I am delighted to receive Dr Manothong Vongsay, Vice Minister of Industry and Commerce of Lao People’s Democratic Republic, in Kuala Lumpur.
Interestingly, we are both alumni of the Australian National University.
As Malaysia approaches its ASEAN Chairmanship, Malaysia looks to enhance cooperation with our ASEAN partners to produce tangible and beneficial socio-economic outcomes for the people.
It is my conviction that the more developed ASEAN states must do more for the late comers to grow together at a faster pace.
Collaboration between SIRIM and Lao PDR
I accompanied Dr Vongsay on his visit to SIRIM.
During the visit, discussions were held and an agreement was reached between SIRIM and the Lao PDR delegation to explore collaboration opportunities in the following areas:
1. Development of Metrology Infrastructure and capacity building.
2. Support in developing and harmonising industrial standards to enhance trade and product quality.
3. Focus on Human Capital Development and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).
4. Enhancing quality and productivity through technology intervention and transfer.
5. Provision of Testing and Calibration Services.
6. Promotion of Entrepreneur and Technopreneur Development.
I would like to thank Dato’ Indera Ir. Dr. Ahmad Sabirin Arshad, President and Group Chief Executive Officer of SIRIM, for hosting the visit and driving the initiative for knowledge sharing with Lao PDR, one of Malaysia’s ASEAN partners.
Malaysia-Laos Economic Cooperation Scholarship
I am deeply grateful that Monash University Malaysia, INTI International University, Taylor’s University, Sunway University, UCSI, and HELP University, are each contributing two full scholarships to establish with MITI the Malaysia-Laos Economic Cooperation Scholarship. This Scholarship will be offered in accordance with the admission requirements for the courses, and is available for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in the field of economics. AirAsia will sponsor the return flight tickets for the scholarship recipients.
With a new generation of Laos’ best students studying in Malaysia, we hope to build lasting friendships, partnerships and economic cooperation between Malaysia and Lao PDR.
Forging closer working relationships and friendship with our partners in the region will allow ASEAN to grow stronger together.