Kuala lumpur: Collaboration between local companies and multinational corporations (MNCs) can serve as a good model to strengthen Malaysian brands and move the country beyond merely being a manufacturing base, said Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Steven Sim. He stated that Malaysian companies must develop their own products, services, technology, trademarks, and branding to remain competitive amid growing global economic challenges.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sim emphasized that this shift is not about self-flattery by changing from 'Made in Malaysia' to 'Made by Malaysia', but a necessary response to the global economic trend, which presents tough competition not only in the region but also from major economies. Protectionist policies involving tariffs and rapid technological changes are additional challenges that need addressing. He shared these insights on the sidelines of launching a collaboration between Tealive operator Loob Holding Sdn Bhd and Dutch Lady Milk Industries Bhd.
Also present were Dutch Lady Malaysia managing director Veronika Utami and Loob Holding Sdn Bhd founder and chief executive officer Bryan Loo. Sim highlighted that Malaysia's previous economic model focused on building factories and manufacturing products, with technology, branding, and design held by foreign companies. He stressed the need for Malaysian companies to build their own capabilities for long-term sustainability.
Citing Tealive and Dutch Lady's collaboration as an example, Sim noted that the partnership illustrates how an MNC investing in Malaysia can enhance the value of a local company. He expressed a desire to see more such collaborations, particularly those involving local entrepreneurs.
During the launch, Tealive and Dutch Lady introduced new products: MooTea, a signature milk tea, and MeowCha, a signature matcha drink. These products are part of a ready-to-drink dairy milk tea range inspired by cafe favorites. The collaboration leverages Tealive's beverage innovation expertise and cafe-style flavors with Dutch Lady Malaysia's dairy expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and nationwide retail distribution network, aiming to offer cafe-inspired drinks in supermarkets and convenience stores across the nation.
The products are currently available nationwide at major retail outlets, including Jaya Grocer and 99 Speedmart stores, as well as other leading supermarket and convenience store chains.