Pahang aims to improve position as exporter

KUANTAN: The Pahang state government wants to improve its position as an exporter from sixth to fifth among all states.

State Felda, cooperatives and entrepreneurs committee chairman Razali Kassim (pic) said this was a realistic target given Pahang’s economic performance and its cooperation with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and other relevant agencies.

ALSO READ: Pahang committed to producing more halal food products, says MB

“Matrade is serious about helping Pahang develop entrepreneurs involved in micro, small and medium enterprises in the state government’s effort to become one of the leading exporting states, especially in the food sector, with the opening of its office here last year.

“I believe with comprehensive guidance and training from Matrade, we can improve our position.

“Last year, Pahang’s export value stood at RM32mil and it should be increased to achieve the target with the participation of more entrepreneurs from the state,” he said when opening Pahang Export Day 2023 here on Tuesday (Oct 3) on behalf of Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.

Also present at the event, sponsored by Exim Bank Malaysia and Fusionex Group, were Matrade deputy executive officer (exporter development) Abu Bakar Yusof and Pahang Economic Planning Division secretary Tengku Datuk Nor Asmaliza Ku Lah.

Currently, 3,124 entrepreneurs across the state have registered with Matrade which is providing them with opportunities to take part in guidance and development programmes.

ALSO READ: Export opportunities for SMEs through Mihas

Razali hoped more entrepreneurs would register with Matrade and allow the agency to identify potential products for export, while enlightening them on product specifications necessary to meet standards set by importing countries.

Meanwhile, Abu Bakar said Matrade aimed create a larger exporting community in the country by equipping entrepreneurs with a wide range of export-related knowledge.

“Our main challenge is to meet the demands of importing countries. We can probably start with a small number of products, supported by the relevant ecosystem players, to expand their production overseas.

“The most important thing is to prepare them for the international market. Currently, we have over 200 export destinations,” he said.

He added that training and promotions needed to be carried out continuously so as to support initiatives related to developing the export sector. – BK