DTI Strengthens PH-Malaysia SME Ties at ASEAN Summit

On the sidelines of the 46th ASEAN Summit, Trade Secretary Cristina A. Roque reaffirmed the Philippines’ commitment to supporting small and medium enterprises during a key meeting with the SME Association of Malaysia on May 26.

The dialogue focused on strategic initiatives to enhance trade and investment linkages, with SMEs comprising 97 percent of businesses in Malaysia and 99.5 percent in the Philippines.

Key areas of collaboration included enterprise matching, innovation partnerships and joint projects.

Secretary Roque emphasized the Philippines’ goal to make its micro, small and medium enterprises globally competitive through digitalization, innovation and institutional support.

She outlined reforms and programs aimed at expanding market access, improving financing and integrating Filipino businesses into regional and global value chains.

“The collaboration between Malaysian and Philippine MSMEs presents a significant opportunity for both countries to tap into each other’s vibrant markets,” Roque said.

She added that the Philippines is eager to turn this synergy into results by accelerating digital adoption and broadening market reach for entrepreneurs.

The SME Association of Malaysia expressed strong interest in strengthening ties with Philippine businesses.

They welcomed the idea of trade missions, market access dialogues and networking events to foster connections between entrepreneurs from both countries.

Association President Dr. Chin Cee Seong highlighted the complementary strengths of the Philippines and Malaysia, especially in retail, food and cross-border e-commerce.

Both parties agreed to hold joint trade missions and business events to deepen SME cooperation.

Secretary Roque also commended the DTI Foreign Trade Service Corps for their professionalism and dedication in promoting Philippine trade and linking MSMEs to global opportunities.

Also present were Assistant Secretary May Niña Celynne P. Layug, Commercial Counsellors Norjamin G. Delos Reyes and Jollan Margaret Llaneza, Foreign Trade Officer Jeremiah C. Reyes, SME Association of Malaysia President Dr. Chin Cee Seong, National Vice Presidents Datuk Ada Poon Yin Hoong and Miccele Siow Lee Ching, National Assistant Secretary General Dato’ Danny Mah Che Beng and National Council Member Dato’ Danny Tan Eng Ching.