Visa announces Previn Pillay as new country manager for Malaysia

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  • Over 18 decades of leadership expertise across APAC &amp, CEMEA
  • Just led Visa’s Merchant Income & Acquiring for Asia Pacific.

Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, has appointed Previn Pillay&nbsp, ( pic ) as its new country manager for Malaysia. Previn, a trained head with 18 years of experience, has held leadership positions in both Asia Pacific and CEMEA.

Most late, he led Merchant Income &amp, Acquiring for Asia Pacific, overseeing regional and local groups managing Visa’s proper trader and acquiring alliances.

Recently, as head of Digital Solutions for the area, he worked with financial institutions, fintechs, and merchants to build online capabilities, including tokenisation, smart payments, and industrial mobility solutions. In addition to working at Visa’s Asia Pacific office, he has spent more than ten years in client administration tasks in Australia and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Malaysia is a significant business for Visa, according to Previn, and I’m eager to work there as we continue to innovate and satisfy the needs of our partners and clients. I look forward to utilizing my experience to work with important clients, vendor partners, and government stakeholders to promote the growth of electronic payments, introduce new solutions, and make a positive impact on Malay consumers and businesses.

Serene Gay, Visa’s group country director for local Southeast Asia and SVP, world clients &amp, acquirers, said:” We are delighted to welcome Previn as Malaysia’s region director, reinforcing our commitment to expanding the world’s digital payments ecology. With his deep knowledge and local knowledge, Previn is well-placed to guide our Malaysia group. He and his team may continue to collaborate with key partners to provide cutting-edge safety and technology options, making sure Visa remains the most advantageous payment method.

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445,000 public officers to benefit from AI at Work 2.0 by the Ministry of Digital and Google Cloud

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  • Under the 5-year AI plan, Govt. to acquire gen AI to better serve the angkatan.
  • First contact of” AI at Job” as a pilot program was unveiled in December 2024.

From left to right: Raja Azmi Adam, director, Strategic Pursuit Google Cloud (Public Sector) - ASEAN, Su Ann Lim, head of Government Affairs and Public Policy, Southeast Asia Cluster, Google Cloud, Rahul Sharma, managing director, Public Sector, Asia Pacific, Google Cloud, Gobind Singh Deo, minister of Digital, Adrian Marcellus, CEO, MyDIGITAL Corporation, Shamsul Izhan Abdul Majid, CEO, National AI Office and Ari Nadin, head of Google Workspace, Southeast Asia, Google Cloud

The Ministry of Digital and Google Cloud have announced the release of” AI at Job 2.0,” a joint effort to give people soldiers the ability to use Google Workspace’s most recent conceptual AI abilities to change public service delivery.

The first iteration of this initiative,” AI at Work”, was unveiled as a pilot programme at the launch of Malaysia’s National AI Office ( NAIO ) in December 2024. The Government of Malaysia now has an upgraded Google Workspace with Gemini set, available to up to 445, 000 people soldiers, thanks to the improved and expanded AI at Work 2.0.

Gobind Singh Deo, minister of modern, delivered officiating remarks on the importance of this action, saying that” the capacity of public and private sector organizations that touch the lives of almost all Malaysians to improve service delivery using next-generation technologies may play a vital role in establishing Malaysia as a online driven, high-income economy.”

The state is leading the charge in harnessing conceptual AI with the right guardrails in place to better serve the jabatan in our five-year AI systems action plan, according to AI at Work 2.0 by NAIO and Google Cloud. We are quickly advancing past the captain, which demonstrated our tenet that artificial intelligence can improve worker productivity and effectiveness,” he continued.

In the upcoming months, we anticipate highlighting the substantial benefits of our public-private AI partnerships as we promote greater AI deployment speed across government agencies and the broader business ecosystem, according to Gobind.

However, Fabian Bigar, secretary-general of the Ministry of Digital, stated:” We are accelerating our efforts to ensure all state employees have access to conceptual AI helpers. Some government employees now have access to Google Workspace as a result of MyGovUC integration.

We applaud Google Cloud’s commitment to advance further by offering an expanded set of conceptual Artificial tools and providing individualized training to assist our government employees maximize their benefits. This partnership will help simplify daily tasks across agencies, departments, and functions, freeing employees to focus on more sophisticated and proper work, eventually enhancing people service delivery and citizen engagement”, he added.

Important advantages of Google Workspace for public employees:

    Contextually relevant content generation and enhanced meetings: &nbsp, Gemini in Google Workspace apps like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Meet, and Chat assists public officers in summarising, analysing, and drafting content based on their emails and documents—without leaving the app. This enhances document, slide, and spreadsheet creation, enables AI-powered meeting note-taking, improves audio and video quality, and helps late joiners catch up on discussions.

  • More engaging internal and public communications: Google Vids, a generative AI-powered video creation app integrated with Drive and Photos, enables government agencies to produce explainer videos, communicate updates in a more personalised way, and scale employee training. It helps officers without video production expertise structure narratives, use a built-in teleprompter, and finalise videos with an intuitive, scene-based editor.
  • The Gemini Advanced app on work laptops or mobile devices provides creative support and automated repetitive tasks: It assists public officers with challenging tasks like coding, data extraction, and analysis. Additionally, office staff can create” Gems “—customized AI assistants—for specialized tasks like analyzing citizen feedback for sentiment trends.
  • Synthesis and insight extraction from multiple sources: &nbsp, NotebookLM Plus, a generative AI-powered research assistant, allows public officers to interact with up to 250 trusted sources, including legislative and policy documents, to gain grounded insights for faster decision-making. Users can upload documents, web pages, or multimedia content into a shared notebook and generate briefing documents, FAQs, and AI-powered summaries.

AI at Work 2.0 will provide specialized training and consultation to public servants to help them make the most of Google Workspace’s integration with Gemini. Hands-on workshops will concentrate on finding the best prompts and identifying areas where AI tools add the most value.

Google Workspace with Gemini is one of the first generative AI productivity solutions to attain a comprehensive set of safety, privacy, and security certifications, including SOC 1/2/3, ISO 27001/17/18, and ISO 42001. It automatically applies Google Workspace’s enterprise-grade data security and privacy controls, ensuring that Gemini retrieves only relevant data that the user has permission to access.

Rahul Sharma, managing director, public sector, Asia Pacific, Google Cloud, said:” The Ministry of Digital and NAIO are applying a comprehensive approach to enhance workforce proficiency and productivity, from deploying employee agents through Google Workspace with Gemini to appointing and training generative AI champions to help accelerate adoption across agencies, to implementing before-and-after measurement to quantify value”.

Our partnership positions the Malaysian government as a leader in reimagining how work is done and serving as a model for local governments and businesses looking to increase the adoption of AI at scale. We look forward to continuing to advance Malaysia’s national AI agenda through AI at Work 2.0 and other joint initiatives”, he added.

270 public officers from various government organizations, including Jabatan Digital Negara, were part of the AI at Work pilot. These officers leveraged Google Workspace’s generative AI capabilities to complete day-to-day tasks more efficiently, such as drafting policy papers and written communications. According to user feedback and usage analytics, 97 % of participants saved an average of 3.25 hours per week, with 91 % claiming that generative AI had improved their work quality.

AI at Work 2.0 builds upon Google’s ongoing commitment to Malaysia, which includes a US$ 2 billion ( RM8.8 billion ) investment in a new Google data centre and Google Cloud region, as well as AI upskilling initiatives like Gemini Academy and the Google AI Essentials course, offered via the Gemilang training programme.

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Shan Li joins Endeavor Malaysia as new managing director, leading the charge in high-impact entrepreneurship 

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  • Founder of Swipeless and co-founder of Babydash
  • Brings experience in command, entrepreneurship, and development to the role

Endeavor Malaysia has announced the appointment of Shan Li ( pic ) &nbsp, as its new managing director. With an extensive background in business management, innovation, and proper growth, she brings a dynamic blend of experience that will generate Endeavor Malaysia’s mission to empower high-impact entrepreneurs and develop a vivid innovative ecosystem.

Shan Li’s career spans a variety of professions and responsibilities, which show how creative and adaptable she is to business. Before launching into entrepreneurship, she is a competent licensed officer with over 15 years of experience in banking and finance. As an entrepreneur, she is the leader of Swipeless, a singles system that connects people in real life, and the co-founder of Babydash, one of Malaysia’s founding e-commerce platforms for the dad and baby business.

Shan Li is a partner at ScaleUp Malaysia, where she is instrumental in startups ‘ acceleration and funding. Her appointment comes at a crucial time for Endeavor Malaysia as the company grows internationally.

” I am excited to be part of this global community of entrepreneurs, which boasts over 2, 600 high-impact entrepreneurs who collectively generate US$ 67 billion ( RM299 billion ) in annual revenues and have created more than 4.1 million jobs. I’m passionate about promoting the success of the ecosystem and accelerating the growth of Malaysia’s high-impact entrepreneurs,” Shan Li said.

Brahmal Vasudevan, chairman of Endeavor Malaysia and founder and CEO of Creador, remarked,” We are thrilled to welcome Shan Li as our new managing director. Her extensive experience, particularly in the technology and startup ecosystem, will be invaluable as we continue to support high-growth companies”.

Shan Li’s strategic judgment and commitment to developing entrepreneurial talent will significantly increase our impact, he continued.

Under Shan Li’s leadership, Endeavor Malaysia will expand its support for entrepreneurs through tailored mentorship, access to capital, and global networking opportunities. Her appointment aligns with the organization’s commitment to providing high-impact entrepreneurs with the resources and guidance needed to succeed on a global scale.

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Yayasan Hasanah, Carsome Academy partner to offer US0,000 in grants for underserved rural youths 

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  • Aims to develop localized talent, minimize reliance on foreign workers
  • will provide youth with vocational support and specialized mechanical skills.

Carsome group’s co-founder & CEO of Carsome Academy, Teoh Jiun Ee, and chief programme officer of Yayasan Hasanah, Intan Zalila Mohd Yusof, during the launch of the B40 TVET Scholarship and Employability Programme under the EmpowerYouth initiative at Carsome Group’s Headquarters in Petaling Jaya

Yayasan Hasanah and Carsome Academy have partnered to provide scholarships for 25 students from B40 communities under Carsome Academy’s EmpowerYouth initiative. By granting access to industry-aligned mechanical TVET programs, which aim to promote sustainable incomes and close crucial skill gaps in the automotive labor, this collaboration aims to improve underserved youngsters in rural Malaysia.

The Ministry of Finance and Yayasan Hasanah both support the EmpowerYouth initiative through a Hasanah Special Grant.

It seeks to generate good shift by equipping younger individuals with complex mechanical skills, leadership advancement, and livelihood support. Participants will receive a one-off transfer allowance to go Carsome Academy in Petaling Jaya, along with a monthly allowance covering living expenses, accommodation, and go.

Additionally, Carsome Academy is providing over 30 % off of the award cost. This collaboration aims to cultivate skilled technicians while reducing reliance on foreign labour, aligning with Malaysia’s growing automotive sector, which was projected to reach a market value of US$ 8.32 billion ( RM37 billion ) in 2024.

Yayasan Hasanah’s director and managing director Siti Kamariah Ahmad Subki stated that the organization’s goal is to equip our children with future-ready knowledge through quality TVET instruction that leads to long-term jobs. This association with Carsome Academy is an expense in their potential, preparing them with industry-relevant mechanical skills, hands-on education in Carsome seminars, and the confidence to create livelihoods.

” Beyond themselves, through efforts like EmpowerYouth , these people are not only achieving economic opportunities but also contributing to Malaysia’s progress in the mechanical field, while uplifting their families and communities,” she added.

The co-founder and CEO of Carsome Academy, Teoh Jiun Ee, said,” Our collaboration with Yayasan Hasanah on this initiative is a crucial step in our shared goal of uplifting underserved communities. By empowering young people with the leadership and technical competencies necessary for success, we are opening doors for them in the automotive industry as well as aiding them in creating a brighter future for themselves and their families.

According to him,” the grant’s structure ensures that students and their families don’t have to pay for moving to urban areas to study and find employment opportunities that will enhance their economic prospects.”

This collaboration is a result of Yayasan Hasanah’s commitment to promote inclusive and sustainable development in Malaysia. By partnering with Carsome Academy, the grant ensures that young individuals, particularly from rural B40 communities, receive the technical, personal, and professional support needed to thrive in a competitive job market. The ten-month program aims to bridge skills gaps in the automotive industry while offering holistic personal development through additional modules like CV writing, interview skills, IT proficiency, and leadership training.

Key areas of collaboration include:

  • 25 underprivileged youth receive full scholarships to attend Carsome Academy’s TVET programs.
  • Comprehensive TVET training, combining practical and classroom learning, with a 70 % focus on hands-on experience.
  • Livelihood support to reduce students ‘ financial burdens, including living expenses, accommodation, and travel allowances.
  • On-the-job training with major automotive industry players such as Carsome, Proton, and Chery.
  • Development of a career path to help participants acquire skills that are in line with the needs of the automotive industry.

Upon graduation, students will be prepared for roles such as service advisors, junior inspectors, and automotive technicians.

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Yayasan Hasanah, Carsome Academy partner to offer RM450,000 in grants for underserved rural youths 

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  • Aims to develop localized talent, minimize reliance on foreign workers
  • will provide employment support for youth with professional automotive skills andamp; livelihood support.

Carsome group’s co-founder & CEO of Carsome Academy, Teoh Jiun Ee, and chief programme officer of Yayasan Hasanah, Intan Zalila Mohd Yusof, during the launch of the B40 TVET Scholarship and Employability Programme under the EmpowerYouth initiative at Carsome Group’s Headquarters in Petaling Jaya

Yayasan Hasanah and Carsome Academy have partnered to provide scholarships for 25 students from B40 communities under Carsome Academy’s EmpowerYouth initiative. By granting them access to industry-aligned mechanical TVET programs, which aim to create sustainable incomes and close crucial skill spaces in the automotive labor, this partnership aims to boost underserved youth in remote Malaysia.

Yayasan Hasanah and the Ministry of Finance are both partners in the Hasanah Special Grant, which supports the EmpowerYouth initiative.

It seeks to generate good shift by equipping younger individuals with complex mechanical skills, leadership advancement, and livelihood support. Participants will receive a one-off transfer allowance to go Carsome Academy in Petaling Jaya, along with a monthly allowance covering living expenses, accommodation, and go.

Additionally, Carsome Academy offers award fees that are up to 30 % cheaper. This collaboration aims to cultivate skilled technicians while reducing reliance on foreign labour, aligning with Malaysia’s growing automotive sector, which was projected to reach a market value of US$ 8.32 billion ( RM37 billion ) in 2024.

Yayasan Hasanah’s director and managing director Siti Kamariah Ahmad Subki stated that the organization’s goal is to equip our children with future-ready knowledge through quality TVET instruction that leads to long-term jobs. This association with Carsome Academy is an expense in their potential, preparing them with industry-relevant mechanical skills, hands-on education in Carsome seminars, and the confidence to create livelihoods.

” Beyond themselves, through initiatives like EmpowerYouth , these individuals are not only securing economic opportunities but also contributing to Malaysia’s advancement in the automotive sector, while uplifting their families and communities,” she added.

The co-founder and CEO of Carsome Academy, Teoh Jiun Ee, said,” Working with Yayasan Hasanah on this initiative is a crucial step in our shared goal of uplifting underserved communities. By empowering young people with the leadership and technical competencies necessary for success, we are also assisting them in establishing a brighter future for both themselves and their families.

According to him,” the grant’s structure ensures that students and their families don’t have to pay for moving to urban areas to study and find employment opportunities that will enhance their economic prospects.”

This collaboration is a part of Yayasan Hasanah’s commitment to promote inclusive and sustainable development in Malaysia. By partnering with Carsome Academy, the grant ensures that young individuals, particularly from rural B40 communities, receive the technical, personal, and professional support needed to thrive in a competitive job market. The ten-month program’s goal is to bridge skills gaps in the automotive industry while also providing holistic personal development through additional modules like CV writing, interview skills, IT proficiency, and leadership training.

Key areas of collaboration include:

  • 25 underprivileged youth receive full scholarships to attend Carsome Academy’s TVET programs.
  • Comprehensive TVET training, combining practical and classroom learning, with a 70 % focus on hands-on experience.
  • Livelihood support to reduce students ‘ financial burdens, including living expenses, accommodation, and travel allowances.
  • On-the-job training with major automotive industry players such as Carsome, Proton, and Chery.
  • developing career paths to help participants acquire skills appropriate for the needs of the automotive industry.

Upon graduation, students will be prepared for roles such as service advisors, junior inspectors, and automotive technicians.

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Tune Talk’s Contact Card reaches 200,000 users, driving digital and sustainable networking

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  • Helps conservation, aligning with UN SDGs, specifically Goals 12 and 13
  • The Phone Card is piece of Tune Repeats app overhaul, completing by Q2 2025

Tune Repeats Phone Card function on the Tune Speak software has reached a milestone of 200, 000 people, with figures continuing to grow. Designed for both personal and professional network, the Contact Card offers a smooth and automated way to connect, reinforcing Tune Repeats devotion to development, sustainability, and enhancing its subscribers ‘ modern lifestyles.

Launched in December 2024, the Phone Card is a key element of Tune Repeats continued game remodel, set for implementation by the end of Q2 2025. Subscribers will benefit from a more enjoyable and active user experience thanks to this upgrade.

The Contact Card is becoming a thorough digital hub that meets members ‘ lifestyle and marketing needs, according to Tune Chat. This improvement is in line with the bank’s goal of creating an ecosystem that connects people and provides them with more intelligent, effective electronic options.

Beyond pleasure, the Phone Card also supports conservation efforts, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Focus 12: Responsible Consumption and Production, and Goal 13: Climate Action.

Going electronically is a vital economic program. According to The World Counts, over 199 tonnes of paper are produced every 15 seconds, with 93 % sourced from trees and 2, 700 litres of water required to produce just one tonne of paper. The Personal Card helps minimize paper use, minimising the economic impact of deforestation, water usage, and energy consumption associated with paper manufacturing.

The Contact Card also reduces carbon emissions, making a more responsible and environmentally-friendly digital future by eliminating traditional business cards and the logistics of printing and distribution. Tune Talk will continue to support efforts to advance digital transformation and sustainability. As Malaysia’s first fully cloud-enabled mobile network operator, it has successfully migrated to Amazon Web Services, reinforcing its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.

” The Contact Card is just one of the many ways we’re making life easier ( and cooler ) for Tune Talkers. Whether it’s for work or just flexing your digital presence, we’re all about giving you the tools to stay connected effortlessly”, said Gurtaj Singh Padda, executive director of Tune Talk. ” This is just the beginning—there’s a whole lot more coming your way”, he added.

The Tune Talk Contact Card is a prime example of how technology can promote sustainability while enhancing convenience. Subscribers can anticipate an even more rewarding and seamless digital experience as more features are released in the upcoming months.

For more information, visit Tune Talk’s official website at https ://www.tunetalk .com or check out its newsroom for the latest updates.

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SEEDS Capital appoints 20 new partners to catalyse at least US9.5 million of investments into Singapore-based deep tech startups

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  • Does manage US$ 110 mil over the next 3 times for serious tech startups
  • Today has 52 co-investors supporting business development with expertise &amp, funding

SEEDS Capital ( SEEDS ), the investment arm of Enterprise Singapore ( EnterpriseSG), has appointed 20 new local and global partners to co-invest in innovative Singapore-based deep tech startups under the Startup SG Equity scheme. SEEDS will allocate US$ 110 million ( RM668 million ) over the next three years, aiming to catalyse an additional US$ 219.5 million ( RM977.5 million ) through private sector partnerships in areas such as advanced manufacturing, pharmbio/medtech, agrifood tech, sustainability ( including energy, circular economy, urban mobility, and water ), spacetech, and quantum tech.

]RM1 = US$ 0.22]

With these innovative appointments, SEEDS today has 52 co-investors offering complex and domain expertise, professional knowledge, global networks, and early-growth investment capabilities to enable startups level properly.

enabling companies ‘ international goals through global network

According to EnterpriseSG, new partners such as East Ventures ( Indonesia ), Global Brain ( Japan ), HIVEN ( South Korea ), Paspalis Capital ( Australia ), and Valuence Ventures ( USA/South Korea ) will provide resources and networks to help startups expand into new markets for customer acquisition or supply chain diversification. For instance, Paspalis ‘ solid presence in Australia’s Northern Territory has enabled SEEDS ‘ spacetech investee Equatorial Space Systems to test-bed its options. In addition, East Ventures ‘ systems in Indonesia have assisted AMILI in expanding operations there and helped Mesh Bio secure its first Indonesian client.

” Expanding into Japan presents problems such as social distinctions, communication obstacles, and sophisticated corporate environments. Some startups in Singapore struggle to understand Japan’s complex decision-making procedures and direct communication methods. We assist our investment companies in localizing their strategies and developing their value propositions for the Asian market, according to Global Brain partner Tatsuya Matsumoto.

” We also guide them in relationship-building and integrating their answers into the broader strategic objectives of Chinese corporates, ensuring smoother market access and long-term partnerships”, he added.

Driving progress through specialized knowledge

The new sessions even include local investors familiar with Singapore’s business environment, who can guide startups on rules and weighting. These resources will promote the implementation of native investment and the development of the ecosystem. Significant owners include Vickers Venture Partners, iGlobe Associates, K3 Ventures, Antares Ventures, Monk’s Hill Ventures, and Tin Men Capital.

” While Singapore’s deep software environment is still maturing compared to more established business ecosystems, it has reached a critical tone level, thanks largely to various government initiatives”, said Arun Pai, main at Monk’s Hill Ventures.

” Previously, we made selective deep tech investments, but our current pipeline includes a significantly higher proportion of deep tech startups. These founders are targeting diverse areas such as material science in agritech, advanced robotics, AI for healthcare diagnostics, and next-generation semiconductor technologies across Southeast Asia”, he added.

Deep tech startups need a lot of support because their development cycles for technology and products are long, as well as the need for significant capital at the growth stage, particularly for production lines, industrial scaling, or clinical trials. New partner funds such as healthcare VCs Kurma Partners, 22Health Ventures, and Trinity Innovation Biosciences Singapore, sustainability VCs Eurazeo and Shift4Good, and hard tech VCs Xora, Matter Venture Partners, and ST Engineering Ventures bring industry and technical expertise to support these startups effectively.

Julien Mialaret, operating partner, and Ernest Xue, director of Eurazeo, commented:” In 2025, we expect investment activity to accelerate due to the maturity of key technologies and their increasing economic viability, driving broader adoption. Investment momentum will be further fueled by efforts in Europe and Asia to support green technologies and low-carbon economies. Our main goal is to assist founders in successfully scaling solutions across their target markets.

Strengthening Singapore’s deep tech ecosystem

” We are pleased to see strong interest from the venture capital community, from well-established Singapore-based funds to international funds with deep expertise in backing deep tech leaders, as well as corporate venture funds looking to support startups with synergistic technologies and business models,” said SEEDS Capital Chairman Cindy Khoo.

Singapore’s startup ecosystem is underpinned by a strong core of deep tech startups, and SEEDS will continue to do so. We look forward to working with our new co-investment partners to develop and scale the next generation of innovative, impactful technologies”, she added.

To date, nearly US$ 2.2 billion has been invested in over 330 startups under the Startup SG Equity scheme. To further support early to early-growth stage deep tech startups, SEEDS has also raised its co-investment cap from US$ 5.8 million to US$ 8.9 million per startup.

Learn more about SEEDS Capital here: &nbsp, https: //www. seedscapital. sg

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Collektr appoints Tunku Alizakri as chairman to lead growth in lifestream commerce for collectibles across APAC 

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  • brings years of command to create a powerful collection habitat.
  • Previous CEO of EPF, served as chairman of MAVCAP &amp, Penjana Kapital

Collektr appoints Tunku Alizakri as chairman to lead growth in lifestream commerce for collectibles across APAC 

Collektr, Asia-Pacific’s premier livestream auction platform for collectibles, has appointed Tunku Alizakri Raja Muhammad Alias ( pic ) as its chairman. This milestone demonstrates the company’s commitment to facilitating the APAC region’s rapidly expanding collectibles market through the use of livestream commerce to deliver flawless and engaged trading experiences.

Tunku Alizakri brings decades of authority knowledge, having driven revolutionary growth in global and regional agencies. His experience will help Collektr form a vivid ecosystem for enthusiasts, investors, and sellers. The Asia-Pacific collectibles market is poised for major rise, driven by livestreaming, AI systems, and increasing collection relationship, positioning Collektr to capitalise on this expanding sector.

As of 2024, the global collectibles market is valued at$ 484.6 billion ( RM2 trillion ) and is projected to grow at an annual rate of 6.2 %, surpassing$ 1 trillion ( RM4.4 trillion ) by 2033.

]RM1 = US$ 0.22]

APAC accounts for approximately 30 % of the global collectibles market, generating$ 91.8 billion in 2024. Areas such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand are driving progress, with a projected Rate of 6.4 %. Livestream commerce in APAC surged to$ 125 billion in 2023, with China alone contributing$ 104 billion, highlighting the transformative potential of livestream-based collectibles trading in the region.

Malaysia’s e-commerce sector is projected to grow at a 14 % CAGR, exceeding$ 11.3 billion by 2027. Items are among the fastest-growing categories, reinforcing Malaysia’s authority in blending culture and business in the modern era.

Southeast Asia’s e-commerce market is expected to reach$ 230 billion by 2027, fuelled by the rapid adoption of livestream commerce in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. Malaysia’s livestream business industry is expected to achieve$ 1.5 billion by 2027, strengthening its position as a significant regional person.

Globally, the$ 484.6 billion collectibles market is set to surpass$ 1 trillion by 2033, with APAC livestream commerce generating$ 125 billion in 2023. Malaysia’s development aligns with international trends, positioning Collektr to get market share locally, regionally, and abroad.

” Video business is the future of how individuals connect, trade, and build areas”, said Tunku Alizakri. Collektr is uniquely positioned to tunnel emotions and trading in this fast expanding sector. I’m excited to collaborate with the crew to reinvent the possibilities in the new market and design the collectibles industry.

He also emphasized the importance of a friendly business environment, especially in AI-driven sectors, and the potential role Collektr you play in expanding opportunities for job workers in this changing environment.

” Appointing Tunku Alizakri marks the next phase of our development journey”, said Adlin Yusman, CEO of Collektr. ” We aim to get proper investors, create physical spaces for the collectibles society, and incorporate cutting-edge technology to enhance the customer experience. As we expand throughout APAC, we hope to illustrate how this industry can contribute significantly to the country’s economy.

Collektr is well-positioned to get a sizable portion of the APAC video collectibles marketplace, which is projected to grow significantly over the next few years. Collektr is poised to change how collectibles are traded, opening up both business opportunities and ethnic connections as livestream commerce gains momentum and increases consumer engagement.

The company’s vision is to revolutionise the collectibles buying practice by bringing transparency, confidence, and enthusiasm to the process. Under Tunku Alizakri’s management, Collektr invites investors, partners, and collectors to join in shaping a prospect where video commerce and collectibles cross, fostering both company growth and social enrichment.

Tunku Alizakri is a revolutionary leader with a proven track record in leadership, approach, and transformational change. He spearheaded modernization initiatives that substantially increased the financial results of thousands of Malay staff as the former CEO of the People Provident Fund ( EPF). He also served as chairman of MAVCAP and Penjana Kapital, playing a pivotal role in advancing Malaysia’s venture capital and startup ecosystem, driving innovation, and unlocking new opportunities for emerging businesses.

Additionally, he sits on the boards of some of Malaysia’s most influential organisations, including Petronas Dagangan Berhad, Bumi Armada Berhad, Prudential BSN Takaful, and RAM Holdings Berhad (RAM Rating Services Berhad ), where he provides strategic insights to drive growth and governance excellence.

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SuperReturn Saudi Arabia 2025: A window into Saudi Arabia’s investment ambitions

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  • Saudi home practices playing a crucial role in the privatization of the economy
  • Govt has devotion to regulatory clarity, co-investment options

A panel on govt policies & how economic reforms in Saudi Arabia support the development of a thriving private capital ecosystem.

The first SuperReturn Saudi Arabia conference took place in Riyadh on January 27 to 28th, 2025, and Riyadh was brimming with enthusiasm. This premier private investment event brought together executives in private capital, venture capital, and family offices for two days of in-depth discussions, effective networking, and proper collaborations.

Kicked-off by Abdulmuhsen Alkhalaf ( pic, below ), the Saudi vice minister of finance, who emphasised that the contribution of private investment to Saudi’s GDP had increased from 14.6 % in 2016 to 23.4 % in Q3 of 2024. This reflects a market-friendly and energetic environment that encourages investment in important and appealing sectors of the nation.

His open remarks were followed by precise speeches, which resembled five-minute floor innings, setting the tone for the panels that followed. From general partners ( GPs ) and limited partners ( LPs ) to family office executives and venture capitalists, all of whom were interested in opportunities in Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA ( Middle East North Africa ) region.

Saudi’s aspirations and dreams are encapsulated in its Vision 2030 plan and progress has been rapid since the plan’s introduction with non-oil activities accounting for 52 % of GDP in 2024 versus 4.9 % ( in 2015 ) before the plan was introduced. Its talent pool has been expanded, and there is more women’s workforce participation than expected ( 36 % ). It was below 10 % before Vision 2030, as women were disallowed to drive ( before September 2017 ) and work ( before 2008 without seeking a guardian’s permission )! SMEs have likewise doubled since 2016, with 45 % owned by Saudis, underscoring a vibrant entrepreneurial habitat.

Abdulmuhsen Alkhalaf (pic, below), the Saudi vice minister of finance who opened the 2-day conference.

Key elements and restaurants

The” People Business” of investment: Investors emphasized the long-term, large-scale commitment required to develop the Kingdom’s economy. Co-investment and collaboration positioning came into play as necessary components for success.

Problems in secret markets: Valuation, fee structures, and achievement persistence were recurring themes, with calls for discipline and clear effectiveness monitoring to create buyer trust.

Tech, AI, and companies: The rollout of AI in Saudi Arabia remains emerging at 2.5 %, creating significant opportunities for VC opportunities. Panelists emphasized the need for localized innovation and unusual talent to promote growth in startups and technology.

Family practices as game-changers: Panel featuring top managers like Fares Al Balwi, &nbsp, Chairman of Saudi based Al Blagha Holding Company for Investment, and Raied Alseif, CEO of Saudi based Sultan Holding Company, who shed light on Saudi family offices ‘ important roles in transforming private markets, focusing on long-term strategies, world co-investments, and concentrated excellent investments.

Opportunities in technology

Nearly every panel focused on the potential for growth, with almost every panel focusing on technology and AI. While an estimated 40 % of VC deployment globally is in AI related startups, only 2.5 % occurs in Saudi Arabia. Soumaya Ben Beya Dridje, Partner at Rasmal Ventures, the first VC firm established in Doha, Qatar, stressed the need for resilience. ” Investments are not for the faint-hearted. GPs must be passionate, patient, and committed to adding real value”.

Gaming and startup industries also took center stage. Abdullah Altamami, founder &amp, CEO of Merak Capital, a Saudi-based VC, highlighted the Kingdom’s cultural alignment with gaming. ” With 50 game studios and a young, tech-savvy population, Saudi Arabia is perfectly positioned to create and export local IPs globally”.

Ibrahim Sagna, Executive Chairman of Silverback Holdings, a Mauritius-based private investments firm, echoed this sentiment. ” Startups are emerging as local champions, scaling to the UAE, India, and beyond. Saudi Arabia has the resources and talent to accomplish all of this and more.

Family Offices: Driving private market transformation

A powerful panel involving Fares Al Balwi and Raied Alseif discussed how family offices are revolutionizing private markets, with Raied urging attendees to embrace co-investments:” Partnerships, whether local or global, thrive on trust and alignment. A long-term view is key to success”.

Hamdi Al Zaim, the managing partner of Saudi-based Alma Limited, described how his holding company, which oversees both an international and local portfolio of investments, has changed its investing strategy. ” Concentration in quality is better than quantity”, he said. ” We’ve shifted from making 6–8 deals annually to focusing on 3–4 high-quality investments. This ensures sustainable returns”.

The two-day event concluded each day with rich cultural showcases, including traditional Saudi coffee, sweet dates, and live performances, providing an authentic glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s heritage. These informal settings facilitated further discussions, turning business connections into meaningful relationships.

Saudi Arabia’s significant influence on the MENA region’s and beyond-related private capital dynamics was highlighted in SuperReturn Saudi Arabia 2025.

Saudi Arabia is quickly emerging as the epicenter of transformative investments, a vibrant and sustainable investment landscape, with SuperReturn acting as a platform to catalyze this evolution, from regulatory milestones to burgeoning industries like gaming, AI, and fintech.

SaudiReturn 2025: A panel on 'How will family offices transform private markets.'

Final Reflections: A global perspective on Saudi Arabia’s ambitions

Participants in SuperReturn Saudi Arabia 2025 reflected on the insights gained and their wider impact on global markets as the curtain came to a close. A senior executive from a major investment firm stated that” Saudi Arabia’s private capital ecosystem is maturing rapidly. The Kingdom has successfully created a climate in which foreign investors are open to competition and who can co-invest in deals and co-invest with family offices and venture capitalists. Those who have been in the Kingdom for the past 20 years, building relationships, connections and trust, see real real long-term potential” .&nbsp,

Strong government support has also made a difference, he added,” The commitment to regulatory transparency, co-investment opportunities, and emerging sectors like circular renewable energy, AI, manufacturing and gaming makes it an attractive destination”.

Looking beyond the Kingdom, the event also sparked discussions on what other nations, including Malaysia, could learn from Saudi Arabia’s transformation. Malaysia can take inspiration from Saudi Arabia’s approach to investment reform because it needs more private equity firms. By aligning policies with long-term investments— such as food security, desalination, hydrogen economy, healthtech, and gaming — Malaysia can attract Saudi’s family offices and scale its own startups to regional, MENA and international markets”, a Norwegian consultant shared.

SuperReturn Saudi Arabia 2025 was more than just a conference; it was also a gathering of the best global PE firms where GPs met LPs to network, exchange ideas, and network with local Saudi pension fund managers and chief investment officers ( CIOs ) from the richest Saudi Family Offices. Countries that want to grow their private markets and become potential future investment hubs could benefit from the Kingdom.

At DNA, Muhammad Adrian Wong serves as a contributing editor.

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MSIG Asia and RiskPoint Group collaborate on renewable energy insurance 

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  • Partnership aims to meet growing demand for renewable energy plan
  • Energy era investment of over US$ 3 trillion is anticipated over the next ten years.

MSIG Asia and RiskPoint Group collaborate on renewable energy insurance 

The RiskPoint Group and MSIG Asia have made a strategic alliance to expand the range of solar energy insurance options in the Asia-Pacific region. The partnership, which was announced on January 24, 2025, aims to bring together the advantages of both businesses to meet the growing need for professional insurance options in the fast expanding renewable energy sector. &nbsp,

Partnership Details&nbsp,

The Monetary Authority of Singapore ( MAS ) has approved RiskPoint’s appointment as MSIG Singapore’s Managing General Underwriter ( MGU). This agreement intends to cover renewable energy projects throughout the Asia-Pacific region using Singapore’s position as a local insurance hub. &nbsp,

MSIG and RiskPoint’s relationship combines MSIG’s geographical distribution network and economic strength with RiskPoint’s professional experience. Collectively, they aim to offer personalized comprehensive solutions for the construction and operation of solar, wind, and hydroelectric property. &nbsp,

Continue reading at https ://oursustainabilitymatters.com/msig-asia-and-riskpoint-group-collaborate-on-renewable-energy-insurance/ for the full article as DNA is transitioning our sustainability coverage to a standalone news site.

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