KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is primed for prominence on the private equity (PE) stage in Asean which is expected to reach US$70 billion in deal value by 2024.
Ekuiti Nasional Bhd (Ekuinas) chairman Raja Tan Sri Arshad Raja Tun Uda said while the asset class continues to develop locally, there is no shortage of opportunities on the horizon, prompting investors and other players to up their allocations into PE as part of their diversification strategy.
“We are indeed fortunate to be in the exciting region of growth that is paving the way for our markets to mature and thus, increase the appetite for expansion, mergers and acquisitions,” he said in his welcome address at the Malaysian Private Equity Forum 2019 here yesterday.
Raja Arshad said the prospect of investing in the next world-class companies, and rapid growth taking place across various sectors and countries in the region is promising.
“This promises abundant investment opportunities in Asean, creating the impetus for vibrant PE activities in this region,” he said.
Nevertheless, he said investors need to understand the challenges of regional complexities and cross-border expansions.
On Ekuinas’ role, he said its focus remained to play an active role in providing Malaysia’s businesses and entrepreneurs with the building blocks to accelerate their plans and growth whilst contributing to Malaysia’s wider economic development.
“As we look forward to future endeavours, we are mindful of our importance in playing a key role in nurturing the growth of companies, industries and the nation,” he said.
He said apart from being commercially driven, Ekuinas is a unique private equity firm that contributes to the society though its social objectives.
“Over the years, the returns we made have helped us realise our corporate social responsibility vision that reflects our core business agenda and create sustainable and positive impact to businesses and society,” he said. – Bernama
