KUALA LUMPUR (Mar 4): The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (Miti) has urged Malaysian furniture makers to adopt new technology to produce more diverse and higher value-added products in the quest to stay competitive. Its Deputy Secretary-General (Trade) Mohd Ridzal Sheriff says Malaysia, currently the world's eighth largest furniture exporter, has seen its products successfully penetrate global hotel chains, international convention centres and world-class hospitals. "Malaysian furniture has become more visible to a wider group of users and the global acceptance is testimony to the quality of our furniture products," he added. Mohd Ridzal represented Miti minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed in delivering the opening speech at the Malaysian International Furniture Fair (MIFF) here today. He cautioned Malaysian companies against resting on their laurels, and instead, adopt newer technologies in production and move up the value chain from original equipment manufacturers to original brand or design manufacturers. "Trade associations and industry players should join hands in building and marketing their own designs and brands. "Original brand and design manufacturing business models have been, and will continue to be a key source of revenue for many companies in the industry," he said. Malaysian furniture exports stood at RM7.4 billion in 2013, with the United States being the largest buyer. As much as 28.5 per cent of local furniture last year was exported to the US, followed by Japan at 9.1 per cent, according to the ministry's data. Other key markets include Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom. The five-day MIFF, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, isbeing held from March 4-8 at the Putra World Trade Centre and the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre here. The fair houses more than 500 international and local exhibitors, and is expected to attract about 20,000 trade visitors and buyers.