Malaysian Exporters Urged To Adopt Proactive, Adaptive Approach Amid West Asia Crisis
KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 (Bernama) -- Malaysian exporters need to adopt a proactive and adaptive approach to navigate the evolving landscape due to the West Asian crisis, according to speakers at a webinar organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
MATRADE said that among the recommended strategies are diversifying markets beyond traditional destinations into ASEAN, Central Asia, South Asia, and Africa; adjusting shipment terms to mitigate risk exposure; and strengthening buyer verification to ensure reliability amid uncertain conditions.
The panel of speakers at yesterday’s webinar on “Middle East Crisis – Market Update” also recommended exploring service-based exports, including oil and gas expertise and technical services; and leveraging on digitalisation and artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency and cost control, the national trade promotion agency said in a statement issued today.
The webinar, moderated by FSG Advisory Sdn Bhd chief executive officer (CEO) Dr Anthony Dass, aimed to provide a concise yet insightful overview of the current situation, supported by perspectives from MATRADE representatives on the ground in the United Arab Emirates, Egypt and Kazakhstan.
Industry representatives from mid-tier companies also shared their perspectives and experiences, including LH Plus Sdn Bhd CEO Callum Chen, MMC Oil and Gas Engineering Sdn Bhd CEO Ts Sharifah Zaida Nurlisha Syed Ibrahim, and Mine Logistics Sdn Bhd CEO Dereck Ng.
“While the duration of the conflict remains uncertain, buyers and importers in the affected regions are becoming more price-sensitive, with some renegotiating contracts or postponing orders. Exporters dealing in lower-margin, high-volume goods are especially vulnerable under these conditions.
“Thus, exporters need to adapt, with new routes, partnerships, and market dynamics emerging in the process,” MATRADE said in the statement.
Encouragingly, logistics providers noted that in spite of rising costs, the situation so far remains manageable, it added.
MATRADE said Malaysia is well-positioned to strengthen its role as a reliable and strategic supplier in global markets despite the challenges.
“Opportunities continue to exist across key corridors where demand remains present, albeit uneven, while companies that stay close to market developments, maintain engagement with buyers and position themselves along credible value segments can still secure footholds,” it said.
Meanwhile, MATRADE CEO Abu Bakar Yusof said the agency is fully engaged with its overseas network together with the industries to leverage on their insights and expertise in ensuring the business community is well informed on the situation and ways to mitigate the challenges faced during this crisis.
The webinar was also organised as a prelude to MATRADE’s upcoming physical workshop titled “Executive Dialogue Series - Thriving in a Changing Market Landscape – Insights for Business Leaders”.
Malaysian companies interested to participate in the event on April 16, 2026, can contact MATRADE by emailing training@matrade.gov.my or calling 03-6207 7077.
-- BERNAMA
