NEARLY 4,000 Malaysian companies have expanded their international business operations through the MADANI Digital Trade (MDT) platform, according to the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE).
The development reflects growing national momentum towards digital trade modernisation and enhanced global market access.
The MDT platform, spearheaded by MATRADE, was notably utilised at the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2025 to enable seamless cross-border business matching for 600 Malaysian halal exporters — including micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) — with 300 international buyers.
In a statement issued today, MATRADE described MDT as a transformative digital tool designed to “modernise and digitise cross-border trade processes, enabling faster, more cost-effective and efficient movement of goods and services.”
“MDT also provides access to core trade facilitation services such as customs declarations for import, export and e-commerce transactions, thereby enhancing compliance and streamlining trade operations,” it added.
The agency stressed that the platform prioritises MSME empowerment, equipping smaller enterprises with digital tools and resources to improve their cross-border readiness.
“With intelligent business matching and trade facilitation services, MSMEs can participate more actively in international markets and better integrate into global supply chains,” MATRADE said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim highlighted the strategic role of MDT during his officiation of the Global Halal Summit (GHaS) on 19 September, stating that the platform would “serve as a key catalyst for trade digitalisation, SME empowerment, and deeper integration into global supply networks.”
Anwar noted that this aligns with the government’s wider aspiration to grow businesses through innovation and digital connectivity.
Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz echoed the sentiment at the MDT launch on 13 March, calling the platform “a catalyst for trade facilitation,” aimed at simplifying export processes, reducing costs and broadening SME inclusion in international trade.
As the lead agency, MATRADE will continue to work closely with key government bodies, including the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), and trade ecosystem partners across logistics, insurance and finance, to drive digital transformation in trade facilitation.
“JKDM plays a vital role in ensuring smooth trade processes by integrating digital solutions into customs operations, reducing inefficiencies and strengthening the overall trade facilitation framework,” MATRADE stated.
Such efforts are seen as instrumental in reinforcing Malaysia’s international trade position while promoting economic growth through a transparent, efficient and technology-driven trade environment.
Built on big data analytics, cloud computing and artificial intelligence, MDT is set to become a cornerstone of smart trade infrastructure and a key enabler for Malaysia’s halal industry.
MATRADE also confirmed that its virtual International Sourcing Programme (INSP), held alongside MIHAS 2025 and running through November, will continue leveraging MDT to support ongoing business engagement.
“As Malaysia navigates an evolving global trade landscape, MATRADE remains committed to supporting businesses in their digital transformation,” the agency said.
“MDT marks a significant milestone in equipping Malaysian companies to thrive in the digital economy and strengthening Malaysia’s global trade position,” it concluded.- September 29, 2025
