Pahang aims to improve position as exporter

KUANTAN - The Pahang state government wants to improve its position as an exporter, moving from the sixth to the fifth position among all states in Malaysia.

State Felda, Cooperatives and Entrepreneurs Committee chairman Razali Kassim said it is a realistic target given its current performance in addition to its cooperation with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and other relevant agencies.

"Matrade is serious about helping Pahang in developing 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 export value stood at RM32 million and it should be increased to achieve the target with the participation of more Pahang entrepreneurs,” he said when opening the Pahang Export Day 2023 here, today, on behalf of Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail.

Also present at the event, which was 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 under Matrade which is providing them with opportunities to undergo various guidance and development programmes.

Razali hoped that more entrepreneurs would register with Matrade and allow the agency to identify potential products that can be exported and shed light on product specifications to meet the standards set by importing countries.

Meanwhile, Abu Bakar said Matrade wants to 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 adding that to support the initiative programmes related to development, training and promotions should be provided continuously. - BERNAMA