KUSKOP Targets RM100 Mln In Potential Investments Via Riyadh International Exhibition

PUTRAJAYA, Nov 7 (Bernama) -- The Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry (KUSKOP) has targeted RM100 million in potential investments from Malaysia's participation in the BIBAN24 International Exhibition in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick said the target reflects KUSKOP's commitment to strengthen strategic cooperation between Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, especially in the franchise and small and medium enterprises (SME) sectors.

"The BIBAN24 exhibition at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center (RFECC) is a global focus on entrepreneurship and the Malaysia Pavilion is expected to attract industry players’ attention.

"The business matching programmes and negotiation sessions are expected to offer Malaysian companies new opportunities to expand into the Middle East markets," he said in a statement today.

Ewon, who is leading a delegation to the five-day BIBAN24 event which concludes on Saturday, also held a series of high-profile discussions which also included a meeting with Kudu Company for Food and Catering, one of the kingdom’s largest food franchise brands.

He said discussions will bring about opportunities for deeper business cooperation in the food and service sector, which would help Malaysian brands to enter that market.

Ewon also held bilateral meetings with Saudi Arabia's Deputy Trade Minister Dr Eman Habbas Al-Mutairi to strengthen trade and investment relations.

Among the discussion topics were the steps needed to bring about synergy in entrepreneurship and industrial development.

On Tuesday, Ewon launched the Malaysia Pavilion, which showcased Malaysian entrepreneurs' capabilities and innovation.

He also chaired a roundtable meeting with the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, which brought together both countries’ entrepreneurs and investors.

According to Ewon, the session is expected to spur new business collaborations.

Ewon also had discussions with Tamimi Markets representatives, one of the kingdom's largest retail chains which is expected to open doors for Malaysian companies to expand their product range and services there.

-- BERNAMA