Kuala Lumpur: The Consortium of Indian Industries in Malaysia (CIIM) marked its 20th anniversary with a renewed commitment to deepen industrial ties between India and Malaysia, focusing on digital technology, clean energy, smart manufacturing, and biotechnology. Speaking at a recent gala event here, CIIM founder chairman Datuk Umang Sharma highlighted the journey that began in April 2005 with a small group of Indian companies, which has since grown into a formidable platform representing more than 200 Indian firms operating in Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, these companies have invested over US$3 billion, created more than 30,000 jobs, transferred technology, and forged long-term partnerships that continue to contribute to Malaysia’s economic growth. CIIM was officially launched on December 9, 2005, by India’s then Commerce Minister Kamal Nath. The idea was conceived during a meeting at Ranbaxy’s Kuala Lumpur office, with the aim of uniting Indian businesses and advancing bilateral trade.
Sharma credited Malaysian government agencies for their business-friendly policies and collaborative approach, which have helped Indian industries flourish locally. He also acknowledged the support of the Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur for guiding CIIM through trade missions and business expansion efforts across Malaysian states. Bilateral trade has grown significantly, exceeding US$20 billion annually, with key sectors including palm oil, petroleum, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and engineering goods. Sharma also noted rising Malaysian investments in India, particularly in infrastructure, solar energy, and healthcare.
Looking ahead, Sharma stated that CIIM would focus on building synergies aligned with Malaysia’s Madani economic agenda and India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Digital India’ initiatives. He outlined three strategic priorities for CIIM: deepening collaboration with Malaysian institutions, empowering SMEs and start-ups, and strengthening policy advocacy to support a transparent and conducive investment environment.
As part of its anniversary celebrations, CIIM will host a golf tournament on August 15 to mark India’s Independence Day, followed by a gala dinner. A bilateral business summit is also planned for December, coinciding with CIIM’s founding date. “Twenty years is a proud milestone, but it is only the beginning of a greater journey. Let us step into this new chapter with greater energy, deeper collaboration, and a renewed commitment to excellence,” Sharma said.