a day ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
More than a trade fair: Taiwan Expo strengthens Malaysia's innovation agenda
THE buzz may have died down at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, but the impact of the recently concluded Taiwan Expo 2025 continues to reverberate strongly across industries and conversations.
Making its largest showing yet in Malaysia, the three-day event from June 23 to 25 wasn't just a showcase of Taiwan's technological prowess, it was a vibrant, forward-looking celebration of innovation, partnership and cultural exchange.
At the heart of this 8th edition was one undeniable force: artificial intelligence. From AI-powered lung cancer screening and smart cybersecurity systems to responsive mechanical skin and autonomous guided tour robots, Taiwan brought cutting-edge breakthroughs to the Malaysian stage.
A total of 32 leading AI companies took part, offering real-life applications that sparked the imagination of industry insiders and curious visitors alike. Highlights included Phison's next-gen AI storage solutions, Touché Solutions' tactile tech and DeepXray's medical imaging breakthroughs.
Even education and finance sectors were not left out — ThinkCloud and NUWA Robotics presented AI-driven tools that could redefine learning and digital security.
"This is more than just an expo. It is a gateway into the future. Taiwan's innovation ecosystem is thriving, and we are proud to share it with our Malaysian partners," said Simon Wang, president & chief executive officer of TAITRA, during the opening ceremony.
A TASTE OF TAIWAN'S SOUL
But it wasn't all circuits and algorithms. The newly introduced Taiwan Select Food Culture Pavilion offered a delectable journey into Taiwan's rich food heritage, pairing award-winning halal-certified snacks and clean-label products with the delicate ritual of a traditional tea ceremony. The sensory appeal of Taiwan's soft power was on full display — from smart lifestyle gadgets to culturally rich artisanal products.
The diversity of exhibits reflected Taiwan's wide-ranging strengths: sustainability solutions like smart water towers and energy-saving tech stood alongside beautifully crafted home innovations, showing how thoughtful design and technology can transform everyday living.
The Taiwan Expo wasn't just about displaying innovation; it was about building bridges. Supported by 26 Malaysian industry associations, the event underscored Taiwan's position as a valuable trading partner.
With bilateral trade reaching USD 39.1 billion in 2024 and showing a 36.8 per cent growth in early 2025, the synergy between Malaysia's manufacturing might and Taiwan's tech expertise was undeniable.
"Malaysia and Taiwan are natural partners. Our industries complement each other, and events like this foster the kind of collaborations that drive economic progress," said Ng Sze Han, Selangor State EXCO for Investment, Trade and Mobility.
Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM) president Tan Sri Soh Thian Lai also praised the expo's timely relevance, saying: "What we are seeing here aligns with Malaysia's future direction — smart manufacturing, AI, green tech — it's all in sync with our industrial ambitions."
HEARTWARMING HIGH-FIVE
The crowd erupted in cheers on the final day as Taiwan Excellence's lovable mascot, FuBear, made history, setting a new Malaysia Book of Records with an astonishing 186 high-fives in just one minute, as proudly announced by Techtrans Taiwan.
More than just a gimmick, the effort was a touching collaboration with First City University College, REACH Segamat (a centre for children with autism), and PSJKM, proving that even a tech-heavy event can carry emotional warmth and community spirit.
THE LEGACY LIVES ON
Though the booths have been packed away and the crowds dispersed, the Taiwan Expo 2025 has left an indelible mark. It wasn't just an exhibition — it was a statement: of shared futures, mutual respect, and a commitment to innovation that enhances life on every level.
Malaysia may have said goodbye to the expo — for now — but the connections made, technologies introduced and friendships formed are already paving the way for what's next.
