I wish to convey my congratulations to the Malaysian-Thai Chamber of Commerce (MTCC) for publishing its ‘Business Directory 2005 edition. As the new Ambassador to Thailand, I am delighted to be given the opportunity to pen a few words in the Directory. At the outset, I would like to thank the Board for inviting me to be the Patron of MTCC. It is indeed an honour to be accorded such a privilege and I personally see it as very warm welcome to me from the Malaysian and Thai business community.

Within a short period since its formation in 2002. MTCC has been active organising activities to bring together Malaysian companies, especially those based in Bangkok, to network with one another, as well as to join MTCC. This has contributed to the increase in the membership of almost 80 companies today. MTCC also has been a focal point for Malaysian businessmen keen to do business, and to understand the business culture in Thailand. My congratulations to MTCC on these achievements. I am also happy to note Malaysia’s emerging role as an important investor in Thailand by the presence of an increasing number of Malaysian companies, including MNCS.

I believe it is now opportune for MTCC to go beyond its existing networking and business facilitation role and include the challenge of bigger projects in its work programme, for example, the organisation of business-driven trade exhibitions and investment promotion programmes to showcase not only quality Malaysian-manufactured products and brand-names but also Malaysian services in areas such as education and construction. MTCC should also collaborate not only with Thailand but also with neighbouring countries to diversify its activities to cover non-traditional sectors. I avail MTCC of the services of the Embassy to collaborate and jointly realise these endeavours.

I wish MTCC continued success in all its programmes and activities.

Dato’ Shaarani Ibrahim
H.E. Ambassador of Malaysia to Thailand

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