Kuala Lumpur, May 14, 2025 — In a landmark move to boost South-South cooperation, Malaysia and Kenya have signed a bilateral framework agreement to deepen collaboration in digital trade, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The announcement was made during the Malaysia–Kenya Innovation & Digital Trade Summit 2025, held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre and co-organized by Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) and Kenya’s Ministry of ICT and Digital Economy.
“This partnership is more than trade—it’s about co-creating inclusive digital futures for our people,” said Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for ICT, Eliud Owalo.
Key Pillars of the Partnership:
-
Mutual Recognition of Digital Standards to simplify cross-border e-commerce
-
Startup Exchange Programs between Malaysian and Kenyan tech hubs
-
Joint Ventures in Fintech and Logistics to improve trade facilitation
-
Talent Mobility Agreements for skilled tech professionals
-
Shared Data Infrastructure to support AI and machine learning innovations
Trade and Investment Opportunities
The summit also highlighted investment openings for Malaysian firms in Kenya’s expanding tech sector—including smart agriculture, mobile banking, e-learning, and green logistics—while inviting Kenyan startups to explore Malaysia as a launchpad into ASEAN.
“Kenya is East Africa’s innovation powerhouse, and Malaysia is Southeast Asia’s digital gateway,” said Ts. Mahadhir Aziz, CEO of MDEC. “Together, we unlock new markets.”
Support from the Private Sector
Leading tech firms from both countries—including Shopbee (Malaysia) and Twiga Foods (Kenya)—participated in B2B matchmaking sessions aimed at creating scalable digital solutions for emerging markets.
Multiple Malaysian companies also pledged investment in East Africa’s digital infrastructure, while Kenya invited Malaysian logistics and e-commerce platforms to help modernize its supply chain and last-mile delivery networks.
Looking Ahead
The summit concluded with a joint communiqué committing to:
-
A Malaysia-Kenya Digital Trade Council to oversee the implementation
-
Biannual reviews and shared innovation metrics
-
Joint research grants for startups solving regional development challenges
This new partnership is expected to increase bilateral trade volume by 30% over the next 3 years, with a strong emphasis on youth entrepreneurship, sustainable technologies, and inclusive digital policies.
📍 Stay tuned to Business Point Magazine for exclusive insights into Africa–Asia business cooperation, startup ecosystems, and global digital economy trends.
