APU selected for “Program Akar” digital skills training initiative

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  • The plan aims to provide electronic skills to the Malaysian economic sector.
  • As part of the aircraft cohort, fifty students were chosen to improve the system for the next participants.

Professor Dr Ho Chin Kuan, vice-chancellor of APU (2nd from the right) and APU’s students joined the VIPs at the launching ceremony of ‘Program Akar’. From Left to Right: V Rathakrishnan, managing director, WEPS, Jun Maria Tan Abdullah, senior director, PayNet Peter Murray, country general manager, AWS Farhan Ahmad, group CEO, PayNet, Prof Ho Chin Kuan, vice chancellor, APU and Mughilen Rathakrishnan, CEO, WEPS

Payments Network Malaysia ( PayNet ) has launched” Program Akar”, an initiative aimed at addressing Malaysia’s urgent need for digitally skilled workers. The first and only university chosen to participate in this 47-day training program, which will begin in July 2024 and will end in November, is Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation ( APU).

In a statement, APU announced that the university’s fifty technology and IT students had been chosen as the captain group to gather ideas and develop the program for the program’s potential members. This initiative, which is powered by AWS re/Start, provides cohort-based workforce development training that is free and aimed at promoting electric skills to participants. The goal is to train people for professions in the sky and link them with potential employers.

By empowering Malaysia’s next-generation skill with important electronic skills,” Program Akar” aims to revolutionize the financial services sector. Over the next five years, according to recent research from Gallup and AWS, 78 % of Malay employers will seek online experienced staff. Almost half of the Malaysians surveyed are unable to access inexpensive online skills training, despite this. Additionally, Access Partnership and AWS’ Accelerating AI Skills study found that almost all financial services employers (99 % ) anticipate using AI in the next five years.

For this effort, AWS will provide coaching tools, sky solutions, and technical skills, while PayNet will finance the project and advocate for the inclusion of industry-relevant skills. World Education Placement Services Sdn Bhd ( WEPS) will ensure the curriculum remains up-to-date and industry-focused, delivering the programme from start to finish.

” Program Akar was initiated by PayNet together with WEPS, AWS, and the School of Technology ( SoT), School of Computing ( SoC), and the School of Accounting and Finance ( SoAF ) at APU. We are really happy that it is only available to APU kids, according to Senior Head of SoT Associate Professor Dr. Thang Ka Fei. It is the first program of its kind in Malaysia.

He explained that 50 computing and information technology students were chosen from among about 150 candidates through a rigorous school evaluation and interview process. These individuals have now been deemed qualified as possible computer experts for the economic sector.

” The trainees will go through 45 times of online learning and two days of real training for online payments.” They will then collect a three-month guarantee location with local financial institutions. The fully sponsored training package is valued at US$ 2, 700 ( RM12, 000 ) per student” ,&nbsp, Dr Thang said.

The training program, developed by AWS and PayNet, covers basic sky skills and electronic payments, including development, networking, safety, and databases. Graduates may even take the recognized AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification Exam to demonstrate their abilities.

Students will receive a Digital Payment Certificate of Completion, an AWS re/Start Graduate Certificate of Completion plus a Digital Badge, and an AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner Certificate and a Digital Badge once the teaching is over. Graduates will likewise receive assistance in acquiring jobs and work assignments in Malaysia’s financial services sector, enabling them to put their training to use in the workplace. PayNet and WEPS will join candidates with roles such as fog operations, page reliability, infrastructure support, and professional business support functions.

Currently, Bank Negara, Maybank, Public Bank, Hong Leong Bank, and Bank Islam have expressed interest in providing internship opportunities to the programme graduates.

” Our commitment to developing industry-relevant skills and creating pathways for our students to thrive in the digital economy is underpinned by our involvement in” Program Akar,” said Prof. Dr. Ho Chin Kuan, Vice-Chancellor of APU.

He added that the students are well-versed in technical knowledge and have a positive attitude toward learning. They will be supported and mentored by the university’s academicians on campus, who are dedicated to disseminating tech knowledge. We are proud to be a part of this transformative initiative, and I’m confident that these students will successfully complete their training and contribute to the finance industry with their added expertise, in addition to their bachelor’s degrees, he said.

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42 Malaysia and MyDIGITAL work to bridge tech talent gap

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  • 12, 000 security ability to reach 25, 000 employees by the end of next year
  • entry of Penang and Johor colleges this year, with the potential for Sabah and Sarawak.

(L2R standing): Matt van Leeuwen, CIO, Sunway Group; Evan Cheah, Group CEO for Digital and Strategic Investments, Sunway Group, Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital; Fabian Bigar, Sec-Gen Ministry of Digital; Jeff Sandhu, CEO 42MY. (seated L2R): Professor Elizabeth Lee, Sunway Education Group CEO; Ellina Roslan, Senior Director of MyDIGITAL.

42 Malaysia ( 42MY) and MyDIGITAL Corporation have signed a Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU) to address Malaysia’s tech talent shortage. The collaboration aims to develop modern skills, focusing on cloud technology, security, and artificial intelligence. This partnership is in line with Malaysia’s commitment to complete 12, 000 security positions and make 500, 000 new digital sector jobs by 2025, underscoring the need for effective technical knowledge and workforce development strategies.

42MY is part of the global Ecole 42 system, a French-founded programming class. This nation-building effort, supported by Sunway Education Group, Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Jeffrey Cheah Foundation, and Dana Impak, offers free system scientific knowledge to individuals over 18, regardless of background or before skillS. It operates without groups, teachers, or education costs.

The first  Malaysian campus, 42 Kuala Lumpur ( 42KL), which was founded in 2020, is housed in the FutureX building in Sunway City and is run by Sunway Education Group, Sunway iLabs, and Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ), according to a partnership between the two organizations.

Jeff Sandhu, Chief Operating Officer of 42MY, explained their unique strategy:” In less than 18 months, we can cultivate someone into an industry-ready expertise with no previous qualifications, never yet SPM”. The school aims to produce 10, 000 industry-ready alumni by 2033. Now, 150 graduates have been placed in the industry, with each college expected to produce 200 business graduates periodically at full potential.

The software industry needs to develop quickly, according to Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital Malaysia. At a press conference following the signing of the MoU at Sunway FutureX, he stated,” We have to create new components that are fast, easy to understand, and scalable so that folks can train and reskill themselves in a matter of times.”

The secretary also emphasized the immediate need for the development of digital talent. ” Digital ability is important in an age where AI is projected to affect about 40 % of jobs worldwide”, he elaborated. ” For instance, in the security field, Malaysia needs to meet at least 25, 000 employees by the end of next year. Now, there are 13, 000 staff in the field, leaving us with a lack of 12, 000 staff”.

Gobind emphasized the value of upgrading and upgrading personnel while they are employed. He emphasized the need for businesses to incorporate mentoring initiatives to ensure that their employees are prepared to transition into novel roles as traditional jobs change.

With that in mind, the government is planning to introduce tax exemptions in Budget 2025 to encourage small and medium enterprises ( SMEs ) and micro-medium enterprises ( MSMEs ) to adopt AI and other technologies. By the beginning of the month, the secretary anticipates more detailed implementation information to be made public.

” With nearly 97 % of the nation’s businesses being SMEs, it ultimately comes down to how fast we can get everyone on board”, Gobind said. ” If we can get them to embrace technology and Iot options, you will see huge growth in the country’s digital market”.

To solve these problems, the MoU between 42MY and MyDIGITAL aims to develop Malaysia’s online skills environment, especially in cloud computing, security, and AI. In light of the government’s desire to develop new tools to rapidly develop talent, classic three-year degree programs are no longer enough in the rapidly changing digital landscape.

Following the launch of the first school, 42KL, 42MY is set to open new schools in Penang and Iskandar Puteri, Johor, with ideas for potential schools in Sabah and Sarawak. The Penang school is scheduled to open in period for this year’s SPM students, giving those who may not do well in traditional scientists options.

Ellina Roslan, Senior Director of MyDIGITAL Corporation, outlined possible areas of collaboration, including” mutual research and development, cross-border skills exchange programs, creative seminars, public-private partnerships, and the presence of 42 Malaysia in MyDIGITAL’s Executive Digital Leadership Program”.

42 Malaysia and MyDIGITAL work to bridge tech talent gap

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‘I just wanted to play more golf’ says the most successful golf startup founder in Malaysia

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  • David Wong ran Deemples as a small fleet of 5 team when he raised US$ 2m&nbsp, &nbsp,
  • Moving from 12 % to 15 % of GTV, the company achieved first profitability last year.

Where most have failed, David Wong has built Demples into the most successful golf startup in Malaysia, from a funding point, having raised a total of US$2.62 million over the past eight years.

Deemples and chairman of Malay golf Deemples and creator David Wong received US$ 2 million from a Singapore-based business venture capital firm, V Ventures, in May 2024. This brought its total funding raised to US$ 2.625 million ( RM11.6 million ), making Deemples the most successful startup, from a funding point, targeting the Malaysian golf market.

This is David’s eighth month, making this the longest David has ever lived. Since the late 1990s, startup founders have been trying to break into the Indonesian golf industry from a player and golf club perspective. Few have succeeded. &nbsp,

Not a bad achievement by the 41&nbsp, year-old David, who admits,” I actually did n’t want to do it, because I just wanted to be a user, and play more golf”.

Grains wrought in 2014

Deemples seeds were planted in 2014, to be planted in 2015. Users then presently had programs to address their needs for a lot of items, like Tinder with dating, Capture with ride-hailing, FoodPanda with food and food delivery, Airbnb with hospitality. &nbsp,

Therefore, it made feeling for there to be a system where golfers could enjoy along, as David had intended.

” I was hoping that there was a Tinder for sport out there that I could use to meet and get different people to play with at particular times that were suitable for me,” he said.

But he could n’t find such a platform.

Deemples ‘ concept was born with the intention of amp;nbsp; achieving his desire to play more golf. ” My friends could n’t play whenever I wanted to play because our times did n’t match, and I did n’t know a whole lot of golfers”.

With a full-time career in Shanghai and the luxury of working with an outsourced development team to create the software in the hopes of testing the market response, he decided to jump in with both feet and took the only chance. It did not go well.

Working with a team that did n’t care about his project was a lot of work. So he gave up on this. It was 2015.

At this point, David however wanted to pursue Deemples, even though it would be simple to do so. He took the experience while,” Part-and-parcel of trying and failing”.

He was aware from the beginning that it would be challenging, particularly since he had no leader to give him a blueprint or advice. He continues to struggle with the latter.

His knowledge selling books during his student days helped him emotionally for the challenging road ahead.

” I was selling ebooks door-to-door part-time, across three state, while studying in Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business in the US. They told me it was going to be hard, and I was mentally ready”.

He adopted that mind-set and was willing to give up a bit, also go broke developing Deemples.

Things improved in 2016 when he hired a friend with a background in technology to work on the game for his first CTO. &nbsp,

The software was launched in Sept 2016, with David’s primary aim to find 1, 000 downloads in Malaysia and 500 in Singapore. ” I told myself that if this hits 1, 500 files, I had quit my job”, he said.

Little did he know, but by Jan 2017 it had reached over 3, 000 files. David left his job in June with a distinct market potential.

His confidence was further bolstered when three friends whom he pitched Deemples to in 2014 when he was based in Shanghai, invested a combined US$ 125, 000 ( RM525, 000 ) after he went full time.

A minute funding round was provided for David in April 2019, which ultimately totaled US$ 150, 000. It was announced as US$ 105, 000 but David explains that another US$ 45, 000 came in after the news. In the interim, he appointed Ahmad Daleen as CTO, replacing his second CTO who left the same year.

Trying to monetize the marketing design and user growth

David made a point of getting as many users as possible in accordance with the company ecosystem’s prevailing pre-pandemic time mantra.

” In that same year, 2017, we expanded to Manila, to Jakarta, trying to build a customer basic, but nothing really stuck”, David said.

The corresponding argument of Deemples was finally realized that neither the business model nor the user experience aspect were sufficient. After all, no a pays to record for their Grab, FoodPanda, or Boost apps, charging customers to use the matching services may turn many people out.

From the user experience, it does n’t complete the experience. &nbsp,

” After I find someone to play golf with, I would still need to book a golf program”, David explains. Which is why David focused on a transaction-based booking system for Deemples in 2019 where users give a tee off fee to Deemples, who would then reimburse the clubs. This marked the beginning of his monetization journey.

” We started testing the model at a number of programs in the Klang Valley,” he said.

When profits started coming in 2020, he immediately raised US$ 350, 000 through pitchIN’s capital fundraising program in Sept. He actually raised US$ 230, 000 but with the Malaysian government matching any funding raised through equity crowdfunding via the Malaysia Co-Investment Fund ( MyCIF ) grant initiative, he received an extra 50 % investment. &nbsp,

 

Moving from 12 % to 15 % cut of GTV &amp, doubling revenue for past 3 years

Initially from 2020, Deemples took a 12 % cut of the Gross Transaction Value ( GTV ) from tee off bookings. ” Only now, we are moving towards a 15 % cut”, he said.

The first year it activated its income type, Deemples generated RM1 million in GTV, in 2021 it was RM2 million, in 2022 it was RM4.8 million and last year it was RM9 million in GTV.

” We’ve been doubling our GTV every year for the last three years, and 2023 was the first time that we reached revenue at around RM1 million and were profitable”, David said.

” This year however, we wo n’t reach profitability because we are investing more into growing the business, growing users, increasing marketing activities, and helping golf courses achieve their revenue goals by upgrading our product”.

The team has already begun developing innovative features, underlying fundamental modifications, and design improvements that may make it simpler for both golfers and golfers to employ.
 

Running a small fleet

What is distinctive about David is how, pre-raising the US$ 2 million, he has run Deemples as a very small fleet with staff at five individuals.

” We had to concentrate on growing the business rather than creating new products, so it was only Ahmad on the digital side.” But after May of this year, we have grown the technical staff to five top designers and one UI/UX people”, said David. The current personnel is 16

The latest overall customer base is between 80, 000 to 90, 000 with 11, 000 monthly active users on the game while the web has 30, 000 monthly active users. &nbsp,

This engaged user base provides useful information for golf clubs. ” Since many of these clubs do n’t have their own CRM ( customer relationship management ), they can use us to reach a lot of golfers”, he said.

” While sportsmen is article games at all golf clubs in Malaysia, we work competitively with 80 venues, who accept payments sincere from golf via Deemples”, he added.

Hotels work together to offer package services for lodging and transportation when golfers travel from outside the state or the country.

Various brands in real estate, finance, travel, luxury, and automotive who want to engage with golfers, who are mainly middle to high income males ranging between 25 and 65 years old, also partner Deemples. &nbsp,
 

Lessons learnt

Over his eight-year journey, the key lesson David has learned is to say’ No’ to a lot of things, and focus on things that matter.

Because everyone will want you to behave in their ways, it’s clear that you wo n’t do anything well and that there are only so many hours or resources to play around with if you try to please everyone.

He has also learned to be focused, especially when resources are tight, not just on the product offering but also on the geographic focus. And even now, with resources available, thanks to the US$ 2 million funding, he says, “you can plan product and geographic expansion accordingly with a specific amount of focus”.

For the ardent golfer, who has been playing since 2009 and has a lowest ever handicap of 14 versus 19 when he launched Deemples in 2017, David says he has” no desire to improve it- because golf is a tough game and it takes a lot of effort to improve.”

Nonetheless, it is a game anyone can enjoy, despite their handicap, says the Deemples power user who has racked up around 450 tee times. ” Sadly, I am not the top power user as there are those who have racked up over 500 tee times” .&nbsp, But that’s good for business.

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Cenergi SEA Berhad: Driving sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia

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  • may be promoting sustainable solutions at future ISES.
  • Cenergi has secured a total of 65 green energyprojects, with 25 of them being new jobs.

Cenergi SEA Berhad: Driving sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia

Cenergi SEA Berhad: Driving sustainable energy solutions in Southeast AsiaCenergi SEA Berhad, a division of UEM Lestra Berhad, is a market leader in Southeast Asia for clean energy alternatives. We specialise in different renewable energy projects, including gas to electricity and bioCNG from palm oil mill waste, carbon pellets/briquettes from empty fruits number ( EFB), solar, energy reliability and small hydro jobs. Cenergi is poised to be at the vanguard of Malaysia’s clean energy environment with a total capacity of 143 MW from operating resources and initiatives in development.

The Approach and Vision of Cenergi SEA for Sustainable Energy

Cenergi’s presence at the 6th International Sustainable Energy Summit ( ISES ) 2024 aims to enhance our industry presence, foster collaborative efforts, and advance our mission of promoting sustainable energy solutions. Through communication, knowledge exchange, plan advocacy, investment exploration and CSR activities, we seek to consolidate our role as a key player in the transition towards a sustainable energy future in Southeast Asia.

The organization has secured 25 new renewable energy projects, which are already in various stages of development and pre-development. These jobs encompass a diverse collection of technology, including 16 Biogas Power Plants, 1 Big Scale Solar Farm, 1 Rooftop Solar setup, 4 Biomass Pellet/Briquette Plants, 2 Little Hydro Power Flowers, and 1 BioCNG Plant.

To complement the renewable energy business, Cenergi also participate&nbsp, in the selling and trading of renewable energy certificate ( REC ) and carbon credit. The company has been offering biogas and solar RECs, and to market technology-based carbon credits in the near future.

Innovation and Technology

Our sustainable energy projects are fueled by a variety of innovative technologies, which show how committed we are to reducing carbon emissions, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. The various systems we use are briefly summarized in the following table.

Biogas Technology:

Cenergi is the largest developer, owner and operator of biogas power plants in Malaysia. Our biogas power plant in Jerantut, Pahang, recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records, is the biggest palm oil mill effluent ( POME) grid-connected biogas power plant in the country, with a capacity of 5.5 MW. We utilise anaerobic digestion to transform agricultural waste, POME, and other organic materials into biogas, which is then used to generate electricity.

Solar Photovoltaic ( PV ) Systems:

Cenergi is actively involved in the development and deployment of solar PV systems, ranging from large-scale solar farms to rooftop installations. The company utilizes advanced PV technology, including high-efficiency solar panels and smart inverters, to maximize energy output and system reliability.

Biomass Pellet:

Cenergi converts empty fruit bunches ( EFBs ), a significant byproduct of palm oil production, into pellets and briquettes. This process maximizes biomass resource, turning waste into&nbsp, valuable products. EFF pellets and briquettes are a renewable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels because they release less greenhouse gases and pollutants than traditional fossil fuels.

BioCNG:

In Sabah, Cenergi is working on its first bioCNG project, which converts POME biogas into compressed biomethane or bioCNG. The BioCNG produced would be a direct substitute for natural gas as a fuel source because it would have similar characteristics to fossil fuel-based natural gas.

Small Hydro:

Cenergi also makes small-scale hydropower investments using the “run-of-river” idea. Small hydropower contributes significantly to the achievement of the National Energy Transition Roadmap ( NETR )’s renewable energy targets, which are crucial for long-term decarbonization scenarios.

Environmental and Social Impact

The ecosystem projects led by Cenergi have had significant effects on both the environment and the local communities. For example, the implementation of enclosed anaerobic treatment systems for biogas-to-electricity projects has effectively avoided methane emissions, mitigated odor, and improved water quality. These initiatives have also helped to boost the local economy by generating income through the sale of carbon credits and by fostering job opportunities and skill development for local communities.

Adoption Challenges and Policy Recommendations

High initial capital costs, grid integration and infrastructure challenges, regulatory and policy barriers, and technological limitations are the main obstacles that the industry faces as it strives to become more popular for renewable energy projects. To address these challenges, effective policies such as feed-in tariffs ( FiTs ), power purchase agreements ( PPAs ), and net energy metering ( NEM) have proven successful in promoting renewable energy adoption. To increase solar energy systems ‘ overall performance, lower costs, and maintain research and development in solar and battery storage technology is necessary.

Cenergi SEA Berhad remains committed to driving sustainable energy solutions in Southeast Asia through innovative technologies, strategic partnerships, and policy advocacy. By addressing the environmental, economic, and social aspects of renewable energy projects, the company aims to contribute to a cleaner and greener future for the region.

The 6th International Sustainable Energy Summit ( ISES ) 2024, a key event for sustainable energy dialogue and innovation, is set to take place on August 20-21, 2024, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC). The summit will be officiated by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Dato ‘ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who will be serving as the country’s ambassador to the Sustainable Energy Development Authority ( SEDA ) Malaysia. The event, which has the theme” Accelerating Energy Transition Through Innovation,” reflects Malaysia’s commitment to leading the ASEAN region in the global energy transition through novel approaches and technologies.

The summit will have a crucial role in supporting Malaysia’s ambitious goal of achieving a 70 % renewable energy mix in power generation by 2050, as well as achieving carbon neutrality by the same year. Attendees can expect a series of Plenary Sessions and Deep Dive Workshops led by prominent energy experts and leaders, covering topics such as green mobility, grid modernization, and the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance ( ESG) principles into investment and financing strategies. Visit ises. org. my for more information.

Cenergi SEA Berhad’s CEO is Hairol Azizi Tajudin.

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eCloudvalley appoints Sandy Woo as Malaysia country director to accelerate business growth

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  • Past led the Malay industry for Veritas Technologies
  • Appointment highlights the agency’s commitment to expand cloud adoption

eCloudvalley appoints Sandy Woo as Malaysia country director to accelerate business growth

eCloudvalley Digital Technology, a fast-growing cloud solutions provider and premier Amazon Web Services partner, has announced the appointment of Sandy Woo ( pic ) as Country Director for its Malaysia operations. This strategic shift demonstrates the firm’s commitment to accelerating the adoption of cloud technology and modern transformation in Malay businesses.

Woo, a pioneer with over twenty years of experience in the tech sector, will spearhead eCloudvalley’s effort to simplify cloud systems and make innovative solutions more available to businesses from various industries. Her appointment comes at a critical moment for Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to develop its electric economy blueprint, which aims to make it a high-income, online driven nation.

” This is a fantastic time to work for eCloudvalley, working alongside a team of skilled cloud professionals who are serving an expanding client base. Malaysia is being prepared for accelerated sky adoption and innovation, according to Woo, pointing to Amazon Web Services ‘ plans to launch a new AWS Region around.

She continued,” We are driven to assist and enable firms to fully understand the transformative potential of the sky and advanced systems like generative AI, system teaching, big data, IoT, and more. We have a focused plan and proven skills.

Due to eCloudvalley, Woo led the Malay industry for Veritas Technologies, playing a key role in expanding the company’s business footprint while embodying her aggressive nature to create data-driven results. Woo also held leadership roles with renowned technology companies, including Cisco Systems, CA Technologies, and NTT ( Dimension Data ).

” Our victory at eCloudvalley is measured by our ability to provide advanced, custom sky solutions that create real business value for our clients.” Woo’s visit shows our responsibility to creating a skilled workforce capable of meeting the requirements of Malaysia’s changing market, according to Regional Director Jonathan Que.

She makes the ideal leader for our Indonesian operations because of her thorough understanding of consumer business needs and her knowledge of changing industry trends. Woo is the right prospect not only to push eCloudvalley’s second phase of growth, but also to support our clients innovate, size, and obtain their business targets”, he added.

In Malaysia in 2020, eCloudvalley established its presence during a time of significant disruption, and it has since grown to include a total of 60 cloud professionals. The company has played a pivotal role in helping numerous enterprises, startups, and SMBs navigate the evolving business landscape.

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Successful conclusion of Endeavor’s Future Forum 2.0 – A game changer for Malaysia’s startup ecosystem 

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  • Over 3000 business rulers, investors &amp, businesses attended the conference
  • Participants gained insights into M’sia’s business habitat through key discussions

Peter Murray, Head of Financial Services Industry, ASEAN. AWS, Normal Vanhaecke, Group CEO, Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd, Adlin Yusman, Managing Director, Endeavor Malaysia, Jesse Chooi, Scaleup Development, MDEC and Hassan Alsagoff, Regional Head of Loyalty & Marketing ,Grab Malaysia

With Cradle Fund, through the MYStartup initiative, as its patron, along with support from Grab Malaysia, GXBank, Amazon Web Services ( AWS), and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ), Endeavor’s Future Forum 2.0 successfully concluded on Tuesday, 13th August 2024, at the Asia School of Business. The occasion maintained a strong participation, with over 300 business leaders, companies, and traders in attendance, matching next week’s numbers.

This consistency, according to Endeavor, demonstrates that the success of the Future Forum last year was not just a case of luck; it was a result of the organization’s continued commitment to bringing in top speakers who have a strong impact on the entrepreneurial community.

This year’s Future Forum 2.0 featured a lineup of speakers, including Endeavor Emeritus Board Member Nazir Razak ( chairman of Ikhlas Capital ), Endeavor Mentors such as Joel Neoh ( co-founder of First Move &amp, Fave ) and Tunku Alizakri Alias ( Former chairman of Penjana Kapital ), Endeavor Entrepreneurs including Aaron Patel ( founder of iHandal ) and Kian Seah ( founder of HHI), as well as Endeavor Pre-ISP candidates such as Nicholas Pinn Yang Lim ( co-founder of Good Foodie Media ), Nadira Yusoff ( co-founder of Kiddocare ), Nurul Syaheedah Jes Izman ( co-founder of Pantas ), and Mark Koh ( co-founder of SUPA ).

The list of speakers continued with Norman Vanhaecke ( group CEO of Cradle ), Fadrizul Hasani ( CTO of GXBank ), Karamjit Singh ( founder of Digital News Asia ), Peter Yong ( founder of Mr. Money TV ), Koichi Saito ( founder of KK Fund ), Sophie Chiu ( principal at AppWorks ), Warren Leow ( CEO of Pixlr Group ), Gerardo Salandra ( CEO of Respond. io ), Rene Menezes ( executive director of Remix Solutions ), Roshan Kanesan ( producer &amp, presenter at BFM), and Fahim Surani ( Solution or Systems architect at Amazon Web Services ).

The attendees, according to Endeavor, gained valuable insights into Malaysia’s business ecosystem, from understanding the Gen AI rebellion to understanding the key factors that entice foreign investors to the local landscape. Additionally, they discussed ways to incorporate ESG into firm plan and learn about the brand-new era of marketing and branding. Importantly, the event’s Legitimate Clinic, in partnership with Zaid Ibrahim &amp, Co ( in association with KPMG Law ), provided personalised legal counsel to companies, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to empowering local companies.

The consistently high attendance for Future Forum 2.0, according to Adlin Yusman, managing director of Endeavor Malaysia, confirms that our technique to developing relevant topics and engaging speakers resonates with the business community. It’s not just about a one-time victory, it’s about continually delivering value and fostering an environment where creativity flourishes”.

He continued,” The company is thrilled by this week’s success and looks forward to returning in 2025 with an even more remarkable Future Forum 3.0.” As Endeavor looks forward, we will continue to support high-impact business owners and foster a vibrant company habitat. The success of Coming Forum 2.0 shows how well on track this goal is, Adlin said.

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Antler closes USm SEA Fund II on SEA startups from day zero to growth stage

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  • Invest in tech-enabled businesses, focusing on Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia
  • Over the next few months, US$ 3 million will be earmarked to get invested in Malaysian companies.

Antler Malaysia launched its second cohort in July 2024, welcoming 68 experienced, diverse, and highly skilled founders to join the Antler Residency Program.

Antler, the global early-stage venture capital firm with offices in more than 30 cities around the world including Kuala Lumpur, announced the US$ 72 million ( RM318.3 million ) close of its second Southeast Asia fund, Antler SEA Fund II. The new account will remain investing in early-stage tech-enabled firms in Southeast Asia with pre-launch, pre-seed, and plant money.

Over the next few months, the fund targets to invest US$ 27 million ( RM119.4 million ) in 45 early-stage startups. A portion of the funding will go toward startups created as a result of the Antler Residency Programs, which were held in Southeast Asia and for which Malaysia will receive a total of US$ 3 million ( RM13.3 million ).

Start to startups with co-founders now in the early stages, as well as individuals with the knowledge and ability to be founders, the residency will give exclusive access to a community of entrepreneurs, building expertise, a worldwide network of institutional investors, and capital from day zero. The Malaysian group is expected to begin in October of this year.

The Fund has effectively made investments in a number of appealing businesses in Malaysia, including the blockchain-powered B2B procurement system MessengerCo, diagnostic solutions company Biogenes Technologies, and construction projects control system COEX.

Jussi Salovaara, co-founder and Managing Partner of Antler, said, “SEA Fund II marks the second paragraph in Antler’s vision in backing members from the earliest phases through their development. As a world multi-stage investor, we believe there has never been a better day than now to develop. The development of artificial intelligence, access to capital, and a developing South Asian market have all created a amazing atmosphere for technology and the breeding of global leaders.

Antler SEA Fund II is supported by global and regional minimal companions, with over 50 % of the portfolio composed of institutional shareholders, including a sovereign wealth fund, income bank, and college fund.

The bank’s near comes amid excellent discounts and increasing investor appetite for early-stage opportunities, driven by rapid automation, rising middle class, and strong economic growth leads across the region. Preqin data also indicates a significant increase in early-stage investments worldwide, with seed deal sizes rising by 112 % and Series A deals up 31 % on average.

To support founders from the earliest stages of building to growth stage, Antler has introduced ARC ( Agreement for Rolling Capital ), a newly launched fundraising initiative for early-stage founders to secure up to RM2.65 million, including the initial investment, pro-rata follow-on, and ARC, within the first nine months of a company’s lifecycle.

Antler may also continue to invest up to RM44.21 million of scale-up investment in growth-stage companies from Series A onwards through its emerging development bank, Antler Elevate. The RM1.26 billion fund invests worldwide in breakout firms, including within Antler’s early-stage money.

Antler’s SEA Fund I has invested in 91 companies, including e-SIM market Airalo, system for refurbished digital devices Reebelo, bright point-of-sale system provider Qashier, AI-driven economic data automation platform Bluesheets, and current expense management solution Volopay. Globally, Antler has invested in more than 1, 000 startups across a wide range of industries and technologies.

Beginning in October 2024, Antler Malaysia will begin accepting applications for its third cohort. Startups who are looking for funding or simply the best talents with the goal of creating the most influential companies of the future are encouraged to apply here.

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Maxis partners Singtel to accelerate enterprise digital transformation with Malaysia’s first 5G orchestration platform at MCY Summit 2024

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  • Program supports high-speed info needs, real-time analytics &amp, automatic systems
  • Provides users with low-latency technology, GPU as a Service, and store entry

Goh Seow Eng, CEO of Maxis (Left) & Manoj Prasanna Kumar, chief technology officer of Singtel Digital InfraCo.

Maxis has partnered with Singtel to create Malaysia’s first all-in-one system for 5G network, top technology, sky, and services automation, built on Singtel’s Paragon for telco networks. The platform does create 5G-Advanced (5G-A ) and 5G technology, edge, and multi-cloud computing more visible to Malay businesses, accelerating modern transformation across different sectors such as manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and public services.

The Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation ( MOSTI ) hosted the Malaysia Commercialization Year (MCY ) Summit 2024, a ceremony that formally established the partnership. At the Maxis booth, Goh Seow Eng, CEO of Maxis, and Manoj Prasanna Kumar, CTO of Singtel Digital InfraCo, signed a Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU).

Made available in Malaysia through Maxis ‘ business arm, Maxis Business, the system did help’ on-demand ‘ top computing services, providing customers with access to low-latency computing, GPU as a Service, and storage. With its multi-access edge computing ( MEC ) capabilities, data from end-users and devices can be processed at the edge. This, combined with Artificial Intelligence ( AI), provides real-time processing and intelligent decision-making.

With the click of a button, businesses can create network slices on-demand and deploy mission-critical 5G applications on MEC with the help of Paragon’s powerful marketplace, which Maxis customers and partners can access for both customers and partners.

Our collaboration addresses customer needs, according to Goh Seow Eng, by offering a unified 5G platform that makes orchestration simpler across network and cloud environments. The platform gives businesses greater access, speed, and flexibility to seamlessly deploy and manage 5G and cloud computing solutions. This will enable them to concentrate on their main line of business, boosting their standing on the global stage. We as the leading integrated telco in the nation anticipate accelerating the adoption of 5G-A and 5G and the digitalization of Malaysian businesses as the preferred digital business partner.

Meanwhile, Bill Chang, CEO of Singtel Digital InfraCo, said,” We’ve seen a strong shift in demand from enterprises for 5G and edge computing capabilities to accelerate their digital transformation. Singtel has been in the forefront of this development, creating various strategic alliances with telcos around the world, with Paragon playing a key role in this development.

He continued, adding that Paragon makes it easier for telcos to deliver and scale 5G use cases, and that the company is pleased to work with Maxis to expand and strengthen the service opportunities of 5G and edge monetisation in Malaysia.

The platform’s capabilities can benefit businesses through a wide range of enterprise applications across different verticals that require high-speed data processing, such as real-time analytics, mixed reality, and autonomous systems. To meet the cybersecurity and data sovereignty needs of Malaysian businesses, the platform will be hosted and deployed locally.

In four ASEAN markets, Paragon’s platform creation and power have now been successfully used. With Maxis bringing this capability exclusively to Malaysia, it will be simple for multinational corporations to operate with ease, with a shared goal, and with a unified architecture throughout the region. Given Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, where the country will play a more active role in leading the regional bloc’s economic and digital aspirations, the move is appropriate.

This collaboration demonstrates Maxis ‘ commitment to bringing innovation to the market and enabling Industry 4.0 transformation through practical use cases. In addition to 5G and cloud-native solutions, this commitment includes leading the development of next-generation solutions in Malaysia around AI and Generative AI, the Internet of Things, and 5G-Advanced technology.

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Bridgenet Solutions, a CelcomDigi subsidiary, pioneers secure cyber-experience at inaugural cybersecurity symposium

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  • Gathering business leaders, administration officials, security professionals
  • Sharing of knowledge regarding the changing nature of security threats

(From left): Queenie Lee, Chief Revenue Officer of Bridgenet Solutions; Alex Liew, Deputy Chairman, PIKOM, The National Tech Association of Malaysia; Keane Leong, Group CEO of Bridgenet Solutions; Fong Choong Fook, Founder & Executive Chairman of LGMS Bhd; Marcus Tan, Managing Partner of Tan & Co, Advocates and Solicitors; and Loy Kuang Haow, CTO of Bridgenet Solutions.

Cybersecurity is now a top priority in every industry because of the fast pace of modern change. Malaysia, in particular, is working towards overcoming the spaces within its existing system, after facing almost half a million leaked records from data vulnerabilities in the second quarter of the last year. In accordance with this, the Malaysian Parliament’s second reading of the Cybersecurity Act 2024 on March 25, 2024, aims to establish a strong regulatory framework for safeguarding Malaysia’s security environment. Companies like Bridgenet Solutions Sdn Bhd are stepping in to provide the assistance needed in this situation.

Since its founding in 2003, Bridgenet has grown to become a specialized service provider for system support systems and has expanded to include programs that assist customers in maintaining their IT facilities for different businesses. Their entry into an acquisition agreement with CelcomDigi in 2021 marked their transition from being the nation’s largest provider of Internet services and solutions, accelerating digital alterations and modernizing customers ‘ Internet infrastructures by putting security first.

This includes supporting government initiatives like the Cybersecurity Act of 2024, which mandates that national crucial information infrastructure (NCII ) companies follow specific rules, standards, and procedures to manage security threats and situations. The establishment of the National Cyber Security Committee, the nomination of business leaders, and the registration of security service providers are among the key procedures.

The recent opening of the annual Cybersecurity Act Symposium at Le Meridien in Kuala Lumpur shows that Bridgenet is leading the charge in this area.

The conference focused on examining the repercussions and opportunities brought about by the passage and passage of the Act earlier this year, bringing together sector leaders, government officials, and security professionals from all over the country. In doing so, Bridgenet also made an effort to develop a co-operative tradition of security awareness and knowing among industry stakeholders, which would help to strengthen their collective resistance to computer threats.

Keane Leong, Group CEO of Bridgenet Solutions presents his welcome speech at the inaugural Cybersecurity Act Symposium.

” In recent years, we have witnessed a dramatic increase in virtual threats, from data breaches to ransom attacks”, remarked Keane Leong, Group CEO of Bridgenet, in his pleasant talk that highlighted the synergy between CelcomDigi’s strong telecom infrastructure and Bridgenet’s developed cybersecurity expertise. These events “do not just disrupt our operations, but they also undermine trust and confidence in our online systems.” As we adopt the online market, ensuring strong cybersecurity steps is no longer an option but a necessity.

The forum provided a forum for key industry figures to discuss gleaned lessons and best practices in cybersecurity. Following a panel discussion where authorities from diverse industries discussed techniques for compliance and risk management, the occasion featured an in-depth analysis of the Cybersecurity Act and its impact on businesses and individuals.

” The debate at the conference highlighted important aspects of the Cybersecurity Act, offering members invaluable insight into conformity and best practices in cybersecurity”, shared Alex Liew, Deputy Chairman, PIKOM, The National Tech Association of Malaysia, who served as the symposium’s mediator. Fong Choong Fook, Founder &amp, Executive Chairman of LGMS Berhad, and symposium panelist, also added,” The symposium provided a comprehensive overview of the Cybersecurity Act and its implications. It provided a fantastic forum for networking and knowledge sharing among industry peers.

Another of the event’s panelists, Marcus Tan, Managing Partner of Tan &amp, Co, Advocates and Solicitors, commented on the symposium’s importance from the legal perspective, noting,” The symposium served as a vital forum for understanding the legal nuances of the Cybersecurity Act, equipping attendees with the necessary knowledge to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape”.

Additionally, attendees gained hands-on experience and practical knowledge about implementing cybersecurity measures from workshops and interactive sessions. Additionally, the exhibition area featured the most recent innovations and services from leading cybersecurity solution providers, giving attendees a taste of the digital security industry’s future.

” This event showcased our commitment to leading the charge in cybersecurity. The information we and our partners have learned can better protect our infrastructure and data, according to Loy Kuang Haow, Chief Technology Officer of Bridgenet.

The passing of the Cybersecurity Act 2024 represents a pivotal stride towards securing Malaysia’s digital landscape. A secure and resilient digital future can be created by implementing robust cybersecurity measures and encouraging collaboration.

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Venturetech revolutionises Malaysia’s underwater robotics landscape with US.2 million investment in SS Rover  

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  • Partnership will promote teleoperated systems creation &amp, implementation
  • Investment may energy SS Rover’s development, up ROV development &amp, company initiatives

Venturetech revolutionises Malaysia’s underwater robotics landscape with US$2.2 million investment in SS Rover  

VentureTECH Sdn. Bhd. has announced a strategic investment of US$ 2.2 million ( RM10 million ) in SS Rover Sdn. Bhd., a leading underwater remotely operated vehicle ( ROVs ) solutions provider in Malaysia. In a joint statement, the parties&nbsp, said, this agreement may accelerate the development and implementation of SS Rover’s cutting-edge teleoperated system and incorporated digital twin ship structure, transforming the underground operations landscape.

SS Rover is a homegrown tech firm specialising in engineered services, products, and mechanical solutions for the offshore oil and gas, electricity, telecommunication, and under legal infrastructure industries. With over 15 years of experience in underwater ROVs and robotic system training, the company has expanded its expertise to include TVET, MRO ( refurbishment ) and offshore field operations. Now, it stands at the vanguard of delivering state-of-the-art engineered solutions and mechanical solutions to its different customers.

VentureTEC H’s funding may be instrumental in fuelling SS Rover’s growth and innovation by supporting ROV equipment and system growth, working capital, and business development efforts. This strategic agreement will give SS Rover the ability to improve its teleoperated system, increase its capacity, and increase its operating efficiency. Also, the investment will support the development of the ground-breaking included digital mini fleet system, which has the potential to revolutionize underwater operations.

Ahmad Redzuan Sidek, CEO of VentureTECH said,” We are thrilled to help SS Rover’s creative technique to revolutionising underwater activities. Their experience and creative solutions are in line with our goal to promote technological advancement and advance Bumiputera businesses. We strongly believe that SS Rover’s advanced underwater mechanical solutions may include a profound effect on the offshore oil &amp, petrol, electricity, communications, and utilities industries, and we are excited to embark on this trip of growth up”.

Our investment may help SS Rover advance across the entire industry, as well as advance its technological prowess and expand its market presence. This partnership demonstrates VentureTEC H’s belief in SS Rover’s ability to create high-quality jobs while shaping the field’s future of underwater robotic solutions. It reflects our commitment to making purchases that benefit society. Ahmad Redzuan emphasised.

The advancements made by SS Rover in teleoperated techniques are major technological advances in marine ROV operations. These innovations are intended to improve marine operation’s effectiveness and reliability, decrease risks, and improve operating efficiency. Along the voyage, the development of the integrated digital twin ship program, shall in particular, let technology, enabling better decision-making and more effective ship management.

” We are thrilled to receive this funding from VentureTECH in order to make our cutting-edge teleoperated systems more widely used and advance our goal of providing clients with the most advanced robotic solutions. With VentureTEC H’s support, we are well-positioned to establish leadership in underwater ROV and pioneer significant advancements in the industry”. Syamsul Nizam Azmee, the founder and managing director of SS Rover, said.

This collaboration highlights the strength of Malaysia’s technology ecosystem and its potential to spur international innovation. Through advanced technology and environmentally sound practices, VentureTECH and SS Rover are on the verge of changing the future of underwater operations.

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