CREATING the enabling environment to facilitate trade and promote investments is a top priority of countries in their quest to maintain economic growth and remain competitive.

Over the years, countries unilaterally or through regional collaboration have undertaken initiatives to review, improve, simplify or eliminate redundant rules, regulations and procedures so that businesses can thrive and prosper.

Malaysia’s Government transformation programme emphasises the need to provide a conducive business environment for the country to remain a major trading nation and favoured investment destination in the region.

The 10th Malaysia Plan, which charts the development of the nation for the next five years (2011-2015), has set a target for Malaysia to be ranked among the top 10 countries on the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business by 2015.

Malaysia has already initiated regulatory reforms unilaterally in many areas to improve the Government delivery system and business environment.

Among other initiatives, Malaysia’s engagement in Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) has contributed to improving the business climate.