Manila, 29 July 2026 – The Embassy of Malaysia in the Republic of the Philippines today hosted an Investment Briefing for the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) in conjunction with DEX Connex 2026, bringing together senior representatives from the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Malaysian technology companies, government agencies and industry stakeholders to explore strategic investment opportunities within the Philippines’ rapidly growing digital economy.
The programme highlighted the investment potential of the Luzon Economic Corridor (LEC) and BCDA’s flagship economic zones, particularly Clark and New Clark City, while showcasing opportunities for Malaysian technology companies to establish a long-term presence in the Philippines through innovation, digital transformation and strategic partnerships. The event also featured presentations by BCDA and BDB Law on the Philippine investment landscape, available fiscal incentives and business establishment opportunities, followed by a networking session and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signing ceremony between Safe Truck and IoT Philippines.
The event was graced by His Excellency Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino Anthony, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Republic of the Philippines, and Attorney Gisela Z. Kalalo, Executive Vice President of BCDA, underscoring the shared commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation in digital innovation and investment.
In her remarks, Attorney Kalalo welcomed the Malaysian delegation and reaffirmed BCDA’s commitment to fostering partnerships with innovative Malaysian companies seeking to establish a presence in the Philippines.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Abdul Malik emphasised that the digital economy has become one of the defining pillars of ASEAN’s future growth and competitiveness, presenting unprecedented opportunities for Malaysia and the Philippines to strengthen collaboration in emerging technologies, innovation and digital investment.
“Malaysia does not view the Philippines simply as another export market. We see the Philippines as a strategic partner in building ASEAN’s digital future. By combining Malaysia’s technological capabilities with the Philippines’ dynamic market, highly skilled workforce and ambitious digital transformation agenda, we can create partnerships that generate lasting economic value, strengthen regional competitiveness and contribute towards a more resilient and digitally connected ASEAN.”
The Ambassador noted that the Philippines has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s most promising digital economies, driven by a young and digitally connected population, a globally competitive English-speaking workforce and strong government support for digitalisation. He also highlighted that initiatives such as the Luzon Economic Corridor represent a new generation of economic development that integrates world-class logistics, smart infrastructure, innovation districts and digital connectivity, creating attractive platforms for technology-driven investments.
Malaysia and the Philippines continue to enjoy strong and expanding economic relations. In 2025, total bilateral trade reached approximately USD8.32 billion, reaffirming the Philippines as one of Malaysia’s important trading partners in ASEAN. As both countries pursue digital transformation and innovation-led growth, technology and digital services are expected to become increasingly important drivers of bilateral economic cooperation.
The Malaysian delegation spearheaded by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) consist of leading Malaysian technology companies, namely IDmeta Sdn. Bhd., WAHDAH Technologies Sdn. Bhd., Snappymob Sdn. Bhd., Theta Service Partner Sdn. Bhd., Eco Community Sdn. Bhd. and Safe Truck. These companies represent a diverse range of expertise, including digital identity, software engineering, cybersecurity, enterprise digitalisation, smart mobility, sustainability technologies and digital platforms, reflecting Malaysia’s growing capabilities as one of ASEAN’s leading digital economies.
The Embassy of Malaysia remains committed to supporting the internationalisation of Malaysian companies and strengthening economic diplomacy with the Philippines. Through close collaboration with MDEC, Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and Philippine partners, the Embassy will continue to facilitate business engagements that contribute to deeper bilateral economic ties, increased digital investment and enhanced cooperation in emerging technology sectors.
The engagement marks another important milestone in strengthening Malaysia–Philippines economic relations and reinforces both countries’ shared aspiration to build a more innovative, digitally connected and resilient ASEAN. By fostering closer collaboration between governments, industry and technology innovators, the initiative is expected to create new opportunities for investment, knowledge exchange and sustainable economic growth in both countries.