Network NLinBusiness expands with business hub in Kuala Lumpur

02-04-2019

Network NLinBusiness expands with business hub in Kuala Lumpur

On 28 March, in the presence of the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Stef Blok, the Malaysian Dutch Business Council (MDBC) received the NLinBusiness quality mark. With this accreditation, the MDBC is now officially a member of the new NLinBusiness network of business hubs. The MDBC is an important stepping stone for Dutch entrepreneurs who are looking for a good network to get off to a flying start on the Malaysian market.

Growing importance of the Malaysian market
According to Marco Winter, Executive Director of the MDBC, “The Netherlands is quite an important economic partner for Malaysia, both in investment and trade. However, not all Dutch businesses seem to be fully aware of this. With the growing importance of the ASEAN region for Dutch businesses and policymakers, this accreditation truly serves as a fantastic stamp of approval for our organisation, our network and the services we provide. Moreover, it really helps us to promote Malaysia in the Netherlands.”

Ms Karin Mössenlechner, the Dutch Ambassador in Kuala Lumpur, adds that the Netherlands and Malaysia have much in common: “Both countries have an open economy and depend on international trade. Much like the Netherlands serves as a hub to Europe, Malaysia can be considered the hub to the ASEAN market. Over 200 Dutch businesses are active in Malaysia and enjoy the favourable business climate. The Embassy and the MDBC cooperate intensively to further strengthen the ecosystem for Dutch businesses in Malaysia and are always ready to advise entrepreneurs in this dynamic market.”

Hans de Boer, chairman of the Confederation of Dutch Business: NLinBusiness collaborates with local partners and the Dutch government in 40 promising markets to create a network of business hubs. I am very grateful to MDBC’s Marco Winter and all other involved parties for their support to Dutch businesses. With the long-standing experience of the MDBC and the know-how of NLinBusiness, we will be even better at supporting Dutch entrepreneurs in establishing themselves in this important growth market.

Edo Offerhaus, General Manager NLinBusiness: “The MDBC in Kuala Lumpur is an important business hub in our Cities of Opportunity. We are glad that the MDBC has become a member of our growing network. With their knowledge, services and network they provide excellent opportunities to Dutch entrepreneurs.

MDBC is a great source of expertise
Entrepreneurs are keen on working with the MDBC. According to Tim Klappe, Managing Director Asia Pacific of MTS Systems, who recently set up an office in Malaysia, “MDBC is a great source of expertise and immediately offered to share its network with us, so that we were off to a flying start in setting up our operations in Malaysia. Especially by sharing its Malaysian contacts and by linking us to professional HR service providers, the MDBC helped us a great deal.”
With over 270 members and offices in Penang and Johor, the MDBC is one of the most active business councils in Malaysia. Marco Winter: “We organise many business, educational and networking events. Furthermore, together with the Embassy we represent our members with the Malaysian authorities. One of our unique services is our internship program for Dutch students looking to gain experience in Malaysia. Through this program, we place over a hundred students at our member companies every year. In this way, we prepare the future exporters to the Malaysian market.”

Would you like to find out more about the MDBC? Please visit www.mdbc.com.my

About NLinBusiness
NLinBusiness was initiated by the Confederation of Dutch Business (VNO-NCW & MKB-Nederland) in close partnership with the Dutch Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Economic Affairs and Climate Policy, and three leading Dutch employers’ organisations (FME, evofenedex and Metaalunie). NLinBusiness was set up in September 2017.
NLinBusiness supports Dutch SMEs in identifying the right international market(s) and building the required capabilities to be successful in those markets. NLinBusiness also facilitates market visits and secures a soft landing in selected Cities of Opportunity. NLinBusiness aims to develop a global network of 40 Dutch business hubs which provide relevant advice, tips and an outstanding network to Dutch entrepreneurs.