Bin Zayed International Group Expands into Southeast Asia with New Office in Kuala Lumpur

Global investment leader Bin Zayed International Group of Companies (BZI) has officially launched its latest office at the Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) in Kuala Lumpur, marking the firm’s entry into Southeast Asia. This new venture, Bin Zayed International (M) Bhd, will serve as a strategic base for BZI’s operations in the region, opening up new opportunities for investment and business expansion.

The move aligns with the growing economic significance of Southeast Asia, which is projected to be one of the world’s fastest-growing regions in the next decade. In 2023, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) economy was the world’s fifth-largest, with a nominal GDP of USD 3.8 trillion. By 2030, the region is expected to climb to the fourth spot globally, highlighting the vast potential that BZI intends to tap into.

Sheikh Khalifa Khaled Zayed Saquer Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of Bin Zayed International Group, expressed the company’s commitment to Southeast Asia, stating, “Our presence in Malaysia marks another step forward in our journey from local roots in the United Arab Emirates to global expansion. As Southeast Asia stands poised to become an economic powerhouse, we are dedicated to becoming stakeholders in this region by contributing to its growth and fostering widespread prosperity.”

The establishment of Bin Zayed International (M) Bhd in Malaysia is designed to leverage the country’s strategic location and its significant resources. These include a robust infrastructure, high digital connectivity, a skilled workforce, and strong relations with neighboring countries. Malaysia’s solid regulatory framework, alongside its leadership in Islamic finance, makes it an attractive destination for global investments, especially for firms with a focus on Shariah-compliant financial services.

As part of its expansion strategy, BZI has committed to investing USD 2 billion in Malaysia over the next five years. This investment is expected to drive growth and innovation, contributing to Malaysia’s long-term economic goals.

The opening of Bin Zayed International (M) Bhd was commemorated with a two-part event, which began with an exclusive ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Sheikh Khalifa Khaled Zayed Saquer Zayed Al Nahyan, accompanied by his son Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Other dignitaries present included Sheikh Midhat Kidwai, Group Managing Director of Bin Zayed Group, and Dato’ Sri Dr. Shamir Kumar Nandy, Managing Director of Bin Zayed International (M) Bhd.

In the evening, a formal gala brought together governmental officials, industry leaders, and foreign dignitaries, underscoring the significance of BZI’s expansion. Attendees included His Highness Prince Abdul Hakeem Ibni Jefri Bolkiah of Brunei, Her Excellency Betty Oyella Bigombe, High Commissioner of the Republic of Uganda, and Her Excellency Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia.

A notable addition to the event was renowned film icon Datuk Shah Rukh Khan, who congratulated BZI on its expansion and expressed admiration for the company’s global growth vision.

The official opening was attended by YB Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari Bin Abdul, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia, who spoke on behalf of the Prime Minister of Malaysia. He praised BZI’s commitment to Malaysia’s economic growth and outlined the government’s support for the group’s operations in the country.

Delivering a speech on behalf of Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, YB Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari Bin Abdul emphasized Malaysia’s appeal as a growing hub for international investors. “The presence of BZI here is not just a testament to Malaysia’s growing relevance on the global stage, but also a catalyst for shared economic prosperity,” he said. He also highlighted the government’s Madani Economy Framework, which focuses on inclusive growth and sustainable development for the benefit of all Malaysians.

“As we prepare to chair ASEAN in 2025, our focus on ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability’ will drive efforts to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity within the region,” he continued. “The Malaysian government remains committed to working with the private sector to create policies that foster growth and a competitive business environment.”

Dato’ Sri Dr. Shamir Kumar Nandy, Managing Director of Bin Zayed International (M) Bhd, expressed the company’s vision for long-term success in the region. He said, “We want to build a future we all want. We do this by passionately owning the vision and relentlessly pursuing it. We will focus on what we can do better than any other organization in the world, and that will be our path to success.”

Bin Zayed International Group’s growth in Southeast Asia aligns with Malaysia’s broader goals for sustainable and equitable development, with a strong emphasis on regional collaboration and innovation. As part of Malaysia’s commitment to economic diversification, the government is introducing a New Incentive Framework in 2025, which will be supported by a RM 1 billion investment fund to drive long-term growth, support high-impact industries, and develop local talent.

Through strategic partnerships and investments, BZI and Malaysia are poised to build a future that is not only economically prosperous but also socially and environmentally responsible. With the continued support of the Malaysian government, BZI aims to play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic landscape for years to come.