On 28 November 2025, our Regional Head for Southeast Asia, Mr. Yusuke Ojima, had the honor of delivering an exclusive seminar for a group of over 15 mid-sized Japanese companies at the International Youth Centre Malaysia. The session, held as part of an economic study tour for mid-sized companies from Japan’s Kyushu region, who visited Kuala Lumpur to gain real insight into business expansion opportunities in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.
Representing Nihon M&A Center, Mr. Yusuke introduced how mergers and acquisitions (M&A) can serve as a strategic and effective gateway for Japanese mid-sized companies looking to enter and grow in this fast-developing region.
It was an insightful session where many of the participating company owners, most of whom are already considering overseas expansion, shared their questions and interests about Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia. Mr. Yusuke then walked them through the fundamentals of the Southeast Asian market, highlighting why Malaysia is attracting increasing interest from Japanese mid-sized companies and how M&A supports sustainable and strategic cross-border growth.
Throughout the seminar, participants gained insights into:
- Current trends driving Japanese interest in Southeast Asia
- Why Malaysia, in particular, is seen as a strong entry point into the ASEAN region
- What are the available business pathways for expansion and market entry
- How M&A can help companies enter new markets quickly, build stronger capability, and establish long-term growth
The group’s response to the session showed a clear and growing interest in Malaysia and the wider Southeast Asia region, especially in considering M&A as a strategic, effective pathway for overseas growth.
At Nihon M&A Center, our strength is that we work with businesses of all sizes – from large and listed companies to small and mid-sized enterprises – to help them identify and pursue business growth opportunities through M&A. A core part of our mission is to assist business owners, especially SMEs, in navigating succession smoothly, safeguarding business continuity, and unlocking new avenues for a sustainable future for their business.
At the same time, we are also committed to support strategic Japanese investors, particularly mid-sized companies, who are ready to take their next step into Southeast Asia. By connecting them with local businesses that share similar values and long-term ambitions, we not only strengthen their overseas growth but also broaden our buyer network. This creates even more opportunities for SME owners across Malaysia and the region to find the right partner who truly understands their vision.
“Every time I speak with business owners, both in Japan and Southeast Asia, I am reminded of how much potential can be explored when the right partners come together. We, at Nihon M&A Center, hope to continue building these meaningful bridges and creating opportunities that help both sides grow sustainably,” shared by Mr. Yusuke as he reflected on the seminar.
This dual commitment in supporting SME succession while empowering Japanese mid-sized companies to expand strategically into Southeast Asia allows us to continue act as a trusted, strategic bridge between Japan and Southeast Asia, encouraging meaningful partnerships and creating lasting value for both sides.
Ready to expand overseas? Contact us now to discover how M&A can help drive your business growth effectively and sustainably.