Introduction -...

Introduction

Foreword

Contact sheet Malaysia

Introduction to Malaysia • Climate • History

Malaysia Culture • Religion • Customs and Habits • Multi-Ethnic Society

Food & Drinks • Belgian food in Kuala Lumpur

Leisure Activities • Shopping • Sightseeing

Security, Health and Money • Security • Health • Money

Getting Around • Air • Bus • Car • Taxi Practical Information

Language

Studying in Malaysia

Table of Contents

Embassy of Belgium in Kuala Lumpur

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Business in Malaysia

Economic history Overview of the Economy

Regional Development Belgium-Malaysia trade

Belgian Investments in Malaysia Investment Incentives and Barriers • Tax Incentives • Regional and Industrial Incentives • Barriers: Bumiputera Equity Requirement

Malaysia and ASEAN

EU-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement List of Belgian Companies in Malaysia

Table of Contents

Embassy of Belgium in Kuala Lumpur

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35

37

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Business in Malaysia

Economic history Overview of the Economy

Regional Development Belgium-Malaysia trade

Belgian Investments in Malaysia Investment Incentives and Barriers • Tax Incentives • Regional and Industrial Incentives • Barriers: Bumiputera Equity Requirement

Malaysia and ASEAN

EU-Malaysia Free Trade Agreement List of Belgian Companies in Malaysia

A SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR BELGIAN BUSINESSMEN TRAVELLING TO MALAYSIA

Malaysia in many aspects represents the key to South-East Asia. It harbours an open and growing newly industrialized market economy. Because of it geographic location, abundance in resources and export-driven economy, it is often seen as a platform to access the rest of Asia. It is no stranger to investors and holds one of the best economic records in Asia in terms of GDP growth.

It is our hope that this ‘Survival Kit’ will be of great help to you, providing key tips and tricks in order to make the most out of your stay in this bustling South East Asian country.

Answers to questions such as: Which Belgian companies are active in this area? What sectors of business are of major importance to the country? How do I conduct business with Malaysians? etc. can be found in the following pages.

Embassy of Belgium in Kuala Lumpur Page 3

Foreword by H.E. Mr Daniel Dargent, Ambassador of BelgiumDear Compatriots, My assignment as Ambassador of Belgium in Malaysia begins at a crucial moment: from 23rd till 25th November 2014 a High Level Belgian Economic Mission presided over by HRH Princess Astrid will be visiting Malaysia. This mission will reinforce Belgium’s image and will take our bilateral relations to the next level.The third edition of this survival kit is certainly a very useful instrument for the almost 300 participants who take part in the Mission but it is also a day to day guide for the many more Belgian citizens travelling yearly to Malaysia for personal or business reasons. They will find simple answers to simple but important questions.We believe this country offers great opportunities in terms of trade, investment and academic co-operation.We have some 350 Belgian expatriates living permanently in Malaysia and 50 Belgian companies are established here. We also have numerous Malaysian alumni of Belgian Universities. This is a multicultural and booming country. We trust you will appreciate quality of life here. Let me thank the whole staff of the Embassy and more specificallyMr. Guillaume Derom, Mr. Brandon Liew and Brahim Lamrini who made this booklet become a reality.Should you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. The Trade Commissioner and myself, and indeed the whole staff of the Embassy are at your service. Please also get in touch with the Malaysia-Belgium-Luxembourg Business Council, they are a great and dynamic club.

I wish you a most enjoyable and fruitful stay. Malaysia boleh!

Daniel Dargent, Ambassador of Belgium

November 2014


Embassy of BelgiumKuala Lumpur | Malaysia

Embassy of Belgium in Kuala LumpurSuite 10-02, 10th FloorMenara Tan & TanLetter Box N°10-02207, Jalan Tun Razak50400 KUALA LUMPURTel: +60 3 21 62 0025Email: [email protected]

www.diplomatie.be/kualalumpur

Monday to Thursday: 9.00 am to 5.00pmFriday : 9.00 am to 2:30pm

Consular services : Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 1.00pm

C/O DPO International Sdn. Bhd.B2-G Lorong Selangor,Pusat Komersial Gaya,Pusat Bandar Melawati,53100 Kuala Lumpur. MALAYSIATel: +60 3 41 08 1282 | Fax: +60 3 41 08 1262Email: [email protected] | www.mblbc.org

Contact person: Mr. Daniel Pans

Trade Office of Flanders-Brussels-Wallonia

Suite 10-03, 10th FloorMenara Tan & TanLetter Box N°10-03207, Jalan Tun Razak50400 KUALA LUMPURTel: +60 3 21 68 8895 / 96 / 97Email: [email protected]

Monday to Friday: 9.00am to 5.00pm

Eric de LameTrade Commissioner for the Flanders, Brussels andWallonia Regions

Malaysian Belgium-Luxembourg Business Council (MBLBC)


INTRODUCTION TO MALAYSIA

FAST FACT SHEET

•Area| 329,847 sq. km•HighestPoint| Mt. Kinabalu 4100 m •Capital|Kuala Lumpur; administrative centre: Putrajaya•Population| 30,018,242 (2014)•EthnicGroups| Malay 50.4%; Chinese 23.7%; Indigenous 11%; Indian 7.1%; others 7.8%•Languages| Bahasa Malaysia (official), English, Chinese, Tamil•Religion|Islam (official) 61.3%%; Buddhist 19.8%; Christian 9.2%; Hindu 6.3%•LifeExpectancy| 74.2 years•FertilityRate| 2.64 children / woman•Literacy| 92.5%•Unemployment| 3%•GDP| $11.099 per capita (PPP)•GeographicallyConsistsofTwoParts| Peninsular Malaysia & East Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan)

Malaysia is a constitutional monarchy headed by a supreme ruler (commonly referred to as ‘the Agong’) and a bicameral Parliament consisting of a nonelected Upper House and an elected Lower House. 9 out of 13 Malaysian states have hereditary rulers (commonly referred to as Sultans or Rajas). The Kings are elected by and from the hereditary rulers of nine of the states for five-year terms: selection is based on the principle of rotation among rulers of states. The King holds a ceremonial function as Head of State of Malaysia. The country is divided into 13 states and 3 federal territories: Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya (which operates as the administrative centre of the capital).

CLIMATE

Malaysia has both a tropical and monsoonal climate. This means that it’s hot and humid permanently throughout the year. In the lowlands, where the capital is located, temperatures vary between 21°C in the early morning and 32°C in the late afternoon. The highlands are much cooler with temperatures as low as 10°C. Malaysia has two seasons, however the observed differences are much clearer on the eastern coast of the Malaysian peninsula than on the western coast. The dry season runs from May to September and the rainy season is from October until April. In Kuala Lumpur, the rainiest months are March, April, October and November.


HISTORY

From the 9th to 13th century AD the early Buddhist Malay kingdom of Srivijaya (now known as Palembang, Sumatra) dominated most of the Malay Peninsula. In the 14th century the Hindu kingdom of Majapahit (now Java) gained control of the region. The conversion of Malays to Islam is attributed to the rule of a Muslim prince in the rising state of Malacca between the 14th and 15th century. By then Malacca was a major trading hub, home to Arab, Malay, Chinese and Indian merchants.

In 1511 the Portuguese admiral Alfonso de Albaquerque took over the affluent city of Malacca and marked the start of the colonial era for the Malaysian peninsula. The Portuguese struggled to keep their power in the Sultanate for a whole century until they were obliged to surrender to the Dutch East India Company, who acquired the monopoly on the spice trade of Malacca in around 1641.

The British came in the early 19th century, looking for strategic trading posts somewhere on the maritime road between China and India. The Dutch signed the Treaty of London (1824) with the British, appointing respectively the main archipelago of Indonesia to the Dutch and the Malaysian peninsula to the British. The British East India Company installed a commercial policy of free trade, which contributed greatly to the development of the new crown colony, later to be renamed into the Straits Settlements after the addition of Singapore, Penang and various other islands in 1826. Under British rule the Malaysian peninsula developed into a thriving economy with a large-scale rubber and tin production. It became the most important producer of rubber and tin by the 20th century.

In 1941 Japanese troops landed on the east coast of Malaysia, starting 3 years of military occupation that left its mark on the country. The United Kingdom reoccupied Malaysia in 1948 and the country formed the Federation of Malaya out of its peninsular territories.

On the 31st of August 1957 Malaysia gained independence. The first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, declared independence on Merdeka Square (Independence Square) in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s colonial district.


In 1963 the Federation of Malaysia was established after the addition of Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore, putting si into Malaya, thus becoming Malaysia. Singapore, however, left in 1965 and became an independent republic.

Malaysia joined the Association of South East-Asian Nations (ASEAN) in 1967. 1969 saw the eruption of severe racial riots in the capital. The core of the conflict was the inequitable division of the country’s wealth among ethnic groups. With the launch of the New Economic Policy by the government, measures were taken so that 30% of the country’s wealth had to be in the hands of the indigenous Malays (Bumiputera). The global demand of rubber, tin, tea, palm oil and later the development of light industries and the discovery of oil and earth gas reserves in the South-Chinese Sea stimulated the nation’s economy starting from the 1970’s.

Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad held office as Prime Minister for 22 years from 1981 until 2003, during which Malaysia experienced economic growth and a shift from an agricultural-based economy to a more manufacturing and industry- based economy.

The incumbent Prime Minister since 2009 is Najib Abdul Razak, from the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), the largest political party in the coalition of Barisan Nasional (BN).


Malaysian CultureRELIGION

Malaysia is a multi-ethnic society and its religious landscape is equally diverse. Islam is the religion of the Federation and is the dominant religion in Malaysia. All Malays are by definition Muslim, belonging to the Sunni branch of Islam. Among both Chinese and Indians there are also some Muslims. Buddhism is the predominant religion of Malaysian Chinese. Most Malaysian Indians are Hindus, although a number, known as ‘Jamek’, are Muslim. Christians can also be found among the Chinese and Indian Malaysians and form a significant portion of the population of East Malaysia.

CUSTOMSANDHABITSMalaysia’smulticulturalismbringsalongseveralcodesofbehaviour:


MULTI-ETHNICSOCIETY

Malaysia is blessed with ethnic diversity, making it a truly cosmopolitan country. The many cultures represented in Malaysia help sustain international relationships and allow for smooth communication with the ASEAN region.

After the urban unrest of 1969, when racial tensions peaked, the country managed to forge a more tolerant, multicultural society. This led to the government’s New Economic Policy, launched in 1971, which has increased the Malay people’s involvement in the national economy through the use of affirmative action. Intermarriage is uncommon. The national education system admits students regardless of racial and language background, however there are other types of schools such as Islamic schools or Chinese schools that are split according to language and ethnic origin.

• Take off your shoes before entering someone’s home. Also take them off when entering a mosque or a Hindu or Buddhist temple.• Always great people with your right hand, the left hand is considered unclean. Malaysians usually shake hands followed by a gesture of placing your right hand on your heart as a sign of respect.• When meeting people with titles before their name such as ‘Dato’, ‘Tun’, ‘Tan Sri’, ‘Datuk’ or ‘Datin’, it is customary to address them by their title.• Exchange of business cards is of major importance. Always keep business cards with you.• Be wary when inviting Malay people to events or establishments that may serve pork or alcohol. When hosting an event, try to separate the Halal and the non-Halal sections of catering.

FOOD & DRINKS

Malaysia’s multi-racial and multi-cultural population provides the country with a variety of flavours. Many different cuisines are to be discovered. Chinese and Indians tend to eat out more often and this is reflected in the choice of restaurants around the cities. However, it is a general rule that Muslim Malays do not eat pork and Hindu Indians do not eat beef.

Local delicacies are found throughout the cities and all suburbs. Dining environments range from street side ‘hawker stalls’ to fine dining establishments, with an abundance of local and international restaurants in the cities. Hawker stalls are simple roadside food stalls that usually have a few plastic tables and chairs and offer a variety of Malaysian dishes. Try to avoid prepared dishes that may have been sitting for a long time.

FamousDestinationsForFoodInKualaLumpurInclude:

•JalanBukitBintang-restaurantsandArabianfood•JalanAlor-hawkerstallsandstreetfood•JalanChangkat-bigrangeofbarsandinternationalrestaurants•PetalingStreet(Chinatown)–streetfoodandfoodcourts•JalanTelawi(BangsarShoppingCentre)–internationalrestaurants

In general, alcohol in Malaysia is expensive. Not all restaurants will serve alcohol as it is forbidden to Muslims. Most hotels, bars, supermarkets and Chinese liquor stores will usually have a range of international and local spirits and beers.

BelgianFoodInKualaLumpur

Belgian beer is readily available in a number of alcohol serving establishments in Kuala Lumpur, the most popular being Stella Artois and Hoegaarden.

At present there is one restaurant that is specialized in Belgian cuisine:


• Brussels Beer Café, which has four outlets around the city:

o Lot G-12 Menara Hap Seng, Jalan P. Ramlee Tel: +6 03 2034 1800o L-20-G, Block L, Jaya One No.72A, Jalan Universiti Tel: +6 03 7954 2000o No.4 & 6 Jalan 1/67B, Jalan Mengkudu Ampang Tel: +6 03 4251 2888o Lot K-OG 13 & 14, SoHo KL No.2, Jalan Solaris Tel: +6 03 6205 2999

Mini Food Glossary

Briyani Basmati rice oven-baked with spices

Char Siew Sweet and spicy barbeque pork fillet

Chendol Dessert of coconut milk, green jelly and shaved ice

Chilli Padi Extremely hot chilli

Dhal Dish of pureed lentils

Dim Sum / Yum Cha Sweet and savoury dumplings served at breakfast or lunch

Kuih Malaysian dessert pastries

Kway Teow Broad rice noodles

Laksa Noodles in spicy coconut soup with prawns and chicken

Asam Laksa Noodles in prawn paste and tamarind gravy

Nasi Lemak Coconut rice, served with ikan bilis and peanuts

Pisang Goreng Banana fritters

Rendang Spicy coconut curry with beef or chicken

Rojak Salad in peanut sauce dressing

Roti Canai Unleavened bread cooked on a hotplate, eaten with dhal

Sambal Sauce of chilli, onions and prawn paste

Satay Marinated and grilled meat on a skewer

Teh Tarik Tea made with evaporated milk which is ‘pulled’ from one glass to another


LEISURE ACTIVITIES

SHOPPING

Compared to most western countries, costs in Malaysia are relatively low. Malaysia boasts a range of traditional handicrafts and clothing such as Batik, which can be found in the local shops and markets.

There are three major sale seasons (March, August and December) organized by the Ministry of Tourism, with even more periodic weekend and seasonal sales throughout the year. At present, there is a sales and service tax applied to certain prescribed goods and services at 5-10%.

‘Pasar Malam’ or Night markets offer an authentic Asian shopping experience. By evening, the streets of certain districts can be crowded with dozens of stalls selling fresh fruits and vegetables, trinkets, cheap clothes and street food.

Bargaining is accepted and even expected in street stalls and also some specialty shops and independent stores. Merchants will not hesitate to lure western foreigners into paying extra if they do not haggle well. The rule of thumb is to let the merchant quote the price first and start from two-thirds below the merchant’s price.

ShoppinginKualaLumpur

Kuala Lumpur is a major shopping destination offering a staggering range of just about anything, from cheap goods up to luxurious designer brands.

Majorshopping areas include:

•Bintangwalk JalanBukitBintang

Located along Jalan Bukit Bintang, this area hosts several shopping malls including Pavilion, Starhill, Lot 10, KL Plaza and Sungei Wang Plaza. It also has a plethora of spas, reflexology centers, restaurants and clubs. The intersection of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail is the centre of the ‘Golden Triangle’, the premier business, entertainment and shopping district.


•LittleIndiaJalanMasjidIndia

Muslim and Indian clothing are sold along this street as well as Indian spices, jewellery and cosmetics. Indian delicacies are popular and can be found among the first few stalls in the area. There is also a night market on Saturday evenings.

Markets:

•AmcorpMallFleaMarketPetalingJaya(Weekends10amto6pm)

One of very few authentic flea markets around, this indoor market is known for antiques, old records, books, rare magazines and toys. Many E-bay auctioneers actually source their antique products here.

•BangsarNightMarketBetweenJalanMarof&JalanTelawi2(Sunday5pmto11pm)

The local ‘Pasar Malam’ of Bangsar, this open air wet-market is home to fresh produce and street food. Chinese, Indian and Malay delicacies are found along its narrow and often crowded lanes. Bargaining for food is not accepted but discounts may be offered on other goods.

•CentralMarket(PasarSeni)JalanHangKasturi

Established in 1888, this market has become a tourist centre for arts, handicrafts, souvenirs and traditional clothing. It is host to a regular programme of cultural dances and performances. The Malaysian Heritage Society has classified this popular area as a heritage site.

•Chinatown(PetalingStreet)JalanPetaling&JalanTunH.S.Lee

This street was once known as “Chi Cheong Kai” (starch flour street) as tapioca mills were once run here. One of the oldest shopping areas in KL, today it is a bustling market open throughout the year, famous for imitation goods, Chinese delicacies and coffee shops.


SIGHTSEEING

Malaysia offers a phenomenal contrast in its tourist attractions, from tropical rainforests and diving hotspots to modern metropolis skyscrapers and bustling city streets. It is no stranger to tourists and many will find it easy to get around in English, at least in the major towns and cities.

SightseeinginKualaLumpur

Listed below are some of the major sightseeing areas in Kuala Lumpur. While it is by no means a comprehensive list, it gives you an idea of some of the historical and cultural attractions of the city.

•PetronasTwinTowers

The iconic Petronas towers stand at the heart of KLCC’s urban development at a height of 451.9m and were once the tallest buildings in the world before the opening of the Taipei 101 in 2004. Opened in 1998 and designed by Argentinean born architect Cesar Pelli, they are the headquarters of Petronas, the national oil and gas company.

It is adjacent to a world-class concert hall, home to the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO), which incorporates both traditional Malaysian music and classical music in their repertoire. It has also been host to a number of Belgian musicians over the years.

The shopping centre at the base, Suria KLCC, was built by a Belgian, Victor Buyck whose company supplied the steel structures and was also responsible for the KLCC convention centre and Menara Telecom building nearby.


It is possible to visit the Skybridge that links the two towers, about 170m above ground on the 41st floor and the Observation deck, about 360m above ground on the 86th floor. However, tickets are very limited and are on a first come, first served basis. Issuing of tickets starts at 8.30am at the Concourse level and are RM80 per adult and RM30 per child. Visiting hours are from 9am to 9pm and it is closed every Monday and from 1pm to 2:30pm on Fridays. Tel:+60323318080www.petronastwintowers.com.my

•MenaraKL(KLTower)

On the other hand, the Kuala Lumpur tower reaches a height of 421m and is the fifth tallest telecommunication tower in the world. Its round spire, also built by Victor Buyck, is inspired by the Malaysian spinning top and is visible across the skyline, a reasonable distance from the Petronas towers. Though now used for broadcasting purposes, the viewing deck, 276m above ground, is popular with tourists and locals alike and provides one of the highest views of the city. One floor above the viewing deck lies the revolving restaurant, Seri Angkasa, where a 360 degree view of KL is advertised.Tel: +6 03 2020 2121

Tickets to the tower start from RM47 per adult and RM30 per child. Visiting hours are from 9am to 10pm daily.Tel:+60320205444www.menarakl.com.my

•MasjidJamek(Fridaymosque)

One of the oldest mosques in Kuala Lumpur, the Masjid Jamek stands at the confluence of the Sungai Klang and Sungai Gombak rivers, where the founders of the city first arrived. Designed by the same architect that did the Sultan Abdul Samad building, its Moorish architecture resembles that of Mogul mosques in India. Like any other mosque, visitors must be dressed appropriately to enter, but robes and headscarves may be borrowed at the entrance. It is open to visitors from 8:30am to 12:30pm and 2:30pm to 4:00pm every day except for Friday, where it is closed from 11am to 2:30pm.


•MerdekaSquare(DataranMerdeka)

Every year crowds gather here at this square on National Day and New Year’s Eve to celebrate and parade down the street. This historical site is where Malaysia’s independence (Merdeka) from British rule was announced by the first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman on the 31st August 1957.

There is a 100m tall freestanding flagpole at the south end of the square and the square itself is surrounded many buildings of historical interest including the Royal Selangor Club on the west side and the Sultan Abdul Samad building on the other side, a prime example of KL’s colonial architecture. Beside the Sultan Abdul Samad building lies the Kuala Lumpur Railway Station which was once the transport hub of the city. At the northern end are a few memorial arches and St. Mary’s Cathedral, a Gothic styled church over a hundred years old.

•SriMahamariammanTemple

This South India Hindu temple is the oldest and richest Hindu temple in KL and is situated at the edge of Chinatown. The smell of jasmine flowers greets visitors outside the 22m tall gate tower that guards the entrance. This tower, called a gopuram, has five levels and is decorated with sculptures of Hindu gods (up to 228 idols).

As this is a place of worship, visitors must be dressed appropriately to enter and remove their shoes. Seek permission first before taking photos inside the temple. A small donation is expected on your way out. The temple is open daily from 9am to 6pm.

Embassy of Belgium in Kuala Lumpur Page16

•TheanHouBuddhistTemple

Although it is only 20 years old, this large Chinese temple combines both modern and traditional architecture and has elements of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism in its design. It has a beautiful garden, four different levels and a scenic view over the city, making it popular with tourists and locals alike. Traditional Chinese martial arts such as wushu, taichi and qi gong are still practiced here.

The temple is slightly further away from the city centre but is still accessible. It opens daily from 8am to 9pm.


SECURITY, HEALTH AND MONEY

SECURITY

Theft and violence are not particularly common in Malaysia, however you have to remain cautious, especially with your travel documents. You do not have to carry your passport all the time with you. Instead, keep them in a safe in your hotel room or at the reception desk. It is also wise to keep a paper copy of your passport or ID with you.

Muggings do happen and purse-snatchers on motorcycles are known to operate often on tourists in crowed areas such as open markets, public transportation and on special celebrations in the city.

Credit card fraud and scams are prevalent in any country in the world, and Malaysia is no exception. Exercise caution as usual. Use your cards only at established businesses and guard your credit card numbers closely.

Be aware that trafficisontheleft-handside in Malaysia!!


EMERGENCY NUMBERS:

Ambulance | 999

Fire dept | 994

Police | 999

From mobile phone | 112

Belgian Embassy emergencies | +6 01 2267 3112(outside of office hours and weekends)

WHAT DO I NEED TO DO IF I LOSE MY PASSPORT?

1) In case of theft or loss of your passport you need to immediately contact the police station in your area of residence or where the theft or lost of your passport occurred and to draw up a written report.

2) Contact the Belgian Embassy:

Suite 10-02, 10th Floor Menara Tan & Tan Letter Box N°10-02 207, Jalan Tun Razak 50400 KUALA LUMPURTel:+60321620025Email:[email protected] MondaytoThursday:9amto5pmFriday :9amto2.30pm

Consular services: MondaytoFriday:9amto1pm

3) Bring 2 ID photos with you and sufficient Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) to pay for the issuing of your passport.

A normal passport costs €79 (MYR 316) and takes about 7 working days to make.

You can, however, ask for a temporary passport that the Embassy can immediately deliver, which costs €50 (MYR 200). This type of passport will allow you to leave Malaysia, but might not be recognised in all countries. Keep in mind that you need to pay in MYR!

4) Also make sure you contact DOCSTOP. DOCSTOP is a free service, round the clock accessible 24h/24 and 7d/7 and will allow you to block your identification documents. Beware that this service only works for Belgian identification documents! Tel: 00800 2123 2123

Note: if this number doesn’t work, dial Tel: +32 2 518 2123


5) After you received your temporary passport from the Belgian Embassy, you need to go to the Immigration Department of Malaysia in order to have your temporary passport stamped, so that you can prove you entered the country and also allowing you to leave Malaysia. See www.imi.gov.my for a full list of offices

Address:HeadquartersoftheImmigrationDepartment Malaysia MinistryofHomeAffairs Level 1-7 (Podium) N°15 Persiaran Perdana, Precint 2, 62550 Putrajaya Tel: +6 03 888 01 000 Fax: +6 03 888 01 200

Operation Room: Line 1: Tel: +6 03 888 01 555 Line 2: Tel: +6 03 888 01 556 Line 3: Tel: +6 03 888 01 339 Fax: +6 03 888 01 509

Address: ImmigrationDepartment(KualaLumpurInternationalAirport) Main Terminal Building Level 3, KL International Airport, 64000 KLIA Tel: + 6 03 8776 3681 Fax: + 6 03 8787 4191

HEALTH

Malaysia enjoys a good standard of health care and sanitation, particularly in Kuala Lumpur and other major urban areas. Serious diseases such as malaria, hepatitis, and typhoid fever are relatively uncommon and avoidable through vaccination.

Adjustingtotheclimate

The biggest health challenge faced by most newcomers is adjustment to the tropical climate. Recognise that it takes time for your body to adjust to the heat and humidity, as well as to the differences in time zones. Newcomers often experience feelings of lethargy or excessive fatigue and an accompanying loss of appetite.


Tominimisetheimpactoftransition on your body:

• Limit exertion as the heat and humidity can rapidly sap energy• Be careful with long sun exposures, make sure you apply sunscreen• Drink enough fluids (preferably water) to rehydrate your body• Do not overdo spicy foods as they may cause indigestion


Tap water versus bottled water

Tap water is generally safe to drink in hotels or restaurants in Kuala Lumpur and other cities, but many prefer to drink bottled water at home. If you prefer not taking any risks, stick to bottled water. Hot beverages are no problem as the water has been boiled.

Mosquitoes

Use sufficient amounts of mosquito repellent and check if it contains DEET. If your room is not air-conditioned, it is advisable to sleep under a mosquito net.

While risks of malaria are low in Malaysia, there is a rising presence of dengue in South-East Asia. Dengue fever is contracted by a mosquito bite and this may happen during day and night. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache and body ache. There’s no specific treatment, mainly rest and paracetamol. You should however visit a doctor to be diagnosed and monitored.

ListofprivatehospitalsintheareaofKualaLumpur

Tourists and expats usually go to private hospitals in Malaysia as public hospitals are funded by the government and are meant to cater to Malaysian patients. However, in case of life-threatening emergencies, a 24-hour emergency service will be provided at the nearest public hospital.

AmpangPuteriSpecialistHospital1 Jalan Mamanda 9Taman Dato Ahmad Razali68000 AmpangTel:+60342702500www.apsh.kpj.com.my

Assunta Hospital68 JalanTempler46990 Petaling JayaTel:+60377823433www.assunta.com.my

GleneaglesIntanMedicalCentre282 & 286 Jalan Ampang50450 Kuala LumpurTel:+60342571300www.gimc.com.my

PantaiHospitalKualaLumpur8 Jalan Bukit Pantai59100 Kuala LumpurTel:+60322960888Emergencyhotline:+60322960999www.pantai.com.my

ListofprivatehospitalsoutsideofKualaLumpurFederalTerritory

JOHORKPJJohorSpecialistHospital39-B Jalan Abdul Samad80111 Johor BahruTel:+6072253000Emergencyhotline:+6072207505www.kpjjohor.com

KEDAHKedahMedicalCentrePumpong05250 AlorSetarTel:+6047308878Emergencyhotline:+6047373347www.kedahmedical.com.my

KELANTANKotaBharuMedicalCentrePt 179-184, Jalan Sultan Yahya Petra, Lundang15150 Kota BahruTel:+6097433399www.kbmc.com.my

MELAKAMahkota Medical Centre3 Mahkota Melaka, Jalan Merdeka75000 MelakaTel:+6062813333Tel:+6062852999www.mahkotamedical.com


SABAHSabah Medical CentreLorong Bersatu, off Jalan Damai, Luyang88300 Kota KinabaluTel:+6088211333Emergencyhotline:+6088322199www.sabahmedicalcentre.com

SARAWAKNormahMedicalSpecialistCentreLot 937, Section 30 KTLD Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman, Petra Jaya93050 KuchingTel:+6082440055Emergencyhotline:+6082311999www.normah.com.my

SELANGORSimeDarbyMedicalCentreSubangJaya1 Jalan SS 12/1A47500 Subang JayaTel:+60356391212www.healthcare.simedarby.com

TERENGGANUKualaTerengganuSpecialistHospital443 B, Jalan Kamaruddin20400 Kuala TerengganuTel: +6 09 624 5353Emergencyhotline+6096252626www.kts.net.my

PAHANGKuantanSpecialistHospital51 Jalan Alor Akar25250 KuantanTel:+6095678588www.ksh.kpjhealth.com.my


NEGERISEMBILANNegeriSembilanChineseMaternity Hospital Medical Centre Jalan Tun Dr Ismail70200 SerembanTel:+6067622104http://nscmh.com

PENANGGleneaglesMedicalCentre1 Jalan Pangkor10050 PenangTel:+6042276111Emergencyhotline:+6042202108www.gleneagles-penang.com

PenangAdventistHospital465 Jalan Burma10350 PenangTel:+6042227200www.pah.com.my

PERAKHospital Fatimah1 Leboh Chew Peng Loon,Ipoh Garden31400 IpohTel:+6055455777www.fatimah.com.my

IpohSpecialistHospital26 Jalan Raja Di Hilir30350 IpohTel:+6052408777Emergencyhotline:+6052418989www.ish.kpjhealth.com.my

MONEY MATTERS

Credit cards and Maestro

Master Card and Visa are the most widely accepted brands in Malaysia. Banks will accept credit cards for over-the-counter cash advances, or you can make ATM withdrawals. Many banks are also linked to international banking networks such as Cirrus, Plus and Maestro allowing money withdrawals from overseas savings account. Online purchases work normally outside of Europe.

Attention forMaestro users:Belgian banks have blockedMaestro forwithdrawalsandpaymentsoutsideofEurope. You can, however, requestthetemporaryactivationoftheMaestrofunctiononline.To do so, you need to have a PC banking contract and your bank card must be valid for at least another three months.

You can of course also directly contact your bank and ask them personally to unblock Maestro for usage outside of Europe. Submit your request in good time: at least three bank working days before your departure.

Currency,ATMandMoneyExchanges

The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) is made up of 100 sen. Coins in use are 5, 10, 20 and 50 sen. Notes come in RM 1, RM 5, RM 10, RM 20, RM 50 and RM 100. Calculating into Euros will be easy, just divide everything by 4.Conversion:1€=+4.00MYR (April 2014)

ATMs are quite easy to find. Look for them at the entrance of banks, in hotel lobbies, in malls and in large department stores. It is not common to see them on the street or in supermarkets. Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, Cirrus and Plus are available on some of the ATMs but not all.


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GETTING AROUND

AIR

•MalaysiaAirlines|within Malaysia Tel:+601300883000; outside Malaysia Tel:+60378433000|www.malaysiaairlines.com•AirAsia|Tel:+60600858888(call centre) www.airasia.com•Firefly(a subsidiary branch of Malaysia Airlines)|Tel:+60378454543 (call centre) |www.fireflyz.com.my•BerjayaAir| reservation for seats only Tel:+60321196616 www.berjaya-air.com•MalaysiaAirlinesSwings(for flights in Borneo only) | within Malaysia Tel:+601300883000;outside Malaysia Tel:+60378433000 www.maswings.com.my

BUS

Bus travel in Malaysia is economical and generally comfortable and seats can be reserved. The main operator is KonsortiumTransnasionalBerhadTel:1300888582running services under:

•Transnasional|Tel:1300888582|www.transnasional.com.my•Plusliner|Tel:+60340477905|www.plusliner.com.my•Cityliner|Tel:1300888582|www.cityliner.com.my

ForjourneysonthelongerdomesticroutesinpeninsularMalaysiaandtoSingapore:

•Aeroline|Tel:+60362588800(7:30amto7:30pm) www.aeroline.com.my•Supernice|Tel:+6043316359|www.supernice.com.my•Transtar|Tel:+60321411771|www.transtar.com.sg

Destination Fare (RM) Duration

Alor Setar 50 5 hours

Johor Bahru 40 5 hours

Kuantan 20 4 hours

Melaka 20 2 hours

Penang 55 5 hours

Singapore 80 5 ½ hours


InterstatebusfaresfromKualaLumpur:

Urban areas have numerous taxi companies that are easy to recognise and all run on meters. Aside from the usual red taxis, there are also blue ‘executive’ taxis that offer a higher standard of service in exchange for a slightly higher price. Taxis operating legally have license plates with a white background an black numerals, all beginning with a capital H. The easiest way to get one is to ask the reception des of your hotel to call you a taxi. You can also hail one directly on the street. The booking of taxis can also be done via smartphone using the app called “Easy Taxi” or “MyTeksi”, a free taxi booking app. Drivers are certified safe and all will use taxi-meters. The app will also allow you to call the driver directly and track him real-time on a map.For metered taxis, rates are as follows: flagfall (first 1km) is RM 3; 10 sen for each 115m or 45 seconds thereafter; RM 1 for each piece of luggage in the trunk; plus 50% on each of these charges between midnight and 6 am.Drivers are legally required to use their meters if they exist but some will ask for a fixed fee, which will usually cost more Drivers usually try to charge more during traffic jams, heavy rain and after hours. Should you run into any unpleasantness, simply take the number of the cab and the driver’s name. By law, both must be prominently displayed on the dashboard of the car. Phone the authorities Tel: +6 03 8886 6400 to lodge a complaint against a particular driver.

Listoftaxicompanies•AirportLimo(from KL International Airport to KL) |Tel:+601300888989•PublicCab|Tel:+60362592020•SunlightTaxi|Tel:+601300800222•SaujanaCab|Tel:+60321628888

TAXI


RENTINGACAR

Rent-a-carcompaniesinclude:

•Avis|Tel:180088&Tel:+60376282317|www.avis.com.my•Hertz|Tel:+60377181266|www.simedarbycarrental.com

A valid overseas licence is needed to rent a car. An International DrivingPermit is usually not required by local car-hire companies, but it is advisable you bring one. Cars are right-hand drive and you drive on the left side of the road.

Cheapest rates can be found from RM176/day or RM1155/week, including insurance and collision-damage waiver.

TRAIN

Malaysia’s privatised national railway is called Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad Tel: +6 013 0088 5862 (7am to 10 pm) www.ktmb.com.my and has tracks connecting the main cities of peninsular Malaysia from the border of Thailand all the way down to Singapore. There are two main types of services: express and local trains. Express trains are air-conditioned and are divided in 1st, 2nd and 3rd class. These trains have restaurant-wagons and there are sleeping berths for 1st and 2nd class on over-night trains. Reservations are mandatory for journeys on 1st and 2nd class.

PUBLICTRANSPORTINKUALALUMPUR

Kuala Lumpur has a complex railway transportation system, with different companies operating different lines that are built separately. Changing from one line to another may mean walking a block or two and purchasing a new ticket in some cases. Tickets can be purchased from machines at the stations.

The railway system comprises:

•KLMonorailRM1.20-RM2.50;6amtomidnight•KTMKomuterTrainsRM1perstop;6amto11:45pm•LightRailTransit(LRT)RM1-RM2.80;6amto11:45pm

Destination Premier (class 1) Superior (class 2) Economy (class 3)

Johor Bahru RM64++ RM33++ RM22++

Seremban RM19++ RM13++ RM7++

Singapore RM68++ RM34++ RM23++


TrainfaresfromKualaLumpur

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

ListofpublicholidaysinMalaysia(2014-2015)

In addition to national public holidays, each state has its own holidays, usually associated with the Sultan’s birthday or a Muslim celebration. Keep in mind that Muslim holidays move backward 11 or 12 days each year. Hindu and Chinese holidays also vary, but remain more or less in the same month. This list provides an overview of the main public holidays in Malaysia, but there are extra holidays in certain states only. For an updated version of public holidays visit www.publicholidays.com.my


2015

New Year’s Day 1 January Nuzul Al-Quran 5 July

Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday

3 January Hari Raya Puasa 28 - 29 July

Federal Territory Day 2 February National Day 31 August

Thaipusam 3 February Malaysia Day 16 September

Chinese New Year 19 - 20 February Hari Raya Haji 24 - 25 September

Good Friday(only Sabah & Sarawak)

3 April Awal Muharram 15 October

Labour Day 1 May Deepavali (except in Sarawak) 11 November

Wesak Day 3 MayProphet Muhammad’s Birthday

24 December

Agong’s Birthday 6 June Christmas 25 December

Officehours

Government offices are usually open from 8am to 4:15pm from Monday to Friday. Most close for lunch from 12:45pm to 2pm and on Friday the lunch break is from 12:15pm to 2:45pm for Friday prayers at the mosque.

Banks are open from 10am to 3pm on weekdays and 9:30am to 11:30am on Saturday.

Department stores, shopping malls and larger stores are open from around 10am to 9pm or 10pm, usually seven days a week. Of course, there are some shops that will be closed on certain days or hours, to the owner’s discretion.

Most parts of Malaysia follow a working week from Monday to Friday, with Saturday a half-day. Depending on the state, government offices, banks and many shops are closed on Friday and Saturday afternoon.

Visaregulations

Belgian citizens do not require a visa to visit Malaysia for a visit of less than 90 days. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after you enter Malaysia. If you are staying longer than 90 days in Malaysia, you need to contact the Malaysian embassy in Brussels. Malaysian citizens do not require a visa to visit Belgium or any Schengen countries for a visit of less than 90 days within a 6-month period. For work and study purposes, a visa is required.

Please consult the website of the Embassy for more details.

Customs

The following can be brought into Malaysia duty-free: up to 1L of alcohol, 225g of tobacco, gifts and souvenirs valued not exceeding RM400, Food preparations up to a total value not exceeding RM75. If more than these amounts are brought in, you are liable to pay duty on the excess amount.

There is a death penalty for drug trafficking or the possession of illicit drugs.

Electricity

Malaysia uses a United Kingdom type three-square pin plug, electricity supply of 220V to 240V. However, it is possible to use European plugs in multiple sockets or use an international travel adapter.


LANGUAGE

The official language of Malaysia is Malay, commonly referred to as ‘Bahasa’ or ‘Bahasa Melayu’. However, English is very widely spoken, especially in Kuala Lumpur. Many among the educated classes speak fluent English. The language of business is predominantly English as well.

In addition to Malay and English, many Malaysians speak several other languages including Tamil, Mandarin, Hokkien and Cantonese.

BasicMalaylexiconGeneralWords

Yes

No

Thank You

I am sorry

Excuse me

Hello

Goodbye

How are you?

Welcome

I come from Belgium

My name is …

I do not understand

Ya

Tidak

Terima Kasih

Saya minta ma-af

Ma-afkan saya

Hello

Selamat Jalan

Apa Khabar?

Selamat Datang

Saya dari Belgium

Nama saya …

Saya tidak faham


Transport

Shopping

Airport

Taxi

Train

Hotel

Exit

Entrance

Near

Petrol Station

Road/Street

Traffic Light

Slow Down

Stop

Straight Ahead

Turn Left

Turn Right

I am going to…

Lapangan Terbang

Teksi

Kereta Api

Hotel

Keluar

Masuk

Dekat

Stesyen Minyak

Jalan

Lampu Isyarat

Kurangkan Laju

Berhenti

Jalan Terus

Belok Kiri

Belok Kanan

Saya pergi ke…

How much?

How much does this cost?

Wait a minute

That’s expensive

Can you make it less?

Fine

Ok

I will buy it

Money

Berapa?

Berapa harganya?

Tunggu Sekejap

Mahal sangat

Boleh kurangkan sikit?

Baiklah

Boleh

Saya nak membelinya

wang; duit


Numbers

Satu

Dua

Tiga

Empat

Lima

Enam

Tujuh

Lapan

Sembilan

Sepuluh

Seratus, Dua ratus

Seribu, Dua ribu

Dua puluh satu

Seratus lima puluh dua

One

Two

Three

Four

Five

Six

Seven

Eight

Nine

Ten

One Hundred, two hundred etc

One Thousand, two thousand etc

Twenty One

One Hundred and Fifty Two


STUDYING IN MALAYSIA

Malaysia offers a number of options for both lower and higher education ranging from public, private, expatriate and international institutions, with a growing emphasis on international students and globally recognized courses. Standards of education can be argued to match Singapore or Hong Kong but often at more affordable prices. In addition to this, universities have begun to offer an extensive selection of courses and even programmes where qualifications from renowned institutions overseas can be attained whilst studying here, where the cost of living is significantly lower.

For example, an estimated annual cost of tuition fees in a private university/college/foreign university branch campus in Malaysia is RM20,000 and the estimated cost of living is RM15,000 a year. The total annual cost, RM35,000 is roughly equivalent to 9,000 €.

According to data in 2007, Malaysia is the top 11th destination in the world for international education/student enrolment at tertiary level. The bulk of international students enrolled in Malaysia come mostly from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Hence lower living and education costs, increasingly recognized qualifications, and a diverse cultural environment are all lucrative attractions to studying in Malaysia.

For more information see www.studymalaysia.com

MalaysianstudentsfromBelgianUniversities

There were many Malaysian students studying at Belgian Universities in the 70’s and 80’s, mostly in the field of agriculture and medicine. They have formed an alumni association in Malaysia.


3+0DegreeProgrammes

The ‘3+0’ programme is an extension of a previous ‘2+1’ programme that allows the completion of all three years of a partner university’s degree at a Malaysian institution. Students will conduct their entire bachelors degree in Malaysia with the foreign partner university awarding the qualification. The student registers with both institutions and follows the same syllabus and obtains the same qualifications as students in the host university overseas.

Thus, this allows students to obtain foreign university qualifications whilst paying in MYR for their course fees and living expenses.

ListofNotablePrivateUniversities

English is used as the primary medium of instruction at most private higher educational institutions while Bahasa Melayu is used in most public universities.

•HELPUniversityCollege,KualaLumpur•InternationalMedicalUniversity(IMU),KualaLumpur•KDUUniversityCollege•LimkokwingUniversityofCreativeTechnology(LUCT),Putrajaya•MalaysiaUniversityofScienceandTechnology(MUST),Selangor•MultimediaUniversity(MMU),Cyberjaya/Melaka•OpenUniversityMalaysia(OUM),KualaLumpur•SEGiUniversityCollege,Selangor•SunwayUniversity,Selangor•Taylor’sUniversity,Selangor•UniversitiTeknologiPetronas(UTP),Selangor•UniversitiTunAbdulRazak(UNITAR),Selangor/KualaLumpur•UniversityKualaLumpur(UniKL),KualaLumpur•UniversityTunkuAbdulRahman(UTAR),KualaLumpur

For a comprehensive list of universities seewww.mohe.gov.my

ListofForeignUniversityBranchCampuses

•TheUniversityofNottingham(UK)inKualaLumpur•MonashUniversity(Australia)inSelangor•NewcastleUniversity(UK)inJohor•CurtinUniversity(Australia)inSarawak•SwinburneUniversityofTechnology(Australia)inSarawak


BUSINESS IN MALAYSIA

ECONOMICHISTORY

At the independence of Malaysia in 1957, the country inherited an economy based on two main products: rubber and tin. In the 60’s and 70’s, the economic structure was determined by the income of raw minerals and agricultural products. From the 80’s onwards, the economy underwent a period of diversification and rapid growth, where new domestic and foreign investments appeared. Its economy transformed from the 1970s to the 1990s into a multi sector economy. One of the ideal targets of Malaysia is to become a developed country by 2030.

At present, Malaysia has a highly open economy with diversifying export markets, with the primary commodities being rubber, crude petroleum, tin, palm oil and saw logs.

OVERVIEWOFTHEECONOMY

Sectorofagriculture,forestryandfishery

Local production of food and the plantation of agricultural products for the international market of palm oil, rubber, cacao, fruits, pepper, wood, and coconut oil are the most important. The palm oil sector remains the top agricultural activity of Malaysia. Malaysia is the second largest producer of palm oil in the world (after Indonesia), with 60% of palm oil exports going to the EU, China, US, India and Pakistan. Malaysia accounts for 41% of world palm oil production and 47% of world palm oil exports.


SectorofOil&Gas;Mining&Quarrying

This includes the production and refinement of raw petrol, production of gas and exploitation of tin and other minerals such as copper, iron, bauxite, limestone, kaolin and silica. Malaysia is ranked 10th in the world and the 3rd in the Asia-Pacific region in terms of its gas reserves. It is the second largest exporter of liquefied natural gas after Qatar and profits from higher world energy prices. Around 38% of its reserves are found in the east coast of the Malaysian Peninsular while 48% is in offshore Sarawak and 14% in offshore Sabah.

Oil & gas supplies more than 40% of government revenue, mainly through the state oil producer, Petronas. It was ranked by Fortune as the 80th largest company in the world and the 13th most profitable. Petronas has become an integrated international company with business interests in more than 35 countries.

This sector is forecasted to hold 6.3% of the GDP in 2014 and employs an estimated 0.4% of the labour force in 2013.

SectorofManufacturing

Before the 70’s, Malaysia’s industrialization was based on the substitution of import through the production of goods made of local raw materials. From this period on, the country re-orientated its strategy to industry with high labour force intensity, based on exports. The government adjusted its priority into attracting foreign investments and the sector of electronic and electric products flourished. In the 80’s heavy industry such as steel and the automotive industry made their way into the country.


Felda Global Ventures Holdings (FGVH) or FELDA (Federal Land Development Authority), a Malaysian state owned company, is the world’s third largest palm oil company by acreage and is the world’s second largest initial public offering (IPO) after Facebook in 2012. It manages more than 2 million acres of plantation and Malaysia’s largest sugar mill. It has plantations in Indonesia, soybean and canola factories in US and Canada and is still looking for more plantations in South East Asia and Africa.

This sector is forecasted to hold 10.05% of the GDP in 2014 and employs an estimated 12.6% of the labour force in 2013.

In the 90’s Malaysia had to face the competitiveness of other emerging economies in the area such as China and Vietnam who employed low salary workers. The country was forced to shift its priority to more technologically advanced products. In other words, Malaysia went from labour intensive to capital-intensive industry. In 2011 the top 5 export of manufactured goods were: electronics, electrical machinery and appliances (46.6%); chemicals, chemical and plastic products (10.2%); petroleum products (7.8%); iron, steel and metal products (6.0%); machinery and equipment (4.6%). The manufacturing sector is forecasted to hold 27.2% of the GDP for 2014 and employs an estimated 28.9% of the labour force in 2013.

SectorofServices

This sector accounts for over half of the country’s GDP and employment. It consists of transportation, communication, tourism, distribution, bank and financial operators etc. The sector of services is forecasted to hold 58.9% of the GDP for 2014 and employs an estimated 53.1% of the labour force in 2013. Employment per type of service: finance, insurance, real estate and business services (7%); transport, storage and communication (5.8%); government services (10.2%); other services (30.1%).

SectorofConstruction

Owing to the rapid expansion of the economy, there has been an important demand from both private and public sectors. A real construction fever hit the country until right before the economic crisis of South-East Asia in 1997, resulting in delaying or even abandoning of several building projects. In 1998 the sector diminished by 20%. The construction sector is forecasted to hold 3.4% of the GDP for 2014 and employs an estimated 6.3% of the labour force in 2013.

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Some regions of the country are more industrialised than others, which make the wealth of the country unequally divided. The industrial regions of Malaysia are mainly concentrated in the states of the west coast of the peninsula (Penang, Kuala Lumpur, Selangor etc) and are export oriented. The east coast of the peninsula are the agricultural and resource processing areas. They still hold resources such as tin deposits, wood, petroleum, gas and gold deposits.


The eastern half of Malaysia, also known as Malaysian Borneo, boasts the rural and forested areas of the country. Their main industry is the processing oflocal raw materials such as timber, pepper, petroleum and gas. While less populated and less developed than West Malaysia, it has a larger land mass and more natural resources. Together, Sabah and Sarawak hold the bulk of the country’s oil reserves.

To counter the inequality of the economic development, government agencies have been installed in the rural regions, such as the State Economic Development Corporations and Regional Development Agencies, port authorities and municipality. These agencies are granted to intervene in the development of the rural zones and make up their own policies for incentives for potential investors.

BELGIUM-MALAYSIA TRADE

There are at present, around 1069 Belgian companies exporting to Malaysia, with a further 1731 companies interested in the market of exporting to Malaysia.



æ2014 - first 6 monthsMalaysia = 52nd client EUR 252.3 million: -29.5%

Malaysia = 48th supplier EUR 365.0 million: +18.2%

Trade balance: EUR -112.7 million

Major sections

Export Share Import Share

Chemical products 33.0% Machinery & equipment 30.5%

Machinery & equipment 22.6% Optical instruments 25.0%

Plastics 12.7% Plastics 14.2%

Major sections

Export Share Import Share

Chemical products 28.0% Machinery & equipment 31.3%

Base metals 25.4% Plastics 15.4%

Machinery & equipment 16.4% Optical instruments 12.0%

æ2013Malaysia = 50th client EUR 606.4 million: +26.9%

Malaysia = 46th supplier EUR 704.1 million: +12.0%

Trade balance: EUR -97.7 million

Belgium & malaysia

* Reproduction is authorised, provided the source is acknowledged.

BELGIAN INVESTMENTS IN MALAYSIA

There are over forty Belgian companies operational in Malaysia (see List of Belgian Companies in Malaysia) in a variety of sectors, the most prominent being the chemical sector, basic material sector and innovative technology sector.

The chemical sector including pharmaceuticals holds the largest amount of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Malaysia and has more than seven Belgian companies active within the sector. The basic materials industry holds the second largest amount of Belgian FDI and has more than five Belgian companies operational. The sector of innovative technology is an emerging sector in Malaysia and one Belgium has started to capitalise on.

Malaysia presents itself as a competitive production site as well as an incentive driven export site. Geographically, Malaysia is a convenient trade hub in the Asia-Pacific region and is often used as a ‘launch pad’ to access the Asian market and for global business in terms of sales and marketing. These reasons, together with its abundance of natural resources and politically stable climate, make Malaysia an attractive location for potential investment.

INVESTMENTINCENTIVESANDBARRIERS

Malaysia has been establishing, over the last twenty years, a number of incentives to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) aimed to promote the development of selected industries and activities. These include fiscal incentives, tariff incentives and exceptions from Bumiputera requirements. However, the government, through the policies, requirements and restrictions of its ministries, continues to maintain regulation of foreign investment.

The main body governing these incentives and barriers is the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA). www.mida.gov.my

Taxincentives

Direct tax incentives such as the Pioneer Status (generally a 70% income tax exemption over 5 years) and Investment Tax Allowance (generally 60% of capital expenditure over 5 years) have been introduced by the government, with up to 100% exemption available depending on the industry and activity. These exemptions are available for the sectors of Manufacturing, Agriculture, Tourism, Aerospace Industry, Knowledge based activities, Manufacturing related services, Environmental Management, R&D and Medical Devices industry.


Additional incentives include Investment allowance, Reinvestment allowance, Accelerated capital allowance and Tariff related incentives such as the exemption of import duty.

Regionalandindustrialincentives

In order to promote the investment and development of certain areas, additional incentives are provided to the five economic corridors of:

• ECER (Eastern Corridor Economic Region) which includes the States of Kelantan, Terengganu, Pahang and Mersing district of Johor www.ecerdc.com.my• Iskandar Malaysia based in the State of Southern Johor www.iskandarmalaysia.com.my• NCER (Northern Corridor Economic Region) which includes the States of Perlis, Kedah, Penang and Northern Perak www.ncer.com.my• SCORE (Sarawak Corridor of the Renewable Energy) based in the State of Sarawak www.sarawakscore.com.my/modules/web/• SDC (Sabah Development Corridor) based in the State of Sabah www.sedia.com.my

Barriers:Bumiputeraequityrequirement

Foreign investment in key sectors, including telecommunications, financial services, professional services, petroleum and gas, and mining is subject to certain restrictions including limitations of foreign equity (generally capped at 30%) and requirements that foreign firms enter into joint ventures with local partners.

Although initially the Foreign Investment Committee (FIC) Guidelines foresaw a general 30% minimum bumiputera (indigenous Malays) stake in locally incorporated companies, changes in 2009 allowed for the reduction of the 30% bumiputera equity requirement for newly listed companies to 12.5% for 27 services sub-sectors including ICT, healthcare and tourism (this is not applicable to strategic industries such as water, telecommunications, ports and energy).

While investors in industries targeted for FDI by the government often can negotiate favourable terms with ministries or other regulatory bodies (including case-by-case waivers of certain regulations), investors in non-targeted industries face a complex web of regulations and policies which can be an obstacle to investment.


Barriers:Publicprocurement

Public procurement, also known as Government procurement, plays a significant role in the Malaysian economy. There are formal procurement rules and policies in place that are designed to serve a variety of goals including economic development and the improvement of bumiputera economic status.

International tendering is only allowed when goods and services are not available locally. In most cases, foreign suppliers use local partners or intermediary to submit tenders. Bumiputera suppliers benefit from preferential treatment in international tendering that consists of a price bonus. All individuals, companies and corporate bodies wishing to participate in the procurement of works, supplies and services are required to be approved by the Ministry of Finance.

MALAYSIAANDASEAN

Malaysia is one of the founding members of the Association of South East Asian Nations, created in 1967. ASEAN has 10 participating states: Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. ASEAN has created the ASEAN Free Trade Area (AFTA) in order to have a free-exchange area.

Malaysia continues to play an important economic role in the ASEAN region with its economy being the 3rd largest in the region after Singapore and Thailand. The country’s values and interests are inherent in policies and projects of ASEAN such as its political and economic agreements (notably FTAs).

ASEAN as a whole represents the EU’s 3rd largest trading partner outside Europe (after the US and China), with Malaysia being EU’s second most important trading partner inside ASEAN. Because of this, the EU-ASEAN relationship remains vital to Belgium-Malaysia trade as evident with Belgium holding 3.9% of the total trade share between Malaysia-EU trade in 2011.


EU-MALAYSIA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT

Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the EU and Malaysia were opened in December 2010, with the aim being long-term framework for economic relations.

Although not yet established at the time of writing, the anticipated outcome is that European companies will benefit from improved market conditions and will gain a firmer foothold in the growing Asian market. It could potentially result in the eventual removal of tariffs on all trade in goods and the liberalization of the Malaysian services sector to levels exceeding WTO commitments. Malaysia is predicted to have an 8% GDP growth by 2020 if a comprehensive FTAis forged.


LISTOFBELGIANCOMPANIESINMALAYSIA

AGRIPHARSDNBHD16, Jalan Mutiara Emas 7/10Perindustrian Ringan Taman Mount Austin81100 Johor BahruTel:+6073525178Email:[email protected]: agricultural fungicides & herbicides

AGFA(ASEAN)SNDBHDUnit 704, Block B, 7th floor, Kelana Business Centre97, Jalan SS 7/247301 Kelana JayaTel:+60378827300www.agfa.comProduct: graphic films, medical & industrial products

BARCOMALAYSIASDNBHD27-1 & 27-2, Block D1, Jalan PJU 1/41, Dataran Prima47301 Petaling JayaTel:+60378803362www.barco.comProduct: projectors

BARRYCALLEBAUTMALAYSIA SDNBHDLot 2, Lebuh Sultan Mohamed 1Bandar Sultan Suleiman42000 Port KlangTel:+60331693333|+60331763082Email:[email protected]

BELGAZONEPRODUCTIONSDNBHD17-2A, Jalan Perdana 4/8Pandan Perdana Cheras55300 Kuala LumpurTel:+60166102484Email:[email protected]: photography

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BIOMOLECULARINDUSTRIES SDNBHDUnit B-05-3A, 5th floor, Block B(West Wing) PJ8 Office Suite N° 23Jalan Barat, Seksyen 846050 Petaling Jaya.Tel:+60377811611Email:[email protected]: radiopharmaceuticals and radioisotopes

BIOTECINTERNATIONALSDNBHDLot 35, N°8, Persiaran Kuda LariCountry Heights43000 KajangTel:+60387373700www.biotechcorp.com.myProduct: biogas & waste treatment

BKSN°12, Jalan High Tech 5, Kawasan Perindustrian High Tech,Off Jalan Sungai Lalang, 43500 SemenyihTel:+60387233629www.bks-pelletizing.comProduct: industrial knife productionand services.

BOCADSERVICEINTERNATIONALMenara Wisma MCISLevel 5, Tower 1, Jalan Barat, 46050 Petaling JayaTel:+60379549523Email:[email protected]: software for steel construction

COGEBIASIASDNBHDN°3, Lot 752, Jalan Subang 3,Taman Perindustrian Sungai Penaga, 47610 Subang JayaTel:+60356350800Email:[email protected]: mica products


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CONFISERIEJOSDNBHD48 Mezzanine Floor, Jalan Pasar41400 KlangTel:+60322888118Product: Leonidas chocolates retail

CYPORETECHNOLOGYSDNBHD(joint venture it4ip s.a. and Biocytech)7, Laluan Perusahaan kledang 9Chandan Raya Industrial Estate31450 IpohTel:+60125199098Email:[email protected]: R&D, medical devices, automation equipment and sales of Paptest business

DENNISTONSDNBHD26th Floor, UBN Tower10 Jalan P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala LumpurTel:+60320313418Email: [email protected]: architects

DESMETBALLESTRA(M)SDNBHDWisma ComcorpLevel 3, 37, Jalan Pelukis U1/ 46Temasya Industrial Park,Glenmarie40150 Shah AlamTel:+60355694829Email:[email protected]: oils & fats equipment, detergents, oleochemical and biodiesel industries

DPOINTERNATIONALSDNBHDDPO HouseB2-G, Lorong Selangor PusatKomersial GayaPusat Bandar Melawati53100 Kuala LumpurTel:+60341081282www.dpointernational.comProduct: food & beverage

E-CARBONASIASDNBHD71-71A, Jalan Sesama,Taman Perusahaan Batu caves68100 SelangorTel:+60361893614www.ecarbonasia.comProduct: carbon brushes

EMULCOSDNBHDBP Port Kelang InstallationLot 197 II & 197 III62, Jalan Pelabuhan Utara42000 Port KelangTel:+60331685193www.emulco.comProduct: wax emulsions

ETIQAAGEAS/MAYBANFORTISHOLDINGSSDNBHDDataran Maybank, 1, Jalan Maarof59000 Kuala LumpurTel:+60327853002www.etiqa.com.myProduct: financial and insurance products.

FLEXSYSASIAPACIFICSDNBHDLot 120/ 120A, Jalan Gebeng 2/3Gebeng Industrial Estate26080 KuantanTel:+6095856199www.flexsys.comProduct: chemicals

IBAMOLECULARINDUSTRIES SDNBHDUnit B-05-3A 5th floor, Block B (West Wing)PJ 8 Office Suite N°23Jalan BaratSeksyen 846050 Petaling JayaTel:+60377811611Email:[email protected]: radio-isotopes & radiopharmaceuticals


ICMTECHNICALSERVICESSDNBHD8, Jalan Industri USJ 1/8Taman Perindustrian USJ 147600 Subang JayaTel:+60380231161Email:[email protected]: industrial radiology

JANDENULLevel 2, Lot A, Bangunan PerisindJalan Timbalan80000 Johor BahruTel:+6072210520www.jandenul.comActivity: dredging

KEWLOXCABINETSLevel G3, shop A4-1-011 Jalan Dutamas54800 Kuala LumpurTel:+60362114961Email:[email protected]: furniture

LHOIST(M)SDNBHDSuite 3A-3, Level 3A Menara CIMBJalan Stesen Sentral 2,Kuala Lumpur Sentral,50470 Kuala LumpurTel:+60328591000www.lhoist.comProduct: limestone and lime products.

LVD(M)SDNBHD14, Jalan Kartunis U1/47Seksyen U1, Temasya Industrial Park40150 Selangor.Tel:+60355695861www.lvd.com.myProduct: machine tools

NINOLAC(M)SDNBHD12, Lintang Sg Keramat 2BTaman Klang Utama42100 KlangTel:+60332914589www.belourthe.beProduct: baby cereals

MATERIALISEUnit 5-01, Menara OBYUNo. 4, Jalan PJU 8/8A,Damansara Perdana47820 Petaling JayaTel:+60377241415Email:[email protected]: software development.

ODYSCIENCEASIASDNBHDLevel 20, Menara Standard Chartered30, Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Kuala LumpurTel:+60321175262Mobile:+60129765004Email: [email protected]: service in the pharmaceutical and nutritional industry

OLEONASIA-PACIFICSDNBHDSuite 28-08 Level 28, Centro8 Jalan Batu Tiga Lama41300 KlangSelangor Darul EhsanTel:+60333452782Email:[email protected]: oleochemicals

PALINGINDUSTRIESSDNBHDLot 12, Jalan Perusahaan 4, 68100 Batu CavesSelangor Darul EhsanTel:+60361898333Email:[email protected]: PVC pipes, fittings and sanitary war

PRODYCOTECHNOLOGIES SDNBHD5/2 Persiaran Syed Putra 3,Taman Persiaran Desa50460 Kuala LumpurTel:+326828262www.prodyco-technologies.com


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ROMATINTERNATIONAL (ASIAPACIFIC)LTD19, Lorong DungunDamansara Heights50490 Kuala Lumpur.Tel:+60320958555Email:[email protected]: building materials

PUPROFILESDNBHDLot 5834, Jalan Perusahaan 3, Kamunting Industrial Estate34600 KamuntingPerak Darul RidzuanTel:+6058912188www.puprofile.comProduct: Architectural polyurethane mouldings

SIBELCOMALAYSIASDNBHDUnit 201D, Level 2, Tower D, Uptown 55, Jalan SS21/39 Damansara Uptown47400 Petaling Jaya.Tel:+60377299822www.sibelcoasia.comProduct: kaolin

SILTERRA(M)SDNBHDLot 8, Phase IIKulim Hi Tech Park09000 KulimKedah Darul AmanTel:+6044015111Email:[email protected]: semiconductor and micro devices industry

STRAITSDESIGNSDNBHD1, Jalan BRP 9/1DPerusahaan Bukit Rahman Putra47000 Sungei BulohTel:+60361572228www.straits-design.comProduct: street and industrial light fittings

SUNSHINESPECIALITIESSDNBHDNo.2 Jalan PJS 11/14Bandar Sunway46150 Petaling JayaTel:+603356313887www.fibruline.comProduct: fibruline food ingredient

PURATOSMALAYSIASDNBHDLot 8, Jalan 2/32AMukim Batu, Batu 6 1/2, Jalan Kepong, 52000 Kuala Lumpur.Tel:0362593230Fax:0362593231Email:[email protected]: bakery ingredients

TAMINCONV-MALAYSIALIAISONOFFICEUnit B-117, Block B 1st floor17, Kelana Square47301 Jalan SS7/Kelana JayaPetaling JayaTel:+60374944866www.taminco.comProduct: production & marketing of alkylamines and derivatives

TIDEWAYDISDNBHD(Regional office of DEME)Level 20 Menara Standard Chartered, 30 Jalan Sultan Ismail50250 Kuala LumpurTel:+60321175368Email:[email protected]: dredging

TVHMALAYSIASDNBHD42, Jalan Tabla 33/21Shah Alam Technology Park, Seksyen 33, 40460 Shah AlamTel:+60351211199Email: [email protected]: fork lift parts and spare parts


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UMICOREMALAYSIASDNBHDPLO 376, Jalan Perak 4Pasir Gudang Industrial Estate81700 Pasir GudangTel:+6072547407Email: [email protected]: zinc metal pigments

VANBREDAINTERNATIONAL3B-15-3A, level 15, Block 3BPlaza Sentral, Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, 50470 Kuala Lumpur.Tel:+603232176824Product: insurance & finance

VESUVIUSKSRSDNBHDLot PT 11693 (Block B), Kawasan Industri,Bandar Sultan Suleiman42000 Pelabuhan Kelang.Tel:+60331760508www.vanbreda-international.comProduct: refractory and specialty ceramics

VICTORBUYCKSTEELCONSTRUCTIONSDNBHDLot 51, Oakland Industrial Park70200 SerembanTel:+6067649008Product: steel construction

VYNCKESDNBHDC-17-07, Level 7, Block C, 3 Two Square, 2 Jalan 19/146300 Petaling JayaSelangor Darul EhsanTel:+60379529000www.vyncke.comProduct: agricultural burners & boilers

X-FABSARAWAKSDNBHD1, Silicon Drive SamaJaya FTZ93350 KuchingTel:+6082354888Email:[email protected]: foundry products

ZENTECHASIASATechnology Park MalaysiaBukit Jalil57000 Kuala Lumpurwww.zentech.beProduct: IVD kits for prenatal, neonatal, paediatric use

BEKAERTSOUTHERNWIRE SDNBHD40000 Lot 4808, Jalan Utas 15/7, P.O.Box 15 Shah Alam 40200 SelangorTel:+60355191501www.bekaert.comProducts: Drawn steel wire products and advanced coatings

SWIFTCorporate Services CentreLevel 18, Tower 3 Avenue 7Bangsar South, No.8 Jalan Kerinchi59200 Kuala Lumpur,Tel:+60327737500www.swift.comProduct: Financial communication platform

CONFIRMEDPROJECTS:EUROFIT | Milk productionPL DISTRIBUTION | Chocolate store


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