101 Digital appoints Sachin Rajat Sharma as chief commercial officer to accelerate global growth

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  • 20 decades experience in driving change in finance, payments &amp, plan
  • Originally the main product &amp, business agent at Audax Financial Technologies

101 Digital appoints Sachin Rajat Sharma as chief commercial officer to accelerate global growth

101 Digital, a next-generation supplier of electronic banking solutions enabling embedded financing, new modern banks, and the modern conversion of conventional banks, has announced the appointment of Sachin Rajat Sharma ( photograph ) as its chief commercial officer. In addition to bringing a wealth of knowledge, Shani has a proven track record for transforming businesses in Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East.

Founded in 2018 by Rana Peries and Rajiv Ellepola, 101 Digital has been at the vanguard of delivering cutting-edge banking alternatives to major financial institutions across Africa, the UK, Southeast Asia, and above. Sachin’s interview comes at a crucial time for the business as it looks to grow and strengthen its presence in these sectors.

With over two decades of experience, Sachin has led revolutionary efforts in finance, obligations, and plan. He is renowned for launching innovative solutions such as discourse, a multi-award-winning banking-as-a-service system, alongside another industry-first innovations in online banking and client engagement. Prior to joining 101 Digital, Sachin previously held the position of general goods and business officer at Audax Financial Technologies, where he co-founded the business and expanded it to provide many business customers in its first year.

In his new role, Sachin does generate 101 Digital’s global development strategy, guide market expansion, and develop partnerships with important financial institutions. His administration will focus on delivering distinguished value propositions, building high-calibre teams, and fostering innovation to change the online banking landscape.

Rana Peries, co-founder and chief product officer of 101 Digital, commented:” We are delighted to welcome Sachin to the 101 Digital family. His deep understanding of digital transformation and commercial strategy will be of a crucial role as we continue to provide financial institutions with cutting-edge solutions. Sachin’s vision perfectly fits our goal to influence the direction of banking in the future.

Rajiv Ellepola, co-founder and director of delivery, added:” Sachin’s extensive work in driving new business models for banking perfectly complements 101 Digital’s vision of enabling large-scale banking transformation. As we move into our next growth stage, we anticipate having him aboard.

Sachin said:” I am thrilled to join 101 Digital at this exciting juncture. As financial institutions embrace embedded finance and digital-first strategies, 101 Digital is uniquely positioned to lead the transformation. Working with the talented team at this company will help us bring about positive change for both our clients and their customers.

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Soul Parking raises Series A extension to fuel growth for innovative parking solutions in Indonesia

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  • Funds will power development, hiring, product upgrades, and company growth
  • Plans to enhance appearance in existing areas, enter new urban locations across Indonesia

Kenneth Darmansjah, co-founder & CEO, Soul Parking (left) and Unggul Depirianto, CTO, Soul Parking

Soul Parking, a leading park management service company transforming industrial parking facilities through systems in Indonesia, has announced the implementation of a Series A expansion round of financing co-led by AppWorks and AC Ventures, with participation from Taiwan Mobile, USPACE, and Wavemaker Ventures, the early-stage fund of Wavemaker Partners.

In a speech, the organization said the borrowing will help growth initiatives, including growth into high-density cities, enrollment, product enhancement, and marketing to enhance brand visibility and user growth. Additionally, Soul Parking intends to expand its footprint in existing areas, expand to new metropolitan areas in Indonesia, offer a wide range of aircraft types, and look into opportunities in the electric vehicle industry. Unfortunately, the company aims to lead to Indonesia’s green industrial growth by reducing gridlock, lowering emissions, improving convenience, and enhancing the overall park experience for drivers.

Soul Parking makes use of technology to modernize standard parking facilities, providing property owners and users with a quick and hassle-free electronic parking experience. Real-time data analysis and cashless payment options are integrated into its asset-light model, which improves parking users ‘ ability to use more space and generate more revenue.

For home owners, Soul Parking offers creative solutions that improve the industrial parking infrastructure, generate new revenue streams, and increase parking capacity in densely populated areas by up to eight times as much as conventional methods. For individuals, the company delivers a smooth, cashless, and convenient parking knowledge, eliminating the problems of conventional driving systems.

Soul Parking’s modern products and services include: &nbsp,

    Small bike storage: Portable multi-level park options for two-wheeled vehicles.

  • Soul Parking operating system: Cloud-based technology that digitises existing driving frameworks for both two- and four-wheeled cars, offering real-time data analysis and visible information sharing.

The company states it can transform a 60m² area into multi-level parking, significantly reducing congestion and increasing capacity. With added security, its elevated parking system provides insurance for each parked vehicle and CCTV monitoring for added security.

Since its inception, Soul Parking claims to have on boarded over 100 partners, including property owners and management companies, processing more than 20 million parking transactions annually. Its solutions are implemented in apartments, hospitals, commercial centres, recreational areas, and residential complexes, with over two million vehicles parked through its system to date.

Soul Parking raises Series A extension to fuel growth for innovative parking solutions in IndonesiaThis fundraising round highlights the immense potential within the parking industry as well as the strength of our business fundamentals and the resilience of our team. We appreciate the trust and shared vision of our investors, whose support enables us to fast-track innovation and deliver impactful solutions, positioning us to redefine urban mobility for the future”, said Kenneth Darmansjah, co-founder and CEO of Soul Parking.

By developing effective and sustainable parking options,” Soul Parking addresses a crucial issue in Indonesia’s urban landscape.” Their tech-driven approach improves the driver’s parking experience while maximizing land use and reducing congestion in densely populated cities. We are particularly impressed by Darmansjah’s commitment to using technology to address real-world problems”, said Jamie Lin, chairman and partner at AppWorks.

Lin continued,” The Soul Parking team has demonstrated execution and a thorough understanding of the mobility market. This, combined with their clear vision for the future of urban mobility, makes them an ideal partner for AppWorks. We look forward to supporting their journey as they expand their impact and change how urban mobility is defined in Indonesia and around the world.

” Parking management is a substantial sector in Indonesia. Soul Parking provides parking customers with a seamless experience while providing cost-effective, accountable services to property owners through its innovative solutions. Soul Parking operates at a scale and is well-positioned to compete effectively in this expanding market, according to Michael Soerijadji, founder and managing partner at AC Ventures, with over 20 million transactions processed and partnerships with more than 100 property owners.

” With 137 million motorcycles across Indonesia and a severe shortage of parking spaces, illegal parking has become widespread, worsening traffic congestion and causing economic losses—Jakarta alone loses approximately US$ 30 million ( RM133 million ) annually. Soul Parking’s vertical motorcycle parking system, equipped with real-time tracking, optimises land use and enhances efficiency and transparency in parking management across Indonesia. We’re proud to see the business continue to support them as they address this pressing issue and expand their services across the country, according to Paul Santos, co-founder and managing partner at Wavemaker Partners.

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Digerati50, Nobel laureate Shuji Nakamura, and CREST’s Gallium Nitride talent bet with 60x returns generated

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  • Steven DenBaar &amp, Nobel prize, Shuji Nakamura to identify software changes
  • Digerati50 like Jaffri Ibrahim play&nbsp, outsize tasks to increase Malaysia into&nbsp, Asian Digital Tiger

Dr Shuji Nakamura giving researchers guidance while visiting Universiti Malaya's GaN lab.

The 6th edition of Digital News Asia’s Digerati50 annual networking event on 10th Jan, hosted by Cyberview Sdn Bhd in Cyberjaya, welcomes a very special guest – 2014 Nobel Prize Laureate in Physics, Professor Shuji Nakamura from the University of California, Santa Barbera (UCSB ).

Due to the time difference between Los Angeles and Kuala Lumpur, Nakamura may be making pre-recorded remarks to share his thoughts on the possibilities for Malaysia in the electronics industry. Prof. Steven DenBaar, his close friend and fellow scientist, will join him on stage and be available to answer questions via video visit from the US.

A former expert at HP before going into education, DenBaar, who has over 150 patents to his name, said he has worked in Penang and visited at least 40 times thus far, and hopes to make another trip immediately.

The guest of honor for Friday’s communication may become Economy Minister, Rafizi Ramli.

As to why a little in demand Nobel Laureate is also knowledgeable of the Digerati50 and would want to talk to a group of Malaysian and Indonesian based ( not all the Digerati50 are Malay, some launched their businesses around or relocated to Malaysia ) members, effectively, we have Jaffri Ibrahim, a Digerati50 who is also CEO of CREST ( Centre for Research in Engineering, Science and Technology ) to thank for.

Jaffri placed a calculated bet on a technology called Gallium Nitride ( GaN ) in 2013 on the back of industry feedback from his board of directors and indications of support from MIDA ( Malaysian Industrial Development Authority ), based on his strong belief that Malaysian talent could be trained to become a top-notch pool of GaN researchers and engineers. Simply put, powerful government support and guidance was required. It was a quest that brought Malaysia into Nakamura’s circle.

The CREST is a surprisingly uncommon Federal Government company that wasn’t based in Kuala Lumpur but focused on architecture and creativity. The powerful silicon belt that stretched from Bayan Bayu in Penang to Kulim High Tech Park in Kedah, as ideal exemplified by the rational decision to be based in Penang, which was established in 2012.

Only the silicon habitat at the time recognized the crucial role Penang played in the world semiconductor value network. It took the pandemic to bring Penang’s place in the global price ring into the forefront.

Bull on Malaysia and Penang’s potential in an increasingly electronics reliant digital market, DenBaar’s says,” Penang is the place to get if you want to start a high-tech business in the silicon ecosystem”.

Yet Jaffri could not have anticipated the astounding effect the RM76.91 million authorities funds he managed to secure, despite his own convictions about the caliber of Malay engineers to take up the GaN problem.

With that money, Universiti Sains Malaysia in Penang and Universiti Malaya in Kuala Lumpur acquired the necessary tools and developed the skills needed for GaN laboratory. At UCSB, Nakamura sponsored 13 students to pursue their PhDs. As of 2021, the GaN skills lake that was created since 2013 includes local experts who were sent to UCSB for six-month periods. It has grown to over 70 as of 2021. More than figures, the laboratories at both colleges are also recognized for their world-class study.

A more quantifiable payback occurred in 2015 when German multinational Osram (via M&amp, A Osram since 2020 has become ams Osram ) made the decision to construct a cutting-edge LED plant in Kulim. The plant opened in Nov 2017 with an investment of €370 million ( RM1.71 billion ), with two future planned upgrades that would take the total investment to €1 billion.

The planned expansions were carried out, and the total investments are in the range of €1 billion ( RM4.6 billion ), as confirmed by an ams OSRAM executive. Given the government’s RM76.9 million cash in 2014, this may result in an indirect gain of 60x.

The decision to choose which country to discover the facility was a key factor, according to the ams OSRAM executive, who was well-versed in the process of choosing which country to find the facility in 2014. ” If you weren’t previously building this professional skill, it didn’t matter what other bonuses you were offering”, he explained.

A Digerati50 from the 2016/2017 book, Jaffri is one of 184, generally founders but with a handful of technocrats like as him, whom DNA editors have freely identified as ‘ Those who will help form Malaysia’s Digital Economy ‘ via our again in two years print and digital version of Digerati50. ( Watch out for the upcoming March edition. )

(L2R): Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital; Karamjit Singh, founder, Digital News Asia; Ramachandran Muniandy, CEO and founder, Merchantrade Asia and co-sponsor of Digerati50 Networking, and Kamarul Ariffin, CEO of Cyberview, Host for Digerati50 Networking, 2024.

Many of them are making similar outsized contributions to Malaysia’s digital economy, that Fahmy Fadzil, Minister of Communications who attended the 2023 Digerati50 networking, hoped would lead to Malaysia becoming a Digital Tiger of Asia.

Gobind Singh, Minister of Digital, who attended the 2024 Digerati50 Networking also echoed this ambition and said his ministry would work together with the Digerati50 to help develop Malaysia into an Asian Digital Tiger.

Rafizi, who is a key supporter of KL20, a statement of Malaysia’s commitment to support and grow a vibrant startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem, is undoubtedly enthusiastic about the plan to transform Malaysia into an Asian digital tiger.

Open to all Digerati50 and invited guests, the 6th Digerati50 Networking will be held on Fri at RekaScape, hosted by Cyberview.

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BidNow celebrates token listing on Hata Global and Coinstore

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  • Achievement features M’sia’s distinct utility token rules
  • pitchIN’s following key fundraising deal, Frac, now available for investment

From left: Nicholas Chong, vice president of Commercial and Product, Sam Shafie, CEO of pitchIN, Frankie Goh, CEO of BidNow and Mohamed Azahari, chairman of BidNow

pitchIN, Malaysia’s digital fundraising and investment hub, announced that its first successful token crowdfunding (TCF ) campaign, Bid Now, has successfully listed its token,$ BID, on Hata Global and Coinstore. This marks a major breakthrough for pitchIN, Bid Today, and Malaysia’s growing Web3 ecology as the first modern key approved under the Ethereum model to be listed on an exchange.

This success, in the opinion of pitchIN, underscores the merits of Malaysia’s regulatory model, which is one of the few worldwide to regulate fundraising activities using utility tokens. This opens up the door for businesses to start tokens in a legal manner. As a monitored system, pitchIN offers a safe environment for established Indonesian businesses to observe Web3 and enables local Web3 startups to increase seed and growth capital from the public in a regulatory-compliant manner.

” The listing of$ BID represents a significant milestone for regulated token crowdfunding in Malaysia. From key conceptualization to fundraising and listing,” Bid Now has provided an end-to-end road for credible businesses looking to enter Web3,” said Nicholas Chong, vice president of business and product. ” We look forward to continuing to mate with businesses and companies to establish regulatory-compliant digital currencies in Malaysia”, he added.

Investors have the unique opportunity to back modern brands while gaining both financial rewards and visible advantages from sign crowdfunding. For example,$ BID is Bid Now’s native token, designed to deliver value to its holders in several ways:

  • Power: Token holders receive benefits and rewards, including buying focus, company discounts, and a devotion reward system.
  • Security and accountability: Blockchain technology guarantees clear transactions and the supply of$ BID.
  • Return on investment ( ROI ): Potential ROI comes from capital gains made when$ BID is sold on an exchange and from community benefits like airdrops. Buyers also gain access to more active Web3 communities and quicker exits.

Investors can capitalize on potential benefits and additional benefits while supporting Bid Here’s expanding ecosystem by purchasing$ BID tokens, which are currently tradeable.

pitchIN’s following key fundraising deal, Frac, is today pre-live and available for investment. Frac gives businesses the ability to sell online ownership of exclusive assets, turning expensive products like diamonds or brand-name IP into fractionalized investments, opening up new business opportunities for both investors and customers.

To begin investing in approved Web3 offers and technologies, explore pitchIN at www. pitchin. my/token

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Maxis, UTAR forge innovative partnership to develop 5G solutions in healthcare and education  

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  • Both parties did observe feasible opportunities for deploying, utilising 5G options
  • Collaboration may expand to security, green tech &amp, bright school solutions

Prateek Pashine, Maxis chief enterprise business officer (left) and Prof. Dr Ewe Hong Tat, UTAR president

Using Maxis ‘ network infrastructure and technological prowess in addition to UTAR’s reputation as a renowned higher education institution, the two companies, Malaysia’s leading integrated telecommunications company, and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman ( UTAR ), to jointly develop 5G solutions.

Maxis stated in a statement that the two organizations would look into economically feasible ways to deploy and use 5G options with an emphasis on development in healthcare and education. Also, the partnership may expand to developing solutions in areas such as cybersecurity, clean technology, and intelligent campus initiatives, even utilising Maxis ‘ powerful network infrastructure.

In healthcare, potential 5G-enabled solutions include remote surgery (telesurgery ), advanced telemedicine, remote consultations, and real-time health monitoring. In terms of knowledge, 5G options aim to enhance the learning experience by providing immersive environments and engaging content distribution. For instance, 5G-powered augmented reality ( AR ) applications could make it possible to access lectures remotely while enhancing the user experience with multimedia content integrated into real-world settings.

The engagement was formalised at a memorandum of understanding ( MoU) filing meeting, where Prof. Dr Ewe Hong Tat, UTAR leader, and Prateek Pashine, Maxis chief business business officer, represented their respective companies.

Prof. Dr Ewe remarked,” I am happy that UTAR is collaborating with Maxis on this innovative quest to build cutting-edge 5G options. This collaboration is in line with UTAR’s determination to funding research and development that addresses pressing issues in healthcare and education. By utilizing the complementary strengths of academia and industry, we may co-create revolutionary solutions that advance societal progress and technology.

Prateek Pashine continued,” Maxis is delighted to partner with a like-minded lover like UTAR as we explore the possibilities that 5G technology has opened up.” Healthcare and education are critical areas that need future-ready thoughts, and industry-academia collaborations like this will promote development. Through Maxis Business, we aim to help 5G solutions that change healthcare delivery and education environments, making them more powerful, visible, and tailored”.

This partnership builds on earlier initiatives by Maxis Business, Maxis ‘ B2B arm, to encourage businesses in Malaysia to adopt 5G and 5G-Advanced solutions. Maxis Business remains committed to being the digital business partner of choice by offering end-to-end connectivity and connectivity-plus solutions.

UTAR selected Maxis to provide high-speed internet to its Sungai Long and Kampar campuses in 2019. Maxis provided these campuses with connectivity solutions that made it possible for UTAR to seamlessly scale bandwidth in response to much higher speed requirements as a result of the collaboration.

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From saunas to success: Lessons for Malaysia’s ecosystem from Finland’s startup & VC journey

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  • Govt-entity TEKES was big motivator to Scandinavian world’s success account
  • Malaysia on proper record, won’t take as long as Finland did to reach maturity

In the early 2000s, Finland lacked sufficient private venture capital and angel investment for early-stage startups. TEKES (since rebranded to Business Finland) provided crucial grants, loans, and investments, enabling startups to survive and grow.

From saunas to success: Lessons for Malaysia’s ecosystem from Finland's startup & VC journeyWhen my British university professor gave me a copy of” The Google Story,” twenty years ago, I began my entrepreneurial journey in Helsinki, Finland’s capital. I finished it in one sitting because I was thus captivated by it. I even wanted to own such a business. But people kept telling me:” You are not in Silicon Valley”.

They were correct when they said that Finland hardly had any private money to do high-risk, innovative businesses after the dot com bubbles burst a few years before. Additionally, there was the added problem of looking to global markets from day one because the Finnish business was so small ( only 5 million people ).

20 years after, Finland is now in the lead in terms of personal money in terms of GDP. We have seen rainbows such as Supercell, and Wolt, as well as a good network of Soonicorns quite as Iceye, Swappie. I’m pleased to discover Finland doing well, but since I’m now setting up my business in Malaysia, I can’t help but notice significant similarities between the business ecosystem there that is still developing and the one I saw 20 years earlier.
Looking back, if I was to point out a major catalyst to Finland’s success story of the last 20 years, I would not find any better example than a government-entity called TEKES ( now rebranded to Business Finland ) which would be akin to a modern day Khazanah, although not exactly a sovereign wealth fund.

TEKES, which was funded by Finnish taxpayers periodically, has previously had a significant impact on the development of the business ecosystem in Finland, contributing to a number of positive outcomes that might not have been realized without its existence.

What are some of the main efforts and effects?

1. Kickstarting the Scandinavian business ecology

Initial funding gaps filled: In the early 2000s, Finland lacked adequate private venture capital and angel funding for early-stage companies. TEKES provided critical offers, money, and purchases, enabling businesses to survive and grow.

Encouraging risk taking: By de-risking early-stage development through cash, TEKES encouraged companies to do ambitious jobs, fostering a culture of development and risk taking. Additionally, since 2010, Finland has annually observed the” National Day of Failure” on October 13 to honor the achievements of failed businesses and end the stigma that surrounds entrepreneurs who have previously failed. On this day, you’ll frequently see both recently failed and most successful groups converge on the level and treated to equal respect.

2. Enabling world victory reports

Startups like Rovio and Supercell: Companies such as Rovio ( Angry Birds ) and Supercell ( Clash of Clans ) received support from TEKES during their formative years. Without this money and assistance, their world success stories might not have been feasible.

Greater impact on industries: TEKES-supported startups helped placement Finland as a gateway for gambling and wireless technology innovation.

3. fostering a culture of innovation and individual capital

Support for education: Through funding initiatives like Aalto Entrepreneurship Society, which afterwards founded Slush, TEKES created a new era of tech-savvy business owners.

Innovative mindset: It encouraged Estonian citizens to view entrepreneurship as a practical and prominent career path when formerly working for a huge multinational was the preferred career path.

4. Development of supporting buildings

Startup Sauna and other accelerators and incubators: TEKES provided funding for the establishment of accelerators and incubators, which afterwards became crucial for connecting Scandinavian startups to international networks.

Ecosystem Growth: TEKES ‘ investments in local innovation ecosystems have had a direct and indirect impact on efforts like Slush, one of the largest startup activities ever held worldwide.

5. Attracting international funding

International attention: By nurturing companies with high-growth possible, TEKES made Finland attractive to foreign investors, bringing much-needed walk funds into the ecosystem.

Scaling internationally: TEKES’ programs like the Young Innovative Companies ( NIY ) helped Finnish startups expand globally, making Finland a recognized innovation hub.

Fun truth: my first business, Muxlim, was a member of the TEKES Young Innovative Businesses program, which eventually won the President of Finland’s nomination for internationalization. It enabled us to consider international from first on and lift our ambition&nbsp, to&nbsp, the&nbsp, potential.

6. societal impact and sustainability

Green technology command: TEKES invested considerably in green technologies, making Finland a chief in areas like bioeconomy and solar energy solutions. Malaysia needs to find the strengths-matching niches and work with them until they are powerful worldwide.

Advances with social effect: By supporting education and health technologies, TEKES promoted enhancements that improved the quality of life in Finland and worldwide. Akin to Khazanah’s Dana Impak.

There were so many beneficial outcomes that might not have been possible without TEKES.

Allow me list four of them.

Avoidance of Brain Drain: Without financing and habitat support, Scandinavian talent does had moved abroad in search of better opportunities. Our guest speaker there introduced his talk by saying,” I’m assuming you are all looking to relocate to Singapore eventually,” during a recent trip there with other Malaysian startups.

Gaming Industry Boom: TEKES ‘ funding provided a foundation for Finland’s thriving gaming sector.

Technology Transfer: Without TEKES ‘ assistance, collaborations between academia and industry might not have been as successful.

Innovation Culture: Finland’s transformation into an innovation-driven economy owes much to TEKES ‘ ability to fund high-risk, high-reward projects.

The strategic investments made by TEKES helped to cement Finland’s position as a leader in global innovation, demonstrating its worth as a pillar of the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Meanwhile, in Malaysia…

Looking back over the past few weeks in Malaysia, I believe there is a missing message in the national conversation. No one is discussing why every country needs to get ready for an innovation-driven future. The job market is about to be drastically disrupted by the advent of AI, automation, and robotics. There will be unheard challenges for people all over the world, not the least of which is the shrinking job market, combined with the overburdened public sector in many nations around the world and the threats of climate change.

Entrepreneurship is key to creating jobs and sustaining in the face of job insecurity, climate displacement, geopolitical tensions, and technological disruption.

Of course, private capital is the ideal driver for innovation. But, based on Securities Comission Malaysia data, early-stage investing has retreated in Malaysia between 2011-2021, while in Finland it grew from US$ 112 million in 2011 to US$ 1.2 billion by 2021.

Sometimes, private capital is too risk-averse, so the government or government linked investment funds need to fill the gap until the ecosystem is stabilized. Nascent ecosystems don’t play by the same rules as developed ecosystems, hence initiatives like Khazanah Dana Impak, Khazanah’s Jelawang Capital venture capital fund of funds initiatives as well as Kumpulan Wang Persaraan ( Diperbadankan ) ( KWAP )’s Dana Perintis ( RM500 million for venture capital funds and direct investments ) and Dana Pemacu ( RM6 billion for private equity ) are critical to provide badly needed growth funds for startups across various stages.

Yes, early-stage investing is risky, and there will be some failures. In light of the changes that our world and the world’s community are facing, the risk of not investing is even greater. So in times like this, we need to be armed with strong ambition, infectious positivity and resourceful execution. I can only say that I think Malaysia is on the right track and that it will take less time to mature than Finland.

Mohamed” Mo” Tarek El-Fatatry is the Soonicorn Collective’s founder, the host of the Soonicorn Nation Podcast, and the founder of ERTH.

Dr. V Sivapalan contributed to the article. He has a Ph. D in Venture Capital from University of Edinburgh, Scotland, is Co-Chairman of Soonicorn Collective and Adjunct Professor in the School of Science and Technology, Sunway University. He is the author of the book Supercharge Your Startup Valuation. Visit his website for more of his writings.

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Pikom champions Malaysian talent and innovation on the global stage

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  • Achievements emphasize Malaysia’s various talent pool
  • Urges M’sian skill to add international competitions for entry, mentoring &amp, funding

WCIT 2024 Armenia. (Left) - Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, CEO of TM Research & Development with Loo Chuan Boon, COO of SIDEC. (Right) - Yanni Xinyan Ching, co-Founder  Entomal Biotech, Khairul Anwar Mohamad Zaki, founder, Pandai Education with WITSA chairman Dr. Sean Siah.

The National Tech Association of Malaysia, or Pikom, has announced that in 2024, Malaysian skills and firms have shown innovation and excellence. Through proper affiliations and involvement in prominent international competitions, the company has positioned Malaysia as a gateway of cutting-edge systems, innovation, and skill.

Alex Liew, president of Pikom, stated:” This is truly a testament to Malaysian businesses and people making ripples in the global technology industry. Pikom is pleased to give them the opportunity to thrive and be proud of their accomplishments.

At the WITSA Excellence Awards 2024 held in Armenia this history October, Malaysia achieved major successes, including:

  • Selangor Information Technology &amp, Digital Economy Corporation receiving the Digital Opportunity/Inclusion Award ( Public Sector ) for its impactful SME Digitalisation programmes.
  • For their mobile intelligent network diagnostic system, Telekom Research &amp, Development Sdn Bhd won the Digital Transformation of the Year ( Private Sector/NGO ) award.

Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, CEO of TM Research &amp, Development, expressed her delight in the accomplishment:” This medal reflects our determination to innovation and the transformational power of technology in driving the modern economy and solving real-world challenges”. She also emphasized the worth of WCIT 2024, calling it an amazing software to network with top international technology companies, display innovations, and advance capabilities.

The event even hosted the second WITSA World Cup, a world scale-up pitching competition for which Indonesian businesses Pandai Education and Entomal Biotech were nominated by Pikom after being chosen to win the top two places, defeating 14 other challengers from all over the world. This program provided great global market entry, mentorship, and exposure to business capital for participants. &nbsp,

Entomal Biotech’s Yanni Xinyan Ching commented,” Making it to the last two was a big win for Malaysia as well as for us. Malaysia’s rise as a major technology and innovation hub is evidenced by the recognition of our innovations on such a global scale. And we owe so much to the habitat that has nurtured us—our companies, coaches, and great give support”.

At the ASOCIO Digital Summit in Tokyo, Indonesian technical experts, agencies, and corporations nominated by Pikom were recognised with the esteemed ASOCIO DX Honours for their outstanding contributions to modern change. Award beneficiaries included:

  • Digital state award from the Ministry of Digital
  • Heitech Padu Berhad won the Heitech Padu Berhad Digital Government Award.
  • National Cybersecurity Agency ( NACSA ) – Cybersecurity Award
  • Glocomp Systems ( M ) Sdn Bhd – Cybersecurity Award
  • Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation ( MDEC ) – Public/Private Partnership Award
  • Cyberview Sdn. Bhd. – Smart City Award
  • Outstanding Tech Company Award from VSTECS Berhad
  • EdTech Award from PEOPLElogy Development Sdn Bhd
  • Ms. Catherine Lian of IBM – Women In Tech Award

These honors demonstrate Malaysia’s ability to use modern technology to advance both economically and socially.

In November, at the APICTA Awards 2024 held in Brunei, Malaysia’s contenders continued their successful run, with five firms securing top-three runs and two others earning Merit honours:

  • Winner of Artificial Intelligence Category: myQuickHR Sdn Bhd for HR Avenue ( AI-powered Talent Acquisition solution ).
  • Second Runner-Up for Digital Marketing/Advertising and Marketplaces: CARSOME.
  • Second Runner-Up for Agriculture, Supply and Sustainability: Meraque Services Sdn Bhd for Hybrid AGV- RACE.
  • Following Runner-Up for AI: NEXLAW AI.
  • Second Runner-Up for Senior Student Projects-Solutions: Wesley Methodist School Penang ( International ) for Read Right.
  • Merit for Senior Student Projects-Applications: Foon Yew High School for Obstacle Detection System.
  • Merit for Junior Student Projects: SJKC Yuk Chai for SmartCycle BioFuel.
  • These achievements reflect Malaysia’s different and powerful talent pool, spanning from primary school students to scale-ups, people organizations, and private organisations. Additionally, they highlight the country’s exceptional use of technology in resolving problems in the real world.

A 2025 Call for Action
As it looks ahead to 2025, Pikom invites Malaysian talents, businesses, and innovators to seize the opportunity to participate in global competitions. These platforms not only recognise excellence but also provide unparalleled access to international markets, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

The success of Malaysian businesses and talents on the global stage demonstrates the country’s leadership in technology and innovation. ” Pikom continues to be steadfast in its mission to promote Malaysia’s capabilities and encourage greater participation in international events,” Liew said.

Left to Right: Ong Kian Yew, Pikom, Wan Zailani, Heitech Padu, Stan Singh, ASOCIO chairman-elect, David Wong, ASOCIO past chairman, Catherine Lian, IBM, Anwar Udzir, deputy head of Mission, Malaysian Embassy in Tokyo, Ong Chin Seong, Pikom Immediate past chairman, Soong Jan Hsiung, VSTECS, Alex Liew, Pikom chairman, Kamarul Ariffin, Cyberview and Shafinaz Salim, Cyberview at the ASOCIO Digital Summit Tokyo

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Mosti unveils Startup ASEAN, bridging ecosystem gaps across region

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  • Empower companies, connect innovators, and develop a growing ecosystem
  • Startup-friendly policies, improve ecosystem readiness, generate effective collaboration

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle with Chang Lih Kang, minister of Science, Technology and Innovation at the soft launch of Startup ASEAN.

The Soft Launch of Startup ASEAN, a platform that aims to position ASEAN members as key players in the global startup landscape, was announced by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation ( MOSTI ) and Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd. The program was officiated by Chang Lih Kang, secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation, during the Malaysia-China Summit 2024 held next week

Startup ASEAN is inviting companies and habitat lovers from all ASEAN nations to meet the system forward of its official release in Q2 2025. Companies can now register their attention at website. startup-asean. nonprofit and be part of the state’s second jump in innovation.

Cradle has been given the task of leading the ASEAN Startup Initiative ( ASI) within the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite as Malaysia prepares to take office of ASEAN in 2025. This initiative highlights Malaysia’s commitment to bolstering the regional startup ecosystem, aligning with the nation’s Priority Economic Deliverables ( PEDs ) 2025 for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).

The program aims to promote startup-friendly policies, promote habitat preparation among ASEAN member states, and encourage meaningful collaborations to foster regional synergies and partnerships.

The second program under the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite is a program curated by a work force from all 10 ASEAN Member States: Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Chang Lih Kang, Minister of MOSTI, emphasised,” Business ASEAN is designed to encourage and promote science, engineering, and innovation within the ASEAN startup ecosystem, serving as a gateway to the vivid ASEAN startup community. Through this program, we aim to empower companies, connect entrepreneurs, and develop a growing ecosystem that drives provincial growth and innovation”.

Describing Startup ASEAN as more than just a digital system, Chang added,” It is a testament to our collective responsibility to nurturing creativity, strengthening engagement, and building a solid foundation for modern advancement”.

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle, said,” As Malaysia’s primary level company for the company habitat, Cradle is pleased to direct Startup ASEAN. This system serves as a catalyst for regional cooperation and creativity, enabling startups to grow and promote sustainable economic growth in the area.

Through a phased approach, he said Cradle will introduce dynamic programmes, including regional hackathons targeting deep tech sectors such as Artificial Intelligence ( AI), sustainability, and climate tech. Also, the Startup ASEAN Summit in 2019 will highlight regional innovation and open up new markets for startups.

” The establishment of Startup ASEAN under Malaysia’s Chairmanship is a significant step in strengthening the region’s vibrant startup ecosystem, which currently boasts over 11, 000 startups and an ecosystem value of US$ 131.2 billion ( RM589.1 billion ). With ASEAN’s GDP projected to reach US$ 4.5 trillion ( RM20.2 trillion ) by 2030, the region remains a dynamic hub for innovation, offering vast opportunities for companies and investors alike”, said Satvinder Singh, Deputy Secretary General for ASEAN Economic Community.

” Startup ASEAN may be essential in connecting tech companies across the region, empowering members, enriching the ecosystem, and bridging ASEAN’s local and global network with the complete support of all 10 associate state”, said Dr Kanchana Wanichkorn, Director of Sectoral Development Directorate for ASEAN Economic Community.

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Every home deserves access to clean water

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Every home deserves access to clean water

Heineken Malaysia Berhad ( Heineken Malaysia ) has long been a devoted supporter of neighborhood communities and has made a strong contribution to empowerment and development. The brewer has spent over 30 years promoting different groups, and he continues to promote significant change in Malaysia by funding initiatives aimed at raising the standard of living for those in need. &nbsp,

Fostering group resilience

Heineken Cares is a program run by Heineken Malaysia that is geared toward improving areas in need and in line with its Brew a Better World 2030 strategy to promote positive effect and help create a brighter, more green coming up. &nbsp,

Food aid and essential care items were first distributed at the top of the epidemic in 2021 to help famine-stricken areas and crisis patients.

The baker responded to the call for immediate humanitarian assistance for the Sabah communities when devastating storms struck the towns of Kota Belud, Penampang, and Papar. Heineken Cares collaborated with local television station KupiKupi FM to provide necessary food items to occupants who had lost their means of livelihood.

In 2022, the program switched from providing short-term food assistance to launching group farming initiatives that supported longer-term capacity building for local communities.

Partnership with Sokong

Heineken Cares 2023, a group effect program aimed at strengthening community endurance in the face of changing social and economic problems, was co-sponsored by Heineken Malaysia and Sokong by Malaysiakini in December 2023. Through the program, five companion organisations- Hopes Malaysia, Hope Place Kuching, Soroptimist International Region of Malaysia, Ferris Wheel Organisation, and Yellow House KL- were selected to employ projects in the areas of foodstuff security, community farming, as well as access to clean water and green electricity.

Every home deserves access to clean waterRenuka Indrarajah ( pic ), Corporate Affairs &amp, Legal director of Heineken Malaysia, shared,” We recognise that meaningful change happens through collaboration. By working hand-in-hand with our partners and populations, we are able to make a profound impact on underrepresented communities. By investing in green group efforts, we go beyond addressing the urgent needs of the community, it paves the way to build resilient neighborhoods”.

Hopes Malaysia- making a lasting change

One of the NGO colleagues working with Heineken Malaysia is Kota Kinabalu-based Hopes Malaysia, which works with the poor rural area in Sabah. The organization, which was established in 2016, aims to give these societies the tools they need to break the cycle of poverty.

Remote Sabah populations are plagued by a typical issue: lack of reliable water sources and access to public water sources. Farmers who rely on uneven rainwater and hill streams for their livelihoods find this problem especially challenging. Hopes Malaysia recognized this need and took action to improve water systems and give producers a reliable water source.

Hopes Malaysia’s first enterprise was the Gravity Water Project, through which they properly constructed seven gravity-fed water methods, including 30km of pipes. These systems deliver clean water to remote villages in Kota Belud, positively impacting over 8, 000 rural residents. Additionally, the team empowered local farmers by providing training to maintain and repair the water systems, ensuring a reliable water supply for future generations. &nbsp,

Every home deserves access to clean water

Farmers in the Kota Belud villages have since successfully grown a variety of local fruits and vegetables, enabling them to sell their produce and generate a steady income to help support their families for the long term. &nbsp,

Hopes Malaysia also made a contribution by teaching rural farmers how to raise fish and poultry to provide nutritious meals for their families. The community is now able to sustainably harvest 70 kg of fish per month and collect 60 chicken eggs every day, helping them continue to support their livelihoods.

Heineken Cares x Hopes Malaysia

Heineken Malaysia’s partnership with Hopes Malaysia started in 2021 through the Heineken Cares programme during the Covid-19 pandemic. More than 240 families and care centers received fresh food aid from farmers from the Kota Belud project through this initiative. In addition, the collaboration helped farmers by increasing their monthly incomes by up to 50 % during the difficult time.

The” Sustainable Gravity Water Project for Food Security Collaboration” project was started in Kota Belud in 2023 to assist the remote and impoverished Kampung Pinolobuh. The project, which was carried out in collaboration with Heineken Cares, aimed to upgrade the village’s gravity-fed water system to provide clean water and promote sustainable farming to improve long-term food security. The village’s piping was installed by the community at a 5 km uphill natural water source.

Every home deserves access to clean water

Families have successfully grown leafy vegetables for their own consumption thanks to a reliable water supply for their farms and the knowledge, tools, and skills acquired through workshops and community training. Surplus harvests are sold locally at Hopes Malaysia’s Gerai Tamu Kita vegetable stall and the Kota Belud community.

Next-phase plans

Hopes Malaysia is currently focusing on repairing and reconstructing the degraded decades-old gravity water system in rural Kampung Nagarai Tuguson in Kota Belud, with the assistance of Heineken Malaysia and Sokong, through Heineken Cares 2024.

Every home deserves access to clean water

More than 40 underprivileged families will have access to clean water at home by the start of 2025 through this collaborative initiative. An empowered community with the skills, knowledge and tools for lasting benefits”, said Aaron Bosuang, public relations executive for Hopes Malaysia.

This would give families more opportunities to work toward better futures where all of their fundamental needs are met.

” This is yet another step for sustainable development because many rural neighborhood families still lack basic necessities like clean water. Hopes Malaysia will continue to work hard to sustainably assist Sabah’s rural population in breaking the vicious cycle of rural poverty, he added.

Every home deserves access to clean water

Transformed lives: Voices of beneficiaries&nbsp,Every home deserves access to clean water

” It is a great accomplishment for me to be a part of the Kampung Kiau Taburi gravity water project led by Hopes Malaysia and Heineken Malaysia,” said one project manager. All the hard work needed for this project is worth it because of the daily effects it has had on my family and community. Stefban ( pic ), leader of the Kampung Kiau Taburi community project,” We used to be a village that struggled and fought for clean water every day.”

” I started my journey with Hopes Malaysia as a project beneficiary during the Covid-19 pandemic. My family was able to survive that difficult time thanks to the sustainable initiatives. Because of those projects, our lives are better. My wife and I currently work for Hopes Malaysia to directly aid rural Kota Belud communities, bringing about positive change for all involved. Efandi, a former beneficiary of Hopes Malaysia’s ground team, and former beneficiary,” I hope for a sustainable future where all Sabah families can have the basic needs to improve their lives.”

Every home deserves access to clean waterMy top priority is to make my family’s life better. I volunteered during the Kampung Kiau Taburi project, and am very thankful for the results of our community’s efforts. I used to wait for water every day and wait for it to arrive, but now I can use it whenever I need it at home to cook for my family, wash my kids ‘ clothes, or wash our clothes. I don’t have to worry about our water finishing. We can use this clean water for years to come”, Malim ( pic ), Kampung Kiau Taburi beneficiary

How you can make a lasting difference

Heineken Malaysia continues to collaborate with Sokong to help the efforts of Hopes Malaysia in the new phase of its Heineken Cares initiative in keeping with its commitment to community support.

You can also contribute to Hopes Malaysia’s efforts to improve the lives of rural Sabahans who are underrepresented. By contributing via the Sokong platform, you can do this. For every RM10 donated, Heineken Malaysia will add RM40 to amplify the impact of your support. Join this meaningful cause today by visiting https ://sokong .org/campaigns/heineken-cares-2024.

To learn more about Heineken Malaysia’s sustainability efforts, visit Heineken Malaysia’s official website or SPARK Foundation’s official website.

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Gentari and Mastercard Collaborate on EV Adoption Initiative

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  • Companies sign an MoU to examine online payment options for charging electric vehicles
  • Partnership aims to support Malaysia’s conservation targets and lower carbon mobility framework

Gentari and Mastercard Collaborate on EV Adoption Initiative

Through its subsidiary, Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd and Mastercard have made an announcement to collaborate to promote the adoption of electric vehicles ( EV ) in Asia Pacific. The two firms signed a Memorandum of Understanding on December 17, 2024, to discover possibilities in advertising, marketing, and online payment options for EV charging.

Collaboration Facts

To encourage inclusive EV implementation in public transport and support carbon reduction efforts, the partnership aims to implement stable and improved digital payment solutions. Gentari, a fresh strength options service, operates a system of EV charging stations across Malaysia, Thailand, and India.

Shah Yang Razalli, assistant CEO of Gentari and CEO of Gentari Green Mobility, stated:” Mastercard’s skills in modern online payment solutions that generate sustainable and inclusive development aligns with Gentari’s eyesight of leveraging technology to improve efficiency and customer experiences. Through Gentari Go, we provide smooth access to clean energy options – from household thermal to natural freedom, including cross-border EV wandering. We’re excited to look into how we can connect more people and communities as we strive to be the region’s most valuable lover for efficient freedom solutions because of Mastercard’s innovative payment systems and extensive reach.

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