Gatwick Diamond business representatives are preparing to visit Malaysia from 14 to 17 October as plans progress for a long-term trade and investment agreement with the Malaysian state of Selangor.
The visit follows a Malaysian trade delegation to Crawley in July, when Invest Gatwick Diamond and Invest Selangor agreed a framework for closer collaboration on international trade, inward investment and business development. The return visit will coincide with the Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, where representatives will take part in the Selangor Investment and Industrial Park Expo (SPARK). The organisations are working towards signing a longer-term agreement during the visit.
The programme will bring together representatives from investment agencies, government, property development, technology, professional services and international business. Meetings are arranged with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and the Malaysian Trade and Investment Centre. Further discussions are taking place with British and European trade organisations, business representatives and potential investment partners. The delegation will also explore opportunities for businesses from both regions to establish commercial relationships and enter new markets.
Brett North, Executive Director of Invest Gatwick Diamond, said: “We made a commitment in July to turn the relationship between our two regions into something that delivers real opportunities for businesses. Now we’re going to Malaysia to make that happen.
“It’s about opening doors in both directions. We want businesses here to discover opportunities in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, while helping Malaysian companies understand what our region has to offer. The important thing is that these conversations lead to introductions, partnerships and, ultimately, business.”
The visit builds on the framework established during the Selangor delegation’s visit to Crawley Innovation Centre on 17 July, led by Selangor’s Chief Minister, Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari. That meeting identified opportunities for collaboration in aerospace, advanced manufacturing, digital technology, logistics, innovation, skills development and sustainable aviation. The October programme includes the Selangor Investment Forum, bringing together senior Malaysian government representatives, investment officials and international business leaders.
The delegation is also developing connections for businesses and organisations with interests in Malaysia, including discussions involving the University of Sussex and companies working in tourism, technology, professional services and international trade. These activities form part of a wider programme to connect businesses in the Gatwick region with opportunities across Southeast Asia, while introducing potential Malaysian investors and commercial partners to the UK’s Gatwick Airport Economic Zone.
Brett North added: “One of the things that struck us during the Malaysian visit to Crawley was just how much common ground there is between our two regions.
“We both have international connectivity, businesses with ambitions to grow and people who want to work together. But relationships only become valuable when we do something with them. This visit is about taking those next steps and making sure more businesses get the chance to benefit.”
Invest Gatwick Diamond and Gatwick Diamond Business are continuing discussions with UK and Malaysian companies, investment organisations and trade representatives about participation in the programme and future business opportunities. Details of the proposed long-term agreement will be announced once arrangements have been finalised.