KOTA KINABALU: Investments and business opportunities are not built solely on transactions but on strong relationships, says the Malaysia–China Chamber of Commerce (MCCC) Sabah.
Its president Datuk Dexter Lau said that while the chamber aims to attract more investors, particularly from China to Sabah and Malaysia, building trust and understanding must come first.
“Before seeking investments or assistance, it is crucial to strengthen relationships between both parties.
“We must understand their culture, their concerns and the nuances that shape how they do business,” he said at the MCCC Annual Gala here on Saturday (April 25).
Lau said the gala served as a platform to foster ties, strengthen networks and explore potential collaborations.
“This year marks a turning point for MCCC Sabah. Tonight, we are not here to talk business — that will come later.
“Instead, we are here to build relationships. And that begins with understanding culture and traditions,” he said.
He noted that China’s diversity, with its many provinces and regions, made cultural understanding even more important in forging meaningful partnerships.
“By understanding these differences, we can find common ground and establish a shared mission for more meaningful conversations and collaborations,” he added.
Lau said facilitating such connections is part of MCCC Sabah’s role in ensuring a more holistic and sustainable partnership between Malaysia and China.
He added that the chamber also plans to promote Sabah more actively on the global stage to attract visitors.
“The more visitors we bring in, the more businesses will benefit, and ultimately everyone gains,” he said.
