Imagine working for the same ministry for nearly three decades and still walking in every day with the same sense of purpose.
That’s the story of Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary General for Investment and Management at MITI (Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry), who’s spent the last 30 years helping shape Malaysia’s economic path, especially for women.
The Heartbeat of MITI
A typical day for Datuk Bahria isn’t your average 9-to-6.
Wednesdays are her anchor: starting with management meetings to align internal goals, followed by post-cabinet briefings led by the minister to decode the week’s national priorities.
“It’s where we iron out everything,” she said, ensuring every department stays on the same page, even as major world events, like recent U.S. political announcements, demand rapid responses.
But don’t be fooled by the rigid-sounding routine.
At its core, her work is about opening doors, especially for entrepreneurs ready to scale.
Women Going Global
While foreign investment might be the headliner, domestic growth is the soul of MITI’s strategy.
Under the Industry Masterplan 2030, Datuk Bahria and her team are focused on uplifting all entrepreneurs, especially women.
One standout initiative is the ASEAN Women Entrepreneurs Network, which ensures female voices are part of every regional conversation.
And then there’s MATRADE, a lifeline for women-led businesses looking to go global.
“There’s a special programme for lady exporters,” she shared. “You can come in, get advice, and be connected to the right networks overseas.”
The Moment That Changed Everything
Of all her years in service, one memory stands out: COVID-19.
“The pandemic brought every ministry together like never before,” she said.
In an unprecedented move, MITI formed a task force that operated 24/7 to keep both public health and the economy in balance.
“Three of us Deputy Secretary Generals worked around the clock in shifts. No special treatment, everyone pulled their weight.
It showed the world that in Malaysia, women and men are equals in leadership.”
Lessons from Japan
Before taking her current post, Datuk Bahria studied in Japan, first learning the language, then pursuing her master’s at Waseda University, and finally serving as Malaysia’s Minister Counsellor for Economic Affairs.
“Japan taught me the value of structure and innovation,” she said.
“But as Malaysians, we also bring flexibility to the table. Combine that with innovation, and you’re unstoppable.”
Her Advice to the Next Generation
“Educate yourself. Financial literacy is key, you can’t run a business without understanding profit and loss.
Know the market, find your niche, and use the systems we’ve built to support you.”
She points aspiring entrepreneurs toward key platforms like MIHAS, and MATRADE, where they can build networks, gain exposure, and access critical resources.
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