New York-based Malaysian businessmen to launch TPP business council

The council's roadmap for the future was laid out by its organisers at a meeting held in the Flushing district here on Friday following a preliminary meeting on its formation two months ago.

Plans are afoot to invite International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed and Second International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan to grace the occasion.

Despite delay in the TPP implementation due the upcoming US presidential election in November, the organisers are optimistic of the TPP's realisation, Malaysian trade commissioner in New York Muhd Sharulmiza Zakaria said.

Muhd Sharulmiza, who attended the council's meeting, said the council’s role could complement Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority's mission in spurring trade and investment and business growth between the U.S. and Malaysia.

"The council is also looking for avenues outside the TPP framework as they have contacts with the thriving Chinese community (in the US) originating from Taiwan, Hong Kong and the mainland China,” he said.

The setting up of the council was pushed by New York-based Malaysian businessman and community leader Kim Bong, a leading figure in the Malaysian Association of America.

Kim said in conjunction with the launch of the council, a business seminar on trade and investment would be held at a hotel here, drawing the participation of 100 business people and representatives of corporations who have dealings or interested in dealing with Malaysia.

"We can help the financially strong Chinese community here who are keen to do business in Malaysia," he said, adding that some Chinese businessmen were also interested in the ‘Malaysia My Second Home’ programme.