US logistics firm DHL has reaffirmed its partnership with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA) through a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) to support Malaysia’s position as leading logistics hub.
The duo said in a statement on last Thursday that under this agreement, all four DHL divisions operating in Malaysia — DHL Express, DHL Supply Chain, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL eCommerce — will work closely with MIDA to strengthen the logistics and supply chain ecosystem, supporting Malaysia’s position as a leading hub for foreign investment (FI).
The announcement builds on a successful collaboration since 2023, where joint efforts with MIDA’s global and local offices have yielded significant investment outcomes.
These encompassed key priority sectors including electrical and electronics, pharmaceutical, digital economy, aerospace, and chemicals—diversified across eight states: Kedah, Penang, Perak, Johor, Melaka, Sabah, Sarawak, and Selangor.
“Malaysia’s logistics sector has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a powerhouse of innovation and technological advancement,
“We’re witnessing developments in digital technology and smart automation, from artificial intelligence (AI)-powered route optimization and real-time tracking to advanced warehouse robotics and autonomous delivery systems,” said Sikh Shamsul Ibrahim Sikh Abdul Majid, Chief Executive Officer of MIDA.
“Through MIDA’s proactive assistance and facilitation, we’ve created an ecosystem that nurtures these technological advancements and our renewed partnership with DHL represents a strategic alliance that will accelerate Malaysia’s journey towards becoming the region’s premier smart logistics hub,” he added.
Meanwhile, Julian Neo, Managing Director of DHL Express Malaysia and Brunei, said as multi-shoring and multi-sourcing increase in strategic prevalence, Malaysia is well-positioned to capitalize on this momentum due to its regional connectivity and conducive business ecosystem.
“With our extensive network and experience in facilitating cross-border trade, DHL Express is proud to assist MIDA in appealing to global investors by enabling seamless market entry and providing end-to-end logistics solutions,
“Together, we can make effective progress in our shared mission to bolster the country’s competitive and innovative potential,” he added.
Mario Lorenz, Managing Director, DHL Supply Chain Malaysia, said that the expanded partnership between DHL and MIDA also reaffirms their commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s position as a leading regional logistics hub.
“Our investments in expanding our warehouse footprint and capabilities, including our new warehouse in Southern Malaysia and the opening of Penang Logistics Hub 5, align perfectly with the goals of this MOU,
“This enables us to continue attracting and supporting global investors in Malaysia,” he said.
By combining the firm’s logistics expertise with MIDA’s vision, he opined that the firm is not only enhancing supply chain resilience for multinational corporations but actively contributing to the nation’s broader economic ambitions.
Christopher Lim, Managing Director, DHL Global Forwarding Singapore, Malaysia and Brunei, said that for multinational corporations eyeing Southeast Asia for expansion, Malaysia emerges as a prime destination, combining strategic geographic advantages with robust infrastructure and business-friendly policies.
While technology and manufacturing remain its cornerstone sectors, he said the country also offers compelling opportunities in high-growth sectors such as life sciences and healthcare, as well as perishables.
“At DHL Global Forwarding Malaysia, we partner with international businesses to capitalize on these opportunities through our end-to-end logistics solutions that optimize supply chains and accelerate market penetration,
“Our enhanced partnership with MIDA underscores Malaysia’s readiness to welcome global investors, multiplying their confidence to scale seamlessly while contributing to the
nation’s economic ambitions,” he added.
Saurabh Kumar, Managing Director of DHL eCommerce Malaysia, said that as global e-commerce continues its strong momentum with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7 percent annually until 2030, Malaysia stands out as a strategic gateway for international brands seeking regional growth.
“DHL eCommerce plays a pivotal role in seamlessly connecting international supply chains to local markets by supporting with our fulfillment and last-mile delivery services,
“We ensure that goods move swiftly and securely from homes and businesses nationwide, enabling true end-to-end delivery within Malaysia,” he said.
He also said the firm’s partnership with MIDA strengthens this mission, helping global businesses reach local consumers faster, more reliably and efficiently.
“By bridging global supply chains with Malaysia’s dynamic consumer base, we are not only enhancing delivery reliability and customer experience but also reinforcing the nation’s position as an attractive, investor-ready logistics market,” he added.
DHL said the firm is committed to raising Malaysia’s profile among multinational corporations (MNCs) looking to diversify their manufacturing and sourcing operations.
With DHL’s strong footprint in Malaysia and end-to-end logistics and supply chain capabilities, DHL said it can support foreign businesses to strengthen their supply chain resilience by leveraging Malaysia’s strategic location.
Additionally, it noted that the firm is well positioned to support the country’s New Industrial Master Plan (NIMP) 2030 in achieving its sustainable development targets.
All four of DHL Group’s globally operating divisions are present in Malaysia, comprising DHL Express, DHL Supply Chain, DHL Global Forwarding, and DHL eCommerce.
Together, they offer an unparalleled portfolio of services encompassing international express; supply chain management; road, air, and sea freight; and domestic delivery.
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