MATRADE Advances Mid-tier Companies’ Global Journey Through the Final 12MP MTCDP Cohort

KUALA LUMPUR, September 24, 2025 -- Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) intensifies its efforts in propelling Mid-Tier Companies (MTCs) onto the global stage with the launch of the final cohort of its flagship Mid-Tier Companies Development Programme (MTCDP) under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan (12MP).

This milestone marks a pivotal step in accelerating the internationalisation of high-potential Malaysian firms, underscoring MATRADE’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s trade ecosystem and positioning MTCs as global champions. Since its inception in 2014, MTCDP has empowered 370 MTCs across diverse sectors with tailored strategies and interventions, enhancing their export competitiveness and accelerating their global growth. 

Dato’ Sri Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz, Chief Executive Officer of MATRADE, commended the enduring strength of Malaysian MTCs in overcoming global headwinds and sustaining their competitiveness on the international stage. “MTCDP has always been more than just a programme, it is a strategic platform to elevate Malaysian champions onto the world stage. We are immensely proud of the resilience and innovation demonstrated by the past participants. This final wave under 12MP is not an end, but a springboard into the future. MATRADE is ready to carry this momentum into the Thirteenth Malaysia Plan (13MP) with sharper strategies and deeper industry engagement.” 

“Over the years, MTCDP alumni have diversified into new international markets, becoming strong advocates of Malaysian capabilities. Their achievements reinforce our confidence that with the right strategies and global partnerships, MTCs can shape and drive Malaysia’s trade performance in the years ahead,” he added. 

Dato’ Sri Mohd Mustafa further emphasised that MATRADE will continue forging strategic partnerships with Government agencies, industry players and international stakeholders to sharpen export strategies, deepen market access and broaden the global presence of Malaysian companies. With the transition into 13MP, MTCDP will be further enhanced to equip more MTCs to compete at the highest level, contributing to Malaysia’s long-term growth and advancing its global trade ambitions. 

The kick-off event, held at The Majestic Kuala Lumpur, welcomed 24 new onboarding MTCs into Wave 12 of the MTCDP, of which 15 are service-based companies spanning high-impact industries such as energy and oil & gas, healthcare and biotechnology, digital and financial technology, agribusiness, as well as food and beverages. To inspire the participants, the programme also featured a lightning talk themed “From National Champions to Global Titans – Building a Lasting Legacy”, bringing together distinguished MTCDP alumni as guest panellists. Their insights and experiences offered invaluable perspectives on scaling Malaysian businesses globally and building a lasting legacy in international markets.

Launched in 2014 as a high impact key initiative in the Malaysia Development Plan, the MTCDP aims to accelerate the export growth of MTCs, positioning them as global leaders. Building on its success, MATRADE introduced the Mid-Tier Ramp Up Programme in 2016 to further propel exports and strengthen the competitiveness in the international arena.  

The MTCDP targets export-oriented MTCs with annual revenues ranging from RM50 million to RM500 million for manufacturing companies and RM20 million to RM500 million for service providers. Interested companies are encouraged to contact MATRADE through email [email protected] for further information.

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