Kuala Lumpur, 03 December 2025 - Cooperation between Malaysia and Belgium in maritime, logistics and sustainable industrial development reached an important milestone as King Philippe, King of the Belgians, conferred the honorary title “Officer in the Order of the Crown” to Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak, Chief Executive of Perbadanan Kemajuan Negeri Perak (PKNPk), recognising his contribution to the collaboration with Port of Antwerp–Bruges International (PoABI) on the development of the Lumut Maritime Industrial City (LuMIC).

The award, presented by His Excellency Mr. Peter Van Acker, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to Malaysia, underscores the growing confidence and shared commitment in advancing a future-focused and resilient economic partnership between both nations.

“This honour symbolises the strong and expanding bonds of cooperation between Malaysia and Belgium – anchored in mutual respect, shared knowledge and a long-term vision for sustainable progress,” said Datuk Redza.

He expressed appreciation to Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Seri Paduka Baginda Yang di-Pertuan Agong XVII Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar, Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Sultan Perak Darul Ridzuan Sultan Nazrin Muizzuddin Shah, Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, and YAB Dato’ Seri Saarani Mohamad, Menteri Besar Perak, for their support of PKNPk’s development efforts under the LuMIC initiative.

“The State Government is fully committed to building a strong and inclusive economy as part of the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda. We are determined to position Perak as a leader among progressive states. The initiatives we are implementing today will firmly establish the foundation for the prosperity of future generations. It is resolutely dedicated to establishing a resilient and inclusive economy, positioning Perak as a leader among progressive states. We are humbled by the trust placed in PKNPk. Our focus remains clear — to deliver impact responsibly, open new avenues for economic participation and create meaningful opportunities for the people of Perak and for Malaysia,” he added.

“It is our hope that the LuMIC initiative will stand not only as an economic catalyst but as a lasting symbol of Malaysia–Belgium friendship, enabling innovation, knowledge transfer and shared progress for many years to come.”

Also in attendance were Mdm Astrid Belliot, spouse of H.E. Peter Van Acker, Mr. Philippe Droesbeke, Director of Port of Antwerp–Bruges International (PoABI); Mr. Alexander Staring, Chief Business Development Officer of LuMIC DevCo and spouse Mdm Elisabeth Van Den Heuvel, along with senior officers from the Embassy of Belgium.

The Malaysia–Belgium collaboration through LuMIC continues to deepen bilateral ties, catalysing cooperation in investment, maritime expertise, research, technology and talent development as both countries work towards a more sustainable industrial ecosystem.