreciation and recognition for our exporters who have contributed greatly to our economy for many decades,” he said.
All smiles: Reezal Merican (fourth from right) with (from left) Matrade deputy chief executive officer Mansor Shah Wahid, Matrade senior board member Datuk Hazimah Zainuddin, Miti Bilateral Economic & Trade Relations division director (Europe and Middle East) Zaireen Omar, Mohd Mustafa, Star Media Group (SMG)group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, SMG chief operating officer Lydia Wang and Matrade deputy chief executive officer Abu Bakar Yusof having a group photo taken during the soft launch of NEA 2025 at Matrade. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
Reezal Merican noted that Malaysia is currently the 24th largest trading nation and 25th largest exporting nation in the world.
“Exports are not merely an economic pillar but the lifeblood of national development.
“In 2024 alone, Malaysia recorded exports totalling RM1.51 trillion, primarily driven by electrical and electronics products, petroleum and palm oil.
“In the first eight months of this year, exports rose 3.9% to RM1.03 trillion,” he said.
Reezal Merican also urged Malaysian companies to pursue global certifications and adopt digitalisation to compete internationally through the NEA platform.
“Adopt innovation, embrace e-commerce, e-trade and cross-border digital platforms, but most importantly, uphold sustainability,” he said.
Reezal Merican also expressed his appreciation to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Investment, Trade, and Industry (Miti) Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, noting that they have been at the forefront this year, tirelessly engaging international leaders in bilateral meetings and negotiations amid uncertain geopolitical and economic conditions.
Matrade chief executive officer Datuk Seri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz said winners would receive incentives, with details to be announced later.
Malaysian Consortium of Mid-Tier Companies honorary president Callum Chen, who attended the launch, said the NEA would be a valuable learning platform for exporters.
“This is where you learn from the past, share experiences and look at best practices. We need to ask why one company progresses while another doesn’t.
“We have to ask the tough questions and be honest with ourselves,” he said.
The NEA will honour 21 top exporters across seven categories, covering large corporations, mid-tier companies, multinationals and SMEs.
Additionally, nine strategic partners – three each from the public and private sectors, as well as industry chambers – will also be recognised.
To qualify, companies must demonstrate more than strong export numbers.
They will be evaluated on innovation, sustainability, social impact and commitment to build Malaysia’s export ecosystem.
The national award will be independently audited by BDO Malaysia to ensure transparency and fairness.
The awards ceremony is scheduled for Dec 5 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre from 7pm to 11pm, and will be graced by Anwar.
