Logistics and connectivity: Cornerstones of Asean development, says Dr Wee

Logistics and connectivity are key driving factors for Asean’s development, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong. The former Transport Minister acknowledged maritime transport’s essential role in international trade, adding that land or rail transport must also be considered a highly effective alternative.

“For example, the Pan-Asia Railway network, which connects Singapore Port, Port Klang, Thailand, Laos, and Kunming, China, will undoubtedly benefit the countries involved by facilitating easier and less restricted international trade,” he said in a Facebook post on Saturday (Nov 23).

The MCA president was a speaker at the opening ceremony of the 11th Global Logistics Alliance (GLA) Conference in Bangkok.

Dr Wee said that connectivity between countries is not limited to just the transportation of goods by sea, air and land. “It also includes the sharing of information, capital, and human resources, especially in the field of the digital economy in this new era,” he said.

“Therefore, establishing a comprehensive international logistics network remains a significant challenge and requires full cooperation from various parties,” Dr Wee added.

During the GLA conference, Dr Wee also witnessed the signing ceremony of the agreement as GLA’s strategic partner. He also had the opportunity to meet and interact with logistics industry players from Malaysia. “I am confident that Malaysia will be able to experience the benefits of a vibrant and challenging regional logistics development.

“Many foreign participants are also interested to know more about Malaysia’s potential in the global logistics sector,” said Dr Wee.

Also present at the conference were GLA president Grace Sun, Thailand’s former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand Phongthep Thepkanjana, who is also a policy advisor to Thailand’s Prime Minister, and Asean-China Business Association president Darwin Yong.