KUALA LUMPUR: About 4,000 Malaysian firms have gone digital to break into global markets under the government’s Madani Digital Trade (MDT) platform.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said MDT is central to Malaysia’s competitiveness.
“MDT will serve as an essential enabler for trade digitalisation, SME empowerment and enhanced integration into global supply chains.
“Digitalisation helps businesses improve efficiency, reach new markets and unlock opportunities across the economy,” he said during the Global Halal Summit.
According to Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), since its launch in March, MDT has seen strong adoption.
It was used during MIHAS 2025 to facilitate cross-border business matching for 600 halal exporters, including micro, small and medium enterprises, with 300 international buyers.
It explained that the platform provides access to customs declarations for imports, exports and e-commerce, helping businesses move goods and services faster and more cost-effectively while improving compliance.
“Matrade, as lead agency, is working with the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (RMCD) and ecosystem partners in logistics, insurance and finance. RMCD’s role includes integrating digital solutions into customs operations, reducing inefficiencies and strengthening the trade facilitation framework.
“The initiative supports economic growth by promoting a more transparent, efficient and technology-driven trade environment,” it said.
It added that a key focus of MDT is to equip MSMEs with digital resources to speed up their readiness for cross-border trade.
With intelligent business matching and facilitation services, it said that MSMEs are expected to participate more actively in international markets and integrate into global supply chains.
“Built on big data analytics, cloud computing and artificial intelligence, MDT is also being positioned as a support platform for Malaysia’s halal industry. Its virtual International Sourcing Programme, held in conjunction with MIHAS, will run until November 2025.
“MDT represents an important milestone to ensure Malaysian businesses are equipped for the digital economy and to reinforce the country’s position in international trade.”
