Medan – The City of Medan welcomed the Emerging Business Award Malaysia-Indonesia 2025 with high optimism, as local leaders expressed hopes of attracting greater foreign investment, particularly from Malaysia and India. The event, held at Hotel Le Polonia, gathered key regional stakeholders from government, business, and cultural organizations.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Medan Mayor Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas emphasized the significance of the event in strengthening cross-border business partnerships. “This is an honor and a great inspiration for creating beautiful collaborations in business. We hope to see more entrepreneurs from Malaysia and India investing in Medan,” he stated on Saturday, May 24, 2025.
Organized by Parisada Hindu Dharma Indonesia (PHDI) Medan in collaboration with the Small Medium Malaysia Indian Entrepreneurs Chamber (SMIBA), the event was attended by prominent figures including SMIBA President Mdm. Malathy Pragasam, Indian Consul General in Medan Ravi Sanker Goel, Sabha Walaka North Sumatra Chairman S. Siwaji Raja, PHDI North Sumatra Chairman Surya, and PHDI Medan Chairman Suben Thiren.
Medan’s position as a multi-ethnic metropolis with rich cultural and culinary heritage was highlighted as a key advantage in fostering cooperation with Malaysia and India. “We share many similarities in food and culture. These potentials can be enhanced further through meaningful partnerships,” added Mayor Waas.
The mayor also underlined the city’s readiness to serve as an investment gateway for ASEAN markets, citing favorable regulatory conditions and commitment to investor protection. “We are open and welcoming. I guarantee both security and streamlined regulations for investors in Medan,” he said confidently.
A particular focus was placed on promoting MSMEs (UMKM) and enhancing bilateral trade. Mayor Waas encouraged businesses in Medan to expand into Malaysia and India, while also welcoming the presence of Malaysian and Indian products in the local market.
PHDI Medan Chairman Suben Thiren expressed gratitude for the municipal government’s support and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to Medan’s inclusive development. “We fully support the city’s vision of ‘Medan for Everyone and Everyone for Medan’,” he said.
SMIBA President Malathy Pragasam emphasized the event’s goal of strengthening trade channels. “This award aims to become a bridge for trade between Malaysia and Indonesia, especially in key sectors like food and textiles,” she noted.
The event culminated in the presentation of business awards to entrepreneurs from both Indonesia and Malaysia, in recognition of their role in driving regional cooperation and economic growth.
