WEC Delegation Trip to Southeast Asia

Singapore and Malaysia are indispensable hubs for companies aiming to expand their presence in the dynamic and fast-growing Asia region. Both countries offer unique strengths and opportunities that make them preferred locations for international business activities.

Singapore, as a global center for trade, technology, and finance, stands out due to its strategic location, political stability, and world-class business environment. Companies benefit from access to leading industry experts, innovative solutions, and cutting-edge digital technologies. With its free trade agreements, business-friendly tax policies, and innovation-driven ecosystem, the city-state has established itself as a gateway to the emerging markets of Southeast Asia. Many international companies already use Singapore as a strategic hub to accelerate their expansion in Asia and seize new growth opportunities.

Malaysia complements these strengths with its central location in the region and a pro-business policy framework that offers excellent conditions for companies to realize their business strategies. In light of global geopolitical shifts and evolving trade patterns, Malaysia is increasingly seen as a regional hub. European companies leverage the country to support long-term growth strategies such as market expansion, knowledge transfer, and succession planning. Malaysia provides an ideal platform for building strategic partnerships and unlocks additional business potential through investment incentives and sustainable growth initiatives.

The World Economic Council (WEC) recognizes that closer cooperation between Europe and Southeast Asia is essential to address global economic challenges and create new opportunities. In this context, the WEC, in collaboration with the International Economic Senate (IWS), is organizing the WEC Delegation 2025 to Singapore and Malaysia. The goal of this delegation trip is to deepen relations between the DACH countries (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland) and Southeast Asia and to provide companies with a platform to forge strategic partnerships, develop joint projects, and foster sustainable market growth.

DRAFT AGENDA

Monday | May 5
– Reception at the German Embassy in Singapore
– Visit to the German Centre for Industry and Trade
– Visit to Olam Group (a leading company in the food and agribusiness sector)
– Business networking dinner

Tuesday | May 6
– Travel to Kuala Lumpur, flight from Singapore around 1:30 PM
– Welcome briefing
– Roundtable / Dialogue with ministries / government agencies
– Business networking dinner

Wednesday | May 7
– Courtesy visit to the Prime Minister of Malaysia
– On-site visit to German companies operating in Malaysia
– Networking lunch

Thursday | May 8
– Site visits in key economic zones
– Business-to-business matchmaking sessions
– Networking dinner

Friday | May 9
– Roundtable / Dialogue with ministries / government agencies
– Cultural experience and tour
– Closing briefing
– Business networking & farewell dinner