MATRADE Annual Report 2020 12 CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE Overcoming barriers with solutions To this, MATRADE responded with a slew of dynamic countermeasures. We explored and set in place an adaptive stance which utilised alternative methods in organising programmes and keeping trade activities ongoing. Our spirits were not dampened nor were our pursuits hindered. Instead we steered local exporters and instilled new norms of trade activity through online channels, thanks to our earlier efforts in setting up a robust and functional digital infrastructure within MATRADE. Throughout 2020, our thrust has been anchored in close collaboration. At MATRADE, it has always been imperative that relationships between public and private sectors remain strong and sustained in supporting businesses move forward. By charting new ground through digital channels, we were able to continue such efforts through a host of “new normal” activities which quickly gained traction and kept trade activities in motion. Every so often, our resolve is tested in the most intense and prolonged manner. When such instances do present themselves, we will not be appraised for what we endured, but instead, for how we react. The year 2020 was for all intents and purposes a year of such persuasion. It was when our determination and perseverance was not only stretched, but our calibre to welcome the hurdles with reactive measures as the sole agency tasked with developing Malaysia’s external trade. Our immediate priority was to sustain exports and assist local companies in continuing export-related activities in sustaining our position as a competitive international trading nation. The times dictated that we realign our priorities to correspond with the Government’s initiatives to keep businesses afloat while ensuring our exports receive continuous interest from foreign buyers.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NjUyODU0