NORTH-EAST business leaders will host a high-powered delegation from the Far East next month.

The group from Malaysia will tour the region to learn about the North-East and forge links with England.

During the four-day stay, they will tour the North-East Technology Park (NetPark) in Sedgefield, the East Durham Business Service one-stop shop for business advice and support, the University of Northumbria, the University of Newcastle and the New and Renewable Energy Centre at Blyth, Northumberland.

Delegates will also visit the headquarters of Renew Tees Valley and the North-East Process Industries Cluster.

A Malaysian business forum will be held at Sunderland's Stadium of Light on Wednesday, September 21, where local companies can find out more about investing in Malaysia.

The visit will culminate with a Malaysian evening hosted by the High Commission and Tourism Malaysia, where 100 guests will enjoy Malaysian food and culture.