Mak Joon Nien, Managing Director and CEO of Standard Chartered Malaysia has been appointed the new Chairman of the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC) effective 28 June following the 6th BMCC Annual General Meeting.

With over 26 years of experience in investment and corporate banking, Mak is the first Malaysian CEO of the country’s oldest bank, which has been in operation since 1875. He has been instrumental in implementing the Bank’s business strategies and performance and is responsible for overall corporate governance in Malaysia. Mak has served on the BMCC Board since 2022, having previously held roles as the Chamber’s Co-Deputy Chairman and most recently Interim Chairman.

Mak’s extensive regional experience, deep understanding of the financial industry, and commitment to ESG position him as a pivotal leader for the Chamber. The BMCC aims to leverage his expertise to drive strategic initiatives, enhance member engagement, and foster a robust business ecosystem. Under his leadership, the Chamber seeks to strengthen bilateral trade relations between the UK and Malaysia, create new opportunities for collaboration, and support the growth and success of member businesses.

“The past three months as Interim Chairman of the BMCC have been incredibly fulfilling and enriching. The BMCC Board of Directors is a close-knit group with a strong sense of purpose and dedication to the Chamber’s mission. During my tenure, I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact our efforts have had on fostering bilateral trade between the UK and Malaysia.

We have a formidable Board representing the very best of Malaysia and UK businesses. As Chairman, I am eager to build on this momentum and collaborate closely with our highly capable and experienced BMCC Board Members, Committee and Network Chairs, and the Executive Office. Together, we will work tirelessly to enhance the experience and success of our members, drive strategic initiatives, and create new opportunities for collaboration. My goal is to ensure that the Chamber continues to serve as a vital platform for UK and Malaysian businesses to prosper, ultimately strengthening the economic ties and relationship between our two countries,” said Mak Joon Nien, Chairman of the BMCC.

Mak succeeds Mark Arthun, former Managing Director and Site Leader of Smith+Nephew Operations Malaysia Sdn Bhd, due to his relocation to the United States for his promotion to Vice President and Global Business Process Owner at Smith+Nephew.

The AGM also saw the appointment of a new Co-Deputy Chairman, Dato’ Omar Siddiq, CEO of HSBC Bank Malaysia. He will serve alongside Nik Tasha Nik Kamaruddin, Chief Brand Strategy Officer of Sunway Group who is serving as Co-Deputy Chair for the second term. The BMCC’s full list of Board Members can be found here.

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