By Mr. Muhammad Raja Talib bin Dato’ Raja Mohamad Abdullah, CEO, OIC International Business Centre & OIC Today

In a world where business performance is increasingly judged by its broader impact, the OIC International Business Centre stands as a platform where trade, ethics, and collaboration converge. Rooted in Malaysia and open to the world, it connects economies while promoting values that endure. Mr. Muhammad Raja Talib writes.

 In today’s increasingly interconnected global economy, the expectations placed on businesses have evolved. Companies are no longer assessed solely on financial success; they are measured by their ability to contribute to wider social progress, their ethical standards, and their long-term impact. In this context, the OIC International Business Centre (OICIBC) has consistently sought to meet these expectations by serving as a platform where business and values move forward together.

Established in 2003 in Malaysia, the OIC International Business Centre was founded on the belief that economic cooperation among Muslim-majority countries could be strengthened through meaningful platforms of dialogue and exchange. Our aim was never to limit our focus to a specific geography or demography but rather to use Malaysia’s unique position as a progressive, multicultural, and economically resilient country to connect OIC nations and the broader global community.

Over the past two decades, OICIBC has become a trusted facilitator of intra-OIC trade and a convener of ideas. Our activities, which centre around publications and trade events, have served as gateways to collaboration, investment, and knowledge sharing. These pillars have been crucial in helping to establish long-term partnerships and in amplifying the presence of Muslim entrepreneurs and businesses on the global stage.

At the core of our publishing arm is OIC Today, an international business and investment magazine launched during the Tenth Islamic Summit Conference in 2003. From the outset, the magazine positioned itself as more than just a source of information. It became a reliable platform for thought leadership, featuring exclusive interviews, sector analyses, investment reports, and perspectives from across OIC countries. Over the years, OIC Today has earned the respect of government officials, diplomats, corporate leaders, and academics alike. It is also read widely by university students and young professionals, staying true to its motto: “Readers of Today, Leaders of Tomorrow.”

But information alone is not enough to build trust or foster growth. To turn ideas into action, stakeholders must engage face-to-face. This is why we developed the Muslim World Business and Investment Zone (MWBIZ), an annual exhibition and conference held in Kuala Lumpur. The event has grown into one of the leading business forums in the Muslim world. With the participation of over 30 countries, hundreds of exhibitors, and thousands of trade visitors, the MWBIZ is a vibrant marketplace where business opportunities meet real-world outcomes.

MWBIZ is not restricted to Muslim-majority nations; it welcomes participation from all parts of the world. Businesses and investors from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and beyond gather to explore new ventures, share insights, and build sustainable relationships. We have seen strategic collaborations form across sectors—from finance and education to agriculture and technology—driven by mutual respect and shared interests.

One of the more meaningful initiatives we proudly host during MWBIZ is the Jewels of the Muslim World award. This honour is conferred annually on individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their industries and communities. Among the recipients have been figures such as Muhammad Ali, Prince AlWaleed bin Talal, and Mufti Ismail Menk, as well as outstanding business and academic leaders from across the globe. The award celebrates not only success but also service and the responsible use of influence—values we strongly uphold.

Our focus on values is not incidental. In business, as in life, principles matter. As a second-generation leader, I have witnessed this first-hand. My late father, Dato’ Dr. Raja Mohamad Abdullah, founded this institution with the dream of seeing OIC nations prosper economically while remaining grounded in ethics and solidarity. I am honoured to continue this vision, and I believe that meaningful growth must be inclusive, sustainable, and human-centered.

OICIBC has always looked to Malaysia for inspiration and support. The country’s ability to harmonise diversity, promote inclusive development, and maintain economic stability makes it an ideal base for international operations. Under the leadership of YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Malaysia has renewed its focus on equitable growth, global cooperation, and institutional transparency. We welcome and commend this vision, which provides fertile ground for initiatives like ours to thrive and expand.

The current government’s policies that encourage innovation, cross-border investment, and public-private partnerships have been instrumental in enabling our outreach. We acknowledge with appreciation the strategic backing we have received from various Malaysian ministries, regulatory bodies, and trade agencies. Their encouragement has given us the confidence to grow beyond our initial scope, connecting not just businesses but also people, institutions, and ideas.

Beyond trade events and publications, OICIBC runs a number of directories that serve as practical tools for economic development. These include the OIC Trade Directory, the Malaysia Muslim Trade Directory, the OIC Tourism Directory, and the OIC Education Directory. These publications are more than reference materials; they are enablers of connection and facilitators of visibility for companies and institutions that seek growth beyond borders.

Our commitment to inclusive development also extends to youth and women. We have launched platforms that provide recognition to women leaders through the Muslim World Rania Award and continue to engage young professionals in our conferences and forums. It is essential that we equip the next generation with opportunities, mentorship, and access to networks that can accelerate their contributions to society.

None of our work would be possible without the dedication of our team and the trust of our partners. From public institutions to private corporations, from universities to start-ups, the ecosystem that supports OICIBC is diverse and robust. We remain committed to nurturing these relationships and building new ones in the spirit of cooperation and shared benefit.

Looking ahead, we aim to deepen our engagement with sectors such as digital trade, green technology, and Islamic finance. These are not only emerging areas of interest but also represent the convergence of innovation and values that define the future of responsible enterprise. We also intend to increase our collaboration with international organisations that share our goals, irrespective of cultural or religious backgrounds.

The world needs more platforms that enable constructive dialogue, encourage fair trade, and reward integrity. At OICIBC, we will continue to uphold these principles while adapting to new challenges and seizing new opportunities. We believe that values are not a constraint on business—they are its strongest foundation. As we move forward, we invite more stakeholders to join us in creating a more connected, inclusive, and accountable economic future. Whether you are an entrepreneur, policymaker, investor, or academic, your contribution matters. We specially urge the Government of Malaysia to continue their valuable support. Together, we can build not just stronger economies, but a world where business uplifts people, and values shape progress