Malaysia showcases local Products at AFMGM-12 side event
Titled “Malaysia Open House 2025,” the exhibition invited delegates and visitors to from all 13 Malaysian states and three federal territories, each hosted their own booth showcasing distinct cultural identities.
The booth of Sabah State at the exhibition (Photo: VNA)
Kuala Lumpur (VNA)♏ – Malaysia has hosted an exhibition highlighting local products and youth-focused initiatives on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Finance Ministers’ and Central Bank Governors' Meeting (AFMGM-12) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Titled “Malaysia Open House 2025,” the exhibition invited delegates and visitors to from all 13 Malaysian states and three federal territories, each hosted their own booth showcasing distinct cultural identities.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Malaysia’s Second Finance Minister Amir Hamzah Azizan said the event was part of efforts to promote local industries, tourism, and youth employment. He also highlighted the iTEKAD programme, a social finance initiative designed to support microenterprises, particularly small-scale traders seeking business financing.
Cultural performances featuring traditional music and dance were also part of the exhibition.
The exhibition was supported by various government agencies, including the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation (Kraftangan Malaysia), the Ministry of Federal Territories, the Prime Minister’s Office, and leading financial institutions.
AFMGM-12 gathered around 300 delegates, including ASEAN finance ministers, central bank governors, representatives from international financial organisations, and private sector leaders, to discuss strategies for advancing regional financial integration and growth./.
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