PUTRAJAYA, March 13 (Bernama) -- A delegation from Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia (BIM) paid a courtesy visit to the Ministry of National Unity (Kementerian Perpaduan Negara) to explore collaboration opportunities in national development and social cohesion through professional bodies.

The delegation, led by Prof. ChM. Dr. Juan Joon Ching, President of BIM, was received by the Minister of National Unity, YB Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, at the Ministry in Putrajaya.

Discussions focused on enhancing engagement between the Government and professional bodies to support national unity, social cohesion and inclusive nation-building. BIM highlighted the significant role of professional bodies in contributing expertise and leadership. Representing 23 professional member institutions with over 120,000 members, BIM unites diverse professions to contribute meaningfully to the nation.

“Professional bodies represent a wide network of expertise and leadership across the country. BIM believes that closer collaboration between the Government and the professional community can play a meaningful role in strengthening social cohesion and supporting national development,” said Prof. Juan.

The meeting also introduced PROFEX 2026, themed “Uniting Professions, Transforming Malaysia’s Future”, which will bring together around 300 participants from professional bodies, government agencies, NGOs, academia, the technology ecosystem, and youth leaders.

A key highlight is the PROFEX Multi-Professional Declaration, a written commitment by all 23 professional bodies endorsing unity, inclusivity, and cross-sector collaboration. The programme also includes a Youth Forum and Townhall Dialogue for students and young professionals to engage in meaningful intercultural discussions. PROFEX is designed for long-term impact, with at least five follow-up collaborative initiatives planned over 12 months to sustain contributions to the national unity agenda.

“PROFEX 2026 – Uniting Professions, Transforming Malaysia’s Future – will bring together professionals, young talents and the wider community to collaborate, learn and contribute towards a cohesive and inclusive society. We are grateful that the Ministry of National Unity is keen to support this event, reinforcing the role of professional engagement in promoting social cohesion and nation-building,” Prof. Juan added.

Both parties expressed appreciation for the discussion and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening engagement between the Ministry and professional bodies to advance Malaysia’s national unity agenda.

About Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia (BIM):
Established in 1973, BIM is a non-political, non-religious, and non-profit national umbrella body representing professionals and professional institutions in Malaysia. BIM is committed to promoting professionalism, ethics, capacity building, and national development through inter-professional collaboration and policy advocacy. 

SOURCE: Balai Ikhtisas Malaysia (BIM)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Lisa Chong
Tel: +6012 672 3898
Email: lisa.chong@bim.org.my

--BERNAMA