Dear MDBC members,

MDBC and member, Viewfinder Global Affairs, brings you a closed – door roundtable titled, When the Dragon Roars: Hard Lessons for Western Brands.

Viewfinder Global Affairs specializes in guiding organizations through complex geopolitical landscapes and resolving domestic political challenges.

Western brands are under unprecedented pressure as recent geopolitical flashpoints have influenced consumers to look at alternatives. At the same time, Chinese brands have made strides in building their international reputation by becoming more credible, reliable and innovative. Across Southeast Asia, many Chinese brands are threatening traditional Western market dominance across many sectors.

Yet this is not the end of the world for Western brands. Time and again, they have proven to be resilient and versatile, addressing the challenges thrown up across eras.

But to remain credible in the eyes of increasingly sensitive (and politicized) consumers, businesses need to act fast and adapt their approach to advocacy and engagement. Not acting decisively could mean losing entire generations of customers and ceding global leadership to competitors who are ready to seize this moment.

To help brands navigate these challenges, MDBC and Viewfinder Global Affairs invite you to a closed – door roundtable exploring how Western companies can adapt their advocacy strategies to remain credible and competitive in a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape.

Date:  Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Time: 09:30 – 11:30 hrs
Venue:  Servecorp, Level 33, Ilham Tower, No 8 Jalan Binjai, 50450 Kuala Lumpur
Fee:  Free for MDBC members.
Chatham House Rule applies.

Seats are limited, so please register below to secure your place. If you are not a member but would like to attend, kindly e – mail for more information.

Speakers:

David Black (Founder & CEO, BlackBox Research)David is the Founder and CEO of BlackBox Research, Southeast Asia’s leading decision intelligence advisory company. Based in Singapore, David has provided opinion polling and communications advice to governments, regulators, major companies and NGOs over the last 25 years. He recently completed research on the rising popularity of Chinese brands across SE Asia and how they have achieved success.

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Adib Zalkapli (Managing Director, Viewfinder Global Affairs)Adib is Managing Director of Viewfinder Global Affairs, a geopolitical and policy advisory firm. Over the last decade he has supported leading Western businesses in running public policy advocacy campaign across Asia.

REGISTRATION

Due to the overwhelming response, registration for this event is now closed.