NEW ZEALAND KEY PARTNER FOR ASEAN AHEAD OF MALAYSIA'S 2025 CHAIRMANSHIP -- NZMBA PRESIDENT
By V.Sankara
KUALA LUMPUR, April 6 (Bernama) -- Amidst Malaysia's forthcoming chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025, New Zealand emerges as a key partner in fostering greater collaboration within the 10-member regional grouping, said the New Zealand Malaysia Business Association (NZMBA).
President of NZMBA based in Auckland, Dave Ananth, underscores the potential for mutually beneficial partnerships between ASEAN and New Zealand across various sectors, including sustainable agriculture development, renewable energy, and technology.
“Malaysia's chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 presents a momentous occasion for regional cooperation and engagement. Through strategic partnerships with external stakeholders like New Zealand and NZMBA, ASEAN can navigate the complex geopolitical landscape and emerge as a dynamic force for positive change in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond,” he told Bernama, highlighting the potential for impactful partnerships between the regions.
He said in recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on sustainable agriculture worldwide, and the combination of New Zealand's advanced agricultural techniques and ASEAN's abundant resources creates a promising opportunity for collaboration.
Dave also emphasised the need for innovative solutions to address food security challenges and promote environmentally sustainable practices.
“Moreover, the transition towards renewable energy sources is paramount in combating climate change and New Zealand's advancements in renewable energy technologies can complement ASEAN's efforts towards a greener future,” Dave added.
Dave said additionally, the realm of technology holds immense potential for collaboration where New Zealand's burgeoning tech sector, known for its innovation and creativity, can offer valuable insights and expertise to ASEAN countries seeking to harness the power of digital transformation.
Commenting further on Malaysia’s chairmanship of ASEAN, Dave said one notable aspect of Malaysia's chairmanship is its engagement with external partners, including NZMBA which plays a crucial role in facilitating trade and investment between the two countries.
"With Malaysia at the helm of ASEAN, there are opportunities for deeper collaboration between ASEAN and New Zealand across various sectors, including trade, education, and tourism,” he added.
He also said Malaysia needs to look at food sustainability and learn from New Zealand.
“I would like Malaysia to walk the talk and take the lead in food production,” he said, adding that the Malaysia-New Zealand business community brings a wealth of experience and insights to the table.
Dave said as the chairperson of the NZMBA, he can leverage his team’s expertise to strengthen ties between ASEAN and New Zealand, tapping into new markets and investment opportunities.
In addition, he stated that his team is currently aiding in the marketing efforts for FieldDays, New Zealand's largest agricultural expo, scheduled for June 2024.
-- BERNAMA
