The 13th World Chinese Economic Forum (WCEF) concluded today at AsiaWorld-Expo, bringing together global leaders, policymakers and experts to discuss the future of trade, investment and technology-driven economic transformation. Organised by the International Strategy Institute (ISI), this year’s Forum carried the theme “Empowering Global Prosperity Through Innovation, Connectivity and Shared Progress.”

Image above: Mr. C.Y. Cheah presenting a token of appreciation to H.E. Dato’ Norman bin Muhamad

Mr. C.Y. Cheah delivering the Welcoming Keynote Remarks at the 13th WCEF

In his Welcoming Keynote Remarks, Mr. C.Y. Cheah, Founder of WCEF and Chairman of ISI, reaffirmed the Forum’s mission to promote dialogue and cooperation. He highlighted Hong Kong’s strategic position as a gateway between the Greater Bay Area, ASEAN and global markets, and announced the joint opening of WCEF with the 2025 GIS Global Innovation Show & Global Innovation Summit, marking deeper collaboration between technology and business communities.

H.E. Dato’ Norman bin Muhamad delivering the Opening Keynote Remark

Malaysia’s Ambassador to China, His Excellency Dato’ Norman bin Muhamad, stressed that the future of global prosperity depends on technology adoption, regional connectivity and inclusive development. His Excellency reiterated Malaysia’s commitment, as ASEAN Chair for 2025, to strengthening digital transformation, sustainable investment and ASEAN–China cooperation. The Ambassador also underscored the need for responsible digitalisation to ensure that innovation builds trust and benefits communities.

Tan Sri T.C. Goh delivering his Special Remarks during the Forum

In his special remarks, Tan Sri T.C. Goh, Life Honourable President of The Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong), urged Malaysian Chinese businesses to consider advancing into high-technology sectors. He noted that rising income levels and shifting industrial competitiveness present new opportunities for Malaysian enterprises to pursue higher value-added production and technological upgrading.

Mr. C.Y. Cheah with the three distinguished panellists of the Forum’s signature session

A key feature of the Forum was the panel session titled “The Future of Trade and Investment: Technology, Connectivity, and Global Business Transformation,” featuring Dr. Liaw Siau Chi (New Era University College), Mr. Fu Jia Yi (JA Solar Technology) and Professor Kitti Prasirtsuk (Thammasat University). The panellists discussed the rapid shift in global economic dynamics driven by artificial intelligence, digital platforms, renewable energy and geopolitical changes.

From left to right: Dato' Nik Suhaimi Bin Nik Sulaiman, Tan Sri Goh Tian Chuan, His Excellency Dato' Norman Bin Muhamad, Mr C.Y. Cheah, Dato Jacky Chee Kong Hwee and Professor Kitti Prasirtsuk

The successful conclusion of the 13th WCEF reaffirmed its role as an important platform connecting the global Chinese business community. Mr. Cheah closed the Forum by calling for continued partnership and shared ambition to build a more open, resilient and sustainable economic future.

For more information, visit https://wcef-forum.org & https://istrategyglobal.org

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