Charting a Positive Path Through Evolving Tariffs

Hong Leong Bank's forum on US tariffs convened key industry experts to provide guidance for businesses and entrepreneurs on navigating challenges and leveraging opportunities.

Kevin Lam [center], with panel speakers and representatives from HLB, HLIB, MITI, SAMENTA, and PwC at HLB’s panel discussion on the US tariffs

KUALA LUMPUR, 8 MAY 2025 – Hong Leong Bank (“HLB” or “the Bank”) today hosted a timely forum, "Beyond the Headlines on US Tariffs: What’s Next for Malaysian Businesses and the Global Economy," addressing the evolving global trade dynamics, particularly US tariffs, for Malaysian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) and the broader global economy.

The event underscored HLB’s commitment to empowering Malaysian businesses in the face of these challenges. In his welcome speech, HLB’s Group Managing Director and CEO Kevin Lam highlighted that while the new global trade order presents challenges, it also unveils opportunities for businesses prepared to embrace change and strategically reposition themselves.

He noted that the initial uncertainty following the "new trade world order" that began on 2nd April 2025 was quickly followed by dynamism and adaptability of Malaysian entrepreneurs in actively seeking new avenues and innovative solutions. 

"During periods of such challenges, decisive leadership and strategic foresight become indispensable for fostering resilience and entrepreneurial responses to potentially significant shifts in the global environment. SMEs are more than just a sector within our economy; they represent a vibrant ecosystem of innovation, job creation, and sustained growth. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility to proactively equip them with the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to navigate these complexities."

"The Bank understands that navigating this complexity requires more than just financial products; it necessitates a holistic partnership. We are committed to empowering our clients through a multi-faceted approach that combines sophisticated financial tools with proactive knowledge dissemination. This involves delivering timely and incisive market intelligence via webinars and podcasts, facilitating peer-to-peer learning and strategic dialogue in forums like this, and engaging in highly consultative client relationships to craft bespoke solutions aligned with their evolving needs and risk profiles.”

The forum aimed to move beyond immediate headlines and foster a nuanced discussion on the path forward. A distinguished panel of experts shared their deep insights into the evolving trade landscape, illuminating potential challenges and providing actionable strategies and solutions for SMEs to not only withstand pressures but emerge stronger and more competitive globally. The panel included Hor Kwok Wai, Managing Director, Global Markets, HLB; Eugene Tan, Chairman of International Trade, SAMENTA; Felicia Ling, Chief Economist, Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB); Chandrasegaran Perumal, Director, PwC; and Raveendran Nair, Deputy Secretary General, Bilateral Economic & Trade Relations, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).

The forum also highlighted the availability of government support in assisting SMEs. The proactive support announced on Monday by the Prime Minister, such as the increased Government Guarantees under the Business Financing Guarantee Scheme (SJPP) and enhanced soft loan facilities through Development Finance Institutions, demonstrates a clear commitment to assisting affected SME exporters.

"This collective approach, where the government, financial institutions, and industry associations work in concert, is crucial in providing comprehensive support. Our commitment is unwavering. We stand ready to provide the essential guidance and tailored financial tools that will empower our clients to thrive in this evolving environment,” added Lam.