KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysia–Cambodia Business Association (MCBA) has appointed Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce Sabah President cum Kim Teck Cheong Consolidated Berhad Executive Director Datuk Dexter Lau as Chairman of its newly established East Malaysia Chapter, marking a significant step in expanding the association’s network to better connect businesses across the entire country.
The appointment was announced by MCBA President Dato’ Sri Dr Ricky Yaw during the Malaysia–Cambodia Business Association Lunar New Year Celebration – Year of the Horse Dinner, which brought together members of the business community and distinguished guests.
Among the guests present were Honorary President of the Malaysia-China Chamber of Commerce Sabah Datuk Lau Kok Sing; Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE S. Jai Shankar; Commercial Attaché at the Royal Embassy of Cambodia to Malaysia, Ministry of Commerce Vith Pannhha; MCBA Honorary Advisor Tan Sri Dato’ Tee Tiam Lee; MCBA Legal Advisors Dato’ Dr Lye Weng Von and Dato’ Dr Manjit Singh; Chairman of NCO Holding Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Ng Chen Onn; Honorary President of the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Soh Thian Lai; and President of One Caring Heart Malaysia Lady Puan Sri Dr Susan Cheah, among others.
In his announcement, Dato’ Sri Ricky Yaw emphasised that the establishment of the East Malaysia Chapter reflects MCBA’s commitment to strengthening its presence nationwide and building a more inclusive business network.
Datuk Dexter Lau, in accepting the appointment, expressed his appreciation to Dato’ Sri Ricky Yaw for his efforts in bringing East Malaysia into the association’s broader network.
He noted that the inclusion of Sabah and Sarawak will help complete a truly nationwide business platform, enabling stronger connections among businesses throughout Malaysia while further enhancing bilateral cooperation with Cambodia.
“The expansion will not only strengthen Malaysia’s business network but also improve engagement at the government level while encouraging greater investment flows between Malaysia and Cambodia.”
Datuk Dexter further pointed out that East Malaysia—comprising Sabah and Sarawak—holds a strategic position in Borneo and offers strong potential in sectors such as agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, renewable resources, halal industries, logistics, and regional trade.
“With the right platforms and partnerships, East Malaysia can play a stronger role in advancing Malaysia–Cambodia economic cooperation,” he said.
As Chairman of the MCBA East Malaysia Chapter, Datuk Dexter revealed that he will soon form a new council for the chapter, bringing together members of the business community to support the association’s initiatives and further strengthen trade and investment links between Malaysia and Cambodia.
The establishment of the East Malaysia Chapter is expected to further enhance collaboration between businesses from both countries while expanding opportunities for investment and economic cooperation.
