New to Malaysia, or just need to get out more? Getting involved in a business group or an association is a great way to meet people. To get the ball rolling, we’ve outlined a few organisations, networking groups, chambers of commerce and other expat associations in Malaysia – in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Johor. They can all be helpful if you want to expand your social or business network, learn a new hobby or just have some fun! Do some investigating and we’re sure you’ll find something that fits your interests.
Kuala Lumpur
# Expat Associations
International Women’s Association of Kuala Lumpur
IWAKL was founded in 1989 as a non-profit, non-denominational organisation. Members of the association have always been drawn from a large number of countries with a wide range of different cultures and beliefs. The aim of IWAKL is to promote social and cultural interaction and better understanding between members of the international community and Malaysians strengthening ties of friendship and respect.
Malaysian Australian New Zealand Association
MANZA was formed in 1950 to serve as a social network for Australians and New Zealanders living in Malaysia. Its aims are to provide information and support to members, organise social and sporting activities, and raise money for local charities. Membership is open to people of all nationalities.
Selangor St. Andrew’s Society
The Society aims to foster matters of Scottish interest, the celebration of St. Andrew’s Day and the organisation of social events for members. In addition to its traditional annual events – The Burns’ Supper and the St. Andrew’s Day Celebration – it also organises the Kuala Lumpur Highland Games, golf days and whisky tastings. The Society also jointly presents the annual Great British Ball.
St Patrick’s Society
The society was founded in June 1925 primarily to coordinate St Patrick’s Day celebrations. The purpose has developed significantly since. Today, the society is determined to bring unity among the Irish community and those connected to Ireland in Malaysia.
They host various social and cultural activities on an annual basis as a tribute to Irish heritage as well as deepening community links.
The Association of British Women in Malaysia
This association offers extensive volunteering and fundraising opportunities. It also hosts black-tie balls and fancy dress discos, along with charity lunches, craft workshops, sports clubs, reading groups and more.
American Association of Malaysia
This non-profit organisation is comprised of Americans and non-Americans living in and around Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Their goal is to serve as a social support network for their members and to give back to the local community through numerous social, educational and cultural events. The American Association of Malaysia also organises charitable events, drives and volunteering activities.
Latin Women’s Association of Malaysia
The Latin Women’s Association is a place for Spanish-speaking expats in Malaysia. It organises and promotes various activities to preserve the Latin languages, dances, food, customs and traditions. It also runs various charitable activities that help with economic welfare and poverty.
Ireland Malaysia Association
The Ireland Malaysia Association was established in May 2011. Membership of the IMA offers networking opportunities to make contacts, enhance knowledge and share experiences. It’s open to private enterprise, public and semi-state organisations, individual professionals and students.
Malaysian Danish Association
Set up in 2001, the Malaysian Danish Association has organised many social events in its time. The group prides itself on being a non-governmental, non-political, non-profit, non-religious, non-racial, and non-trade union organisation with the main objective of bringing together all Danes, Malaysians and their families through educational, social, cultural and economic activities.
The German Speaking Society Kuala Lumpur
The German Speaking Society offers a variety of regular meetings in forms of coffee mornings, sundowners, hiking and playgroups for little ones. It also produces the only German-language magazine in Malaysia, the KL-POST, which is published every two months and features articles about life in Malaysia, lifestyle, traditional festivals, upcoming events and reviews.
# International Chambers of Commerce
British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce
Established in 1963, the British Malaysian Chamber has been driven by the sole purpose of fostering relations between the UK and Malaysia. Over the past six decades, the BMCC has provided businesses with networking platforms, international trade services and industry advocacy.
American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce
AMCHAM was founded in 1978 as an international, non-profit, private-sector business association. It comprises more than 1,600 members, representing American, Malaysian and other international companies.
The Japanese Chamber of Commerce And Industry
The Japanese Chamber was established with the objective of promoting the economic development of Japan and Malaysia through trade, commerce, industry and investment activities, while advocating for the interest of Japanese companies here.
Swedish Chamber of Commerce Malaysia
This non-profit organisation was established in 1986 to promote trade, finance and industry between Malaysia and Sweden. The aim is to support business interests of members by facilitating commercial and social networking in the form of business briefings, seminars, company visits and social events. Membership is open to all Swedish expats in Malaysia, including spouses, students and also visiting academics.
Malaysian German Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Set up in 1991, the Malaysian German Chamber of Commerce and Industry aims to be the voice of German industry in Malaysia. It’s open for individual and corporate memberships.
Penang
Malaysian German Society of Penang
Founded in 1962, the Malaysian German Society of Penang started off as a friendship society and a language centre in Penang. Now, it conducts cultural activities such as exhibitions, movie nights and talks. In addition, it holds social events for members and guests throughout the year, including Oktoberfest celebrations that draw huge crowds from Penang and elsewhere.
Johor
American Malaysian Chamber of Commerce Johor Network
The AMCHAM Johor Network (AJN), established in 2020, is a committee composed of Johor-based member companies. Members meet up regularly and collectively voice key issues related to doing business in Malaysia, and specifically in Johor. AJN also serves as a platform for the Chamber to engage with the various companies and government agencies in Johor.
Other associations and groups to join and useful contacts in Malaysia
Sports Teams & Social Clubs
Joining a sports team or social club is a great way to meet people while having fun and stay active. From casual running groups to competitive games, Malaysia offers a variety of options to suit different interests.
- The Royal Lake Club, KL
- The Penang Club
- Pickle Social Club
- Kuala Lumpur Hash House Harriettes
- Bharat Club Kuala Lumpur
Books
This group organise book readings and social gatherings for the book lovers in Kuala Lumpur.
University Alumni Networks
A great way to meet like-minded people is by connecting with fellow alumni from your university. Many universities have active alumni groups in Malaysia, providing networking opportunities and also social events. Check your university’s website to see if they have a Malaysia-based chapter. Here are two, just by way of example:
Local Events
Malaysia offers an exciting line up of events year-round. Stay updated through these websites:
Want to add an association or contact to the list? Email us at anjalika@expatliving.sg!
If you enjoyed this article on chambers and associations in Malaysia, read on to discover other things to do in Kuala Lumpur, Penang and elsewhere!
