On 25 April 2024, H.E. Ms. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia was invited to the “ASEAN-BAC 100 Commemorative Dinner”, hosted by ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC) Malaysia at JW Marriott Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, having YB Senator Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Malaysia, as the guest of honour. Mr. Oudet Souvannavong, Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LNCCI), as ASEAN-BAC President, was also present.

 

YB Senator Zafrul expressed his appreciation for all attendees’ support to the event, which was an important milestone marking the 100th Anniversary of ASEAN-BAC. He reiterated an important role of the private sector in contributing to the acceleration of economic prosperity and integration process across Southeast Asia, in particular SMEs which account for almost 100 per cent of overall enterprises. He also mentioned few priorities under Malaysian Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 such as digital transformation, food security, climate change, etc. ASEAN Member States will work closely together to advance benefits for ASEAN citizens and for ASEAN to become a renowned investment destination.

 

Ambassador Lada met with members of ASEAN-BAC Thailand, namely; Mr. Kobsak Duangdee, Secretary General of the Thai Bankers’ Association and President of ASEAN-BAC Thailand, and Dr. Visit Limlurcha, Vice Chairman, Thai Chamber of Commerce, and was well received by Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chairman of ASEAN-BAC Malaysia and his able team. The Ambassador also discussed with Laos ASEAN-BAC President, who is keen in promoting cooperation in 6 priority areas in 2024 including digital transformation, sustainable development, health resilience, food security, trade and investment facilitation as well as connectivity and supply chain.

 

The ASEAN-BAC 100 Commemorative Dinner in a friendly atmosphere among all 10 ASEAN-BAC was a great success and has helped enhance greater partnership between the public and private sectors, further contributing to economic cooperation and activities in ASEAN.