KUALA LUMPUR, July 24 (Bernama) --The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) today organised a Business Forum for the Indian Diaspora in an effort to promote Malaysia as a trade and investment partner.

It was attended by over 400 participants comprising prominent international industrialists and investors from the textile, manufacturing, tourism, agriculture and information technology sectors, said Matrade in a statement here today.

The forum was held in conjunction with the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary and International Kongu Convention organised by the Malaysia Namakkal Welfare Association at Stadium Putra in Bukit Jalil yesterday.

Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dzulkifli Mahmud said the forum was aimed at promoting Malaysian capabilities in various sectors to the Indian business community gathered here for the International Kongu Convention.

"It provides a great platform for Matrade and Mida under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry to promote Malaysia's trade and investment opportunities to international industrialists in the targeted sectors," he added.

In addition, there was a business networking session between the foreign businessmen and Malaysian companies.

"This is an effective initiative to promote Malaysia and we hope such programmes will result in greater opportunities to expand exports and increase investments," said Dzulkifli.

Meanwhile, the Diamond Jubilee Anniversary and the International Kongu Convention themed, "Cultural Awareness (Panbaadu Kaappom)", has attracted 15,000 Kongu communities from many countries, including India, Sri Lanka, the United States, Canada, Germany, South Africa and Singapore.