Uniting ASEAN’s Industrial & Commercial Sectors for the Future of ASEAN-China Trade

Lee Khai Jun

• 2 min read
Uniting ASEAN’s Industrial & Commercial Sectors for the Future of ASEAN-China Trade

Kuala Lumpur, 26th March 2025 – Communication 21 Media Group has once again brought together key voices from across Malaysia’s industrial and commercial landscape at a landmark session held at The Pavilion Damansara Heights Corporate Tower.

Following the success of our previous “Partner with Us for ASN-China Business” session, this latest event focused on a powerful message by Dr. (h.c.) Benny Yeo, Founder of Communication 21 Media Group — a call to unite ASEAN’s fragmented industries in preparation for the imminent influx of Chinese industrial and commercial players into the region.

In his keynote address, Dr. Benny Yeo emphasized the urgent need for regional integration and structured collaboration across ASEAN’s industrial sectors. He highlighted two key efforts:

  • ASEAN-Connect Initiative (东盟互联互通倡议) – A regional collaboration platform dedicated to digitally transforming and uniting ASEAN’s industrial and commercial players.
  • China-To-ASEAN Initiative (中国至东盟倡议)  – A structured cross-border programme designed to promote China's industries into ASEAN through a hybrid of digital and offline engagement.

At the core of both initiatives is Industry Connect, a Digital Transformation Programme powered by catTHIS, an AI-enabled platform that facilitates intelligent business matching, supply chain optimization, and lead generation between ASEAN and China. These efforts are proudly endorsed by the Global Confederation of Belt and Road Economic Cooperation (一带一路全球经济合作联盟总会).

 The event saw enthusiastic participation from Malaysian trade associations, many of whom voiced their commitment to supporting the ASEAN-Connect Initiative. Discussions focused on building smart supply chains, enhancing digital trade engagement, and preparing local businesses for long-term partnerships with their Chinese counterparts.

“This is more than an initiative — it’s a movement to redefine ASEAN’s industrial landscape,” shared Dr. Benny Yeo. “Together, we are building the most powerful bridge between ASEAN and China.”

Join the Transformation Businesses and associations are encouraged to join the ASEAN-Connect Business Community, a growing regional network advancing connectivity, visibility, and sustainable industrial growth in ASEAN.