MADANI Digital Trade to Allow SMEs Benefit from Technologies
The MADANI Digital Trade (MDT) that was newly-launched by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) in partnership with software developer Nazsoft Tech Sdn Bhd), is an integrated virtual software to strengthen Malaysian exports’ access to global markets – which aligns with the government’s strategy to leverage digital tools for greater market access and intelligence.
According to MATRADE chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, the platform is also in line with the corporation’s target of increasing the digital economy’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) from 19.1% in 2019 to 22.6% by 2025.
Specifically, MDT features business matching functions, an e-marketplace, market intelligence on grants, training, market access and trade-related business solutions with the support of the Royal Malaysia Customs Department.
MATRADE also noted that the strategic partnership leverages on automation, artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to better support trade facilitation including access customs declaration for import, export, e-commerce as well as regulatory compliance.
The agency said the key features of the MDT platform include a virtual engagement platform that connect companies with MATRADE Premium Buyers and International Sourcing Programmes (INSP), facilitating business-to-business matching and identifying potential buyer opportunities in diverse markets.
It said an e-marketplace and market aggregator enable micro, small and medium-sized enterprises to showcase and sell their products and services, bridging the gap between Malaysian brands and the global marketplace while allowing them to rapidly adapt to changing consumer preferences and market demands.
The Member Portal and Digital Trade Hub is a centralised portal that provides exporters with comprehensive information, grants and training, simplifies trade procedures and reduces costs for cross-border trade.
Additionally, the platform also acts as a one-stop business solutions centre that offers access to innovate shared services and solutions on environmental, social and governance (ESG), fourth industrial revolution (IR4.0), trade financing, digital marketing, virtual assistants and more, driving business growth and accelerating market diversification strategies.
This will enable SMEs to benefit from the various technological opportunities, fulfilling the two New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 missions by addressing the SMEs’ pain points.
“This initiative also supports Malaysia’s commitment to the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA), positioning the country as a regional leader in digital trade.
“The MDT will enable our SMEs to expand market reach, enhance trade efficiency and accelerate digital adoption, ensuring the country remains competitive in the global digital economy,” said Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
He also mentioned that local companies could intensify their export ventures in the international markets using state-of-the-art digital platforms for virtual exhibition booths, business meetings and business matchings, facilitated for both buyers and sellers.
Furthermore, businesses would have access to comprehensive training programmes and advisory services, webinars and grant application systems to equip themselves with the necessary tools to navigate the platform effectively.
“From MITI’s perspective, SMEs that fully embrace digital can easily tap into the consumer demand across ASEAN, where the potential is huge, thanks to ASEAN’s sizeable 680-million strong population and because intra-ASEAN trade currently stands at only 23-24%.
“Digitally enabled Malaysian and ASEAN SMEs can easily serve markets as far as Latin America or even Africa. If more Malaysian SMEs could participate in the global value chain through the MDT, they would create more jobs, which in turn would directly support Malaysia’s development,” he noted.
For Malaysian companies and SMEs Tengku Zafrul said the MDT initiative offers a clear advantage, namely a one-stop digital solutioning platform to help expand their market reach, streamline export processes access financial support and leverage real-time business intelligence.
