YEAR

2022

Asia

Asia business experience – 【Malaysia】 The only country in Southeast Asia with domestic automobile manufacturers

　Malaysia is a popular country for long-term stays and migrations. I first visited Malaysia in the 1990s, but I felt that prices were cheap, the food was delicious, and the city was safe. Malaysians are multiracial, mainly Malay, Chinese and Indian. They also have different cultural backgrounds. One of the reasons why Malaysia is so popular may be because it embraces diversity. 　As you may know, Malaysia is the only country in Southeast Asia where there are domestic automobile manufactures. There are two companies, Proton and Perodua. I had the opportunity to visit an automobile manufacturer for a business meeting. It made me think about what it takes to survive and grow in the competitive automotive industry. （Image: Automobile company in Malaysia）

Asia

Asia business experience – 【Myanmar】A country that feels nostalgic

　I first visited Myanmar in 2015. I have had many business trips to Asian countries, but I have never had a business trip to Myanmar until then. Around 2015, economic sanctions were lifted, efforts for economic development began, and democratization was promoted. 　I stayed in the center of Yangon, but the number of Japanese restaurants was gradually increasing. I was able to hear from a person who publishes a newspaper for Japanese people locally. He said he wanted to spend the rest of his life in Myanmar. When I asked him why, he said that he did not feel uncomfortable with Myanmar and rather felt nostalgic. It is true that there are many temples and 90% of them are Buddhist, so I think it gives a sense of familiarity. The city was full of energy and people were busy, but I realized that it was a calming country. （Image: Yangon, Myanmar）