WEC and IWS 𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 visited the Malaysia Investment Development Authority (MIDA). Picture credit to WEC Linkedin.
By Tengku Noor Shamsiah Tengku Abdullah
KUALA LUMPUR, May 8 – Germany is turning to Malaysia as a cornerstone of its ASEAN trade ambitions, following the arrival of a high-level business delegation in Kuala Lumpur on May 6, 2025.
The visit marks a pivotal move in strengthening bilateral economic ties and positioning both countries for resilient, future-focused cooperation amid global uncertainty.
The delegation is led by Peter Nussbaum, Chairman of the the Internationaler Wirtschaftssenat e.V. (IWS) who is also Chairman of the International Senate World Economic Council (WEC) and Bernhard Schutte, Chairman of Tapio Management Advisory and WEC Ambassador to Malaysia.
Peter Nussbaum leads the WEC and IWS delegation to South-East Asia. Picture credit: WEC Linkedin.
It follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent high-level engagement in Berlin and builds on longstanding commercial and diplomatic links between the two nations.
“This is not just a visit, it is a statement of confidence,” said Schutte. “Germany recognises Malaysia not only as a gateway to ASEAN, but as a trustworthy, future-proof partner in turbulent times.”
Bernhard Schutte, Chairman of Tapio Management Advisory and WEC Ambassador to Malaysia.
Since their arrival, the German delegation has been scheduled to meet with key Malaysian leaders, among others, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Minister of Entrepreneurship and Cooperatives YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, and German Ambassador Dr Peter Blomeyer.
Germany’s confidence in Malaysia is well-founded. Industry giants such as Infineon Technologies, Siemens, Osram, B. Braun, and Bauer have established deep roots in Malaysia.
Some now operate larger subsidiaries here than in their home country, benefiting from Malaysia’s skilled talent pool, world-class infrastructure, and strategic neutrality in a complex geopolitical landscape.
This latest mission, jointly organised by the WEC and IWS, aims to unlock fresh partnerships in advanced sectors including semiconductors, green energy, artificial intelligence, engineering, and medical technology. These areas align with Malaysia’s Madani Economy aspirations and Germany’s long-term innovation agenda.
“This landmark mission aims to solidify a new era of German-Malaysian collaboration, foster mutual prosperity, and ensure both regions remain competitive and agile in the evolving global economy,” said the organisers in a joint statement.
With the global trade environment undergoing rapid transformation, Germany’s outreach to Malaysia sends a clear signal: in ASEAN, Malaysia stands as a dependable, high-potential partner for shared growth and long-term strategic alignment.
- TNS NEWS