The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), in collaboration with Nazsoft Tech Sdn Bhd, has introduced the MADANI Digital Trade (MDT) platform, aiming to strengthen Malaysian exporters’ access to international markets. This initiative aligns with the government’s strategy to leverage digital tools for broader market access and intelligence.
MATRADE Chairman, Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, highlighted that the MDT platform is a strategic approach with the potential to empower Malaysian exporters of various sizes to connect directly with international markets, accelerate market diversification, and achieve greater success. He stated, “This aligns with our target to increase the digital economy’s contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 19.1% in 2019 to 22.6% by 2025.”
The MDT platform offers businesses functions such as business matching, digital marketplaces, market intelligence, grants, training, market access, and trade-related business solutions.
Launched by the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, the platform is designed to revolutionise how Malaysian exporters and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) engage with international markets, providing them with the necessary tools and insights to compete on a global scale.
The Royal Malaysian Customs Department supports MDT by offering users the opportunity to access its services through the platform. This strategic partnership leverages automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics to better support trade facilitation, including access to customs declarations for imports, exports, e-commerce, and regulatory compliance.
Key features of the MDT platform include a Virtual Interaction Platform that connects businesses with MATRADE’s Premium Buyers and the International Sourcing Programme (INSP), assisting in business matching and identifying potential buyer opportunities in diverse markets.
The digital marketplace and market aggregator enable micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase and sell their products and services, bridging the gap between Malaysian brands and international markets while allowing them to adapt quickly to changing consumer preferences and market demands.
The Digital Trade Hub and Member Portal serve as centralised portals providing exporters with comprehensive information, grants, and training, facilitating trade procedures and reducing cross-border trade costs. This offers Malaysian businesses the agility needed to pivot towards growth opportunities in the green economy.
Additionally, the platform acts as a one-stop business solutions centre, offering access to shared services and innovative solutions on sustainability efforts, Industry 4.0, trade financing, digital marketing, virtual assistants, and more, driving business growth and accelerating market diversification strategies.
MDT also introduces an intelligent virtual assistant, MIVA, which greets and assists all registered members in navigating the platform, providing real-time assistance 24/7 to buyers.
The launch of the MDT platform is expected to have significant implications for Malaysian businesses, particularly SMEs, by enhancing their competitiveness in the global market, reducing trade barriers, and providing them with the tools necessary to thrive in the digital economy.
