Asia CEO Community Brings Business and Tourism Together at Regional Business Gathering in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 September 2026 — A regional business gathering took on a broader purpose when Asia CEO Community celebrated its 11th anniversary with a Gala Dinner hosted by the Malaysia Chapter, bringing together approximately 300 guests, including 16 Chapter Presidents, business leaders and distinguished guests from across Asia.

Held in Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, the Gala Dinner was designed not only to strengthen business connections, but also to introduce international guests to Malaysia’s tourism attractions, cultural diversity and hospitality.

The event brought together two complementary dimensions of Malaysia’s regional appeal: its growing opportunities for trade and investment, highlighted through the participation of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), and its cultural and tourism offerings, supported through the involvement of Tourism Malaysia.

The Malaysia Chapter’s intention was to encourage business leaders to view Malaysia not only as a place to conduct business, but also as a destination to explore, invest in and return to with their families and networks.

MITI Highlights Malaysia’s Economic Momentum

The Gala Dinner’s Guest of Honour, YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, shared an overview of Malaysia’s recent trade and investment performance in his keynote address. 

He highlighted that Malaysia’s total trade surpassed the historic RM3 trillion mark in 2025, reaching RM3.061 trillion. He also noted that Malaysia recorded RM426.7 billion in approved investments in 2025, representing an 11% year-on-year increase and the country’s third consecutive year of record investment performance.

According to the figures shared during his address, Malaysia’s total trade had reached RM2.51 trillion by August 2026, while approved investments for the first half of 2026 stood at RM218.46 billion.

YB Sim also highlighted Malaysia’s improved standing in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2026, where the country secured 15th position globally.

His message underscored Malaysia’s continued efforts to strengthen its position as a competitive destination for international trade, investment and high-value economic activity.

The Malaysia Chapter expressed its sincere appreciation to YB Tuan Sim Tze Tzin for gracing the occasion and sharing these insights with the international business community.

Malaysia’s Culture Takes Centre Stage

Beyond the economic discussion, the evening offered international guests an opportunity to experience Malaysian culture.

One of the key highlights was the traditional lion dance eye-dotting ceremony, symbolising the awakening of the lions and the ushering in of good fortune, prosperity and positive energy.

The ceremony brought together distinguished guests and community leaders in a meaningful celebration of Malaysian heritage.

Later in the evening, the atmosphere became more spontaneous when the Chapter Presidents and distinguished guests were invited onto the stage for a musical celebration.

A specially selected music video 《万水千山总是情+ Ikan Kekek》featuring Malaysia’s attractions, cultural heritage, unity and hospitality played on the screen. As the music filled the room, leaders from different countries began singing, dancing and waving Malaysian flags. 

Gary Lam, Global President of Asia CEO Community, and Dato’ Vimmy Yap, Malaysia Chapter President, led by example, joining in the celebration and encouraging fellow leaders to put aside their formal roles and enjoy the moment.

The scene was filled with laughter, dancing and shared enthusiasm. For a moment, professional titles and national borders gave way to friendship and the simple joy of being together.

Building Connections Beyond the Boardroom

“Hosting this year’s Gala Dinner in Malaysia was a deliberate decision,” said Dato’ Vimmy Yap, Malaysia Chapter President of Asia CEO Community.

“We wanted to bring business and tourism together; to introduce our international business leaders to Malaysia’s investment opportunities, while also allowing them to experience our culture, attractions and hospitality. Our hope is that they will return not only for business, but also for personal travel, family holidays and future investment opportunities.”

The Gala Dinner also featured awards, tokens of appreciation for sponsors and partners, and a charity painting initiative under the community’s NOVA Circle.

The evening reflected Asia CEO Community’s belief that meaningful business relationships are strengthened through shared experiences, cultural exchange and genuine human connection.

 As leaders from across Asia celebrated together in Kuala Lumpur, the message was clear: One Community. Many Countries. Together in Malaysia.