Brands: Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation

Sidec’s ECM Awards 2025 saw participants rake in RM158mil in sales—here’s the top 10 brands

[This is a sponsored article with Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).]

Since its inception back in 2016, Sidec’s Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant (Top ECM) Awards has always been about celebrating the success stories of local businesses in the digital space. And for good reason, as ecommerce contributes an estimated 36.7% to Malaysia’s GDP.

Over the past decade, the Top ECM Awards has empowered more than 2,000 high-impact entrepreneurs, generating over RM500 million in total sales and processing close to 10 million orders nationwide.

2025 marked the 10th running of the Top ECM Awards, seeing 511 participants out of 1,060 applicants.

But it wasn’t just about the RM250,000 prize pool, the 2025 Top ECM Awards also hosted training sessions on data analytics, livestream optimisation, and creator training for participating merchants.

One of the most evident trends from this year’s Top ECM 2025 programme was the growing reliance on livestreaming and affiliate marketing as key drivers of sales and customer engagement. 

Many participating merchants leveraged TikTok Shop aggressively, integrating real-time selling with creative content, which helped them connect with audiences more authentically and instantly convert interest into purchases.

All in all, the end result was RM158 million in sales collectively generated over the course of the campaign. 

The winners of ECM 2025 were selected based on several criteria which included:

• Overall sales performance during the campaign
• Level of engagement in training sessions
• Participation in activities like the TikTok Shop “Livestream Battle”
• Overall brand growth and visibility

With that, here are the 10 brands who came out on top.

1. Desince Sdn. Bhd.

Finishing third place in ECM 2024, Desince returned in 2025 as the 10th ECM Awards’ grand prize winner.

Founded back in 2017 from a small rented room, the company is a wholesale retailer for fashion products. It features an extensive catalogue ranging from sports and formal wear to shoes and accessories.

Now serving over 100,000 customers on a monthly basis, Desince particularly prides itself on affordability. Aside from its walk-in boutique at Sungai Kapar Indah, Klang, the brand has a strong focus on TikTok Shop, Shopee, and Lazada.

According to Sidec, Desince hosts daily livestreams, engages in affiliate partnerships, and creative content to fuel its growth. Their advice? “Let data lead,” and “Start small, move fast.”

Desince took home RM10,000 for its victory.

2. NFH Boutique Gallery Sdn. Bhd.

Founded by siblings, NFH Boutique Gallery grew from a family venture to a multi-channel clothing brand specialising in traditional Malay clothing for women. 

The twist, however, is that their designs are meant to be more contemporary, without sacrificing modesty and comfort.

For the Top ECM campaign, NFH Boutique Gallery employed three main tactics for their operations. These were strategic livestreaming during promotion periods, offering bundling discounts, and collaborating with creators and micro-influencers to drive organic traction and brand trust.

Sidec noted that these strategies increased traffic and helped maintain sales momentum even after the festive season. 

As the first runner up, the company won RM8,000 for their efforts. Their advice to other entrepreneurs is to understand your audience and be ready to adapt.

3. Armila Berhad

Armila Berhad finds its origins in 2018 where it was founded by one “Kak Ell,” suffering from skin pigmentation issues since childhood.

Under it are beauty and hijab brands Kak Ell and Keklaa, which offer both skincare products and hijabs.

As second runner up, Armila Berhad was awarded RM5,000.

4. Masdora Jewellery (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.

Masdora Jewellery’s name is made up from the “mas” in “emas” and “dora,” the Greek word for gift. And as its name implies, it indeed specialises in gold jewellery.

The company was founded in 2020 during the pandemic, with its focus on gold stemming from the fact that it was a safe asset for investment at a time where the economy was volatile. 

After starting as an online business, the brand later opened its first physical store in Penang in 2021 and Gombak in 2024. 

During the Top ECM campaign, the brand noted that building consumer trust over livestreaming was key to their success. “As gold is a high value item, customers need to have high trust to purchase online,” Masdora Jewellery shared.

The company won RM2,000 alongside the other finalists below.

5. Hulmers Malaysia Sdn. Bhd.

Based in Shah Alam, Hulmers is a local household appliance brand with products ranging from flasks to air purifiers and stoves.

They are especially active on TikTok where their best video currently sits at 2.7 million views.

6. Allure Exclusive (Iqbal & Hirani Sons Sdn. Bhd.)

Allure Exclusive is a baju kurung brand under Iqbal & Hirani Sons.

They are particularly active on TikTok Shop where Sidec noted them to be “top seller” during Raya 2023.
However, they are not exclusive to TikTok and can be found on Shopee as well.

7. HETCH (In & Ex Holdings Sdn. Bhd.)

The second appliance company in the top 10, Hetch is part of In & Ex Holdings, a group of companies that’s been around since 1994.

Hetch’s products in particular include vacuums, kitchen appliances such as ovens and air fryers, air purifiers, and weighing scales, just to name a few.

8. IGL Coatings (Ominent Sdn. Bhd.)

For those unfamiliar, ceramic coating is a chemical polymer solution that’s applied to vehicle exteriors to protect paint from damage, usually made for cars.

This is IGL Coatings’ bread and butter.

With distributors in the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Middle East, the company’s lineup also extends to the marine and industrial industry.

A particular highlight of their products is their low to zero-VOC nature, which essentially means that they contain less harmful chemicals than usual coatings or paints.

9. Charms International Sdn. Bhd.

Charms’ founder, Nur Bashirah Hussin, started her entrepreneurship journey operating out of a car in schools.

She would go on to start Charms in 2012 whilst still working as an economics lecturer at the Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Shah Alam.

The business itself is a women’s cosmetic and skincare company that’s halal-certified.

10. Eijal Collection

And rounding out the top 10 is Eijal Collection, a carpet company in Seremban.

Their offerings include velvet carpets and prayer mats, with the company having made quite a name for itself on TikTok where they’ve amassed 371,300 followers.

Paving the way

In a white paper by Blackbox Research released on December 31, 2024, it was found that Malaysia ranked second in Southeast Asia in terms of regional ecommerce performance.

And reflecting government support for the continued growth of this industry, the 2025 Top ECM Awards was graced with the presence of YAB Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari, YB Ng Sze Han, and Tuan Haji Ts. Saipolyazan M. Yusop.

“Sidec is grateful for the continued support and collaboration from a diverse group of stakeholders who have been instrumental in the success of the 10th Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards,” said the company.

Government backing aside, a special shoutout was additionally given to AFFIN, the “Strategic Banking Partner” for this year’s running of the ECM awards.

There was also TikTok Shop who facilitated their five-day “livestream battle” as well as Dattel Asia and Business Synergy who welcomed ECM 2025 merchants for visits and provided business insights.

Through celebrating the success stories of Malaysian ecommerce brands, the ultimate hope is to inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

A spark of inspiration, after all, can go a long way. Perhaps 10, 20 years down the line, the next one standing at the top step of the ECM podium will be someone who looked at one of its past winners and thought to give it a try.

• Learn more about Sidec here.
• Read other articles we’ve written about Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: This biz helps brands in M’sia reach cities & kampungs with its 38k+ retail network

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Malaysia’s semiconductor industry is ramping up, here are the companies that are hiring now

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

With the rise of generative artificial intelligence (AI), growing demand for the Internet of Things (IoT), as well as electric vehicles (EVs), there’s now more need for advanced chips.

It’s great news for Malaysia as we’re the sixth largest exporter of semiconductors, with the industry accounting for 40% of the nation’s export output. We currently command 13% of the global market for semiconductor packaging, assembly, and testing. 

But a key challenge the industry faces is a shortage in skilled talents and lack of research and development (R&D). Without these, we’ll start to lose our competitiveness on the global stage.

This is where the Malaysia Semiconductor Recruitment Day 2024 comes in. Organised by Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), the inaugural event saw over 2,000 attendees and 3,000 job screenings for 25 companies.

But don’t fret if you missed the event. Here is a list of several leading Malaysian companies in the electrical and electronics (E&E) industry with job openings. 

Semiconductor companies

1. ViTrox

ViTrox Corporation Berhad (ViTrox) is a leading global manufacturer of automated vision inspection systems. Established in 2000 and listed in 2004, ViTrox exports its products to over 24 countries. 

Notably, it has been recognised on Forbes Asia’s Best Under A Billion list for three consecutive years (2021-2023), showcasing its resilience amid global challenges such as inflation and rising funding costs.

In 2020, ViTrox launched ViTrox Academy to provide technical and soft skills training. Following this, in January 2023, it introduced ViTrox College, offering diploma programmes in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, and Electronic Engineering to bridge the gap between academia and industry. 

Naturally, ViTrox is on the lookout for fresh graduates to join their growing team.

Available positions:

• Executive Assistant
• Technical Recruiter
• Software Application Engineer
• R&D Mechanical Design Engineer
• Technical Support Engineer
• Research Development Software Engineer
• Circuit Design Engineer

Check them out here.

2. SkyeChip

SkyeChip is a Malaysia-based design company founded in 2019, specialising in Intellectual Property (IP) and Integrated Circuit (IC) solutions for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing. 

Their team includes industry veterans with over 15 years of experience from companies like Intel and Motorola, and they hold more than 80 US patents.

The company is also collaborating with universities like Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Malaysia Perlis (UniMAP), Multimedia University (MMU), Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), and Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) to develop industry-ready talent.

“Many home-grown Malaysian companies are already in the global semiconductor ecosystem and well-placed to move up the global value chain,” the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) stated, with SkyeChip being one of them.

Available position:

• Senior Static Timing Analysis Engineer
• Logic Design Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Design Verification Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Circuit Design Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Physical Design Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Custom Layout Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Software Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Design Automation Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Silicon Package Design Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• DFT/DFD/DFM Engineers (senior/intermediate/junior)
• Intern

Check them out here.

3. QES

Founded in 1991, QES Group has grown into a leading integrated solution provider, specialising in manufacturing, distribution, and engineering services for inspection, testing, measurement, and automated handling equipment. The company focuses on offering customer-driven solutions to meet diverse industry needs.

QES operates across various sectors, including semiconductor, automotive, electronics, petrochemical, R&D, and renewable energy. 

With over 400 experienced staff and strong global partnerships, they provide tailored solutions, having installed over 13,800 pieces of equipment in ASEAN markets.

QES is committed to continuous innovation, sustainability, and digitalisation, aligning with its corporate mission and ESG goals.

Available positions:

• Service Engineer (E&E, mechanical, or mechatronic engineering)
• Service Engineer (chemistry or chemical engineering)
• Service Engineer (XRF Product)
• Software Engineer (computer science or information technology)
• Senior Electrical Engineer
• Senior System Engineer
• Senior Mechanical Engineer
• Production Supervisor (semiconductor machine assembly)
• Production Assistant (semiconductor machine assembly)
• Technician
• Assistant Lab Manager/Senior Chemist (analysis and laboratory testing)
• Assistant Sales Manager/Sales Manager
• Sales Engineer 
• Senior Sales Executive
• Assistant Business Development Engineer

Check them out here.

4. SyMMiD

SyMMiD specialises in Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) development and custom IC design services. With world-class expertise in analogue, digital, mixed-signal, and high-voltage IC design, the company provides tailored ASIC solutions for the automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

They provide flexible engagement options, where clients can either outsource entire chip designs or focus on specific aspects. This is supported by both onsite or offsite services. 

Their global client base spans China, Taiwan, the UK, Germany, and the US.

Available positions:

• Place & Route Engineer
• Custom Layout Design Engineer
• Analogue Mixed Signal IC Design Engineer
• Digital IC Design Verification Engineer

Check them out here.

5. STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics is a global leader in semiconductor technology, delivering energy-efficient solutions that power everyday electronics. From electric cars and smart homes to mobile devices and IoT products, ST’s technologies enable smarter and more sustainable living. 

Headquartered in Germany, they have offices in Malaysia, China, the US, Brazil, Algeria, and Finland.

Their extensive portfolio supports sectors such as smart mobility, power and energy, and cloud-connected autonomous systems.

With 14 manufacturing sites across Europe and Asia—seven for wafer fabrication and seven for assembly and testing—ST is well-positioned to drive the semiconductor industry forward.

Available positions:

• Intern 
• BGA Engineer
• Process Engineer
• Global Credit Risk Manager
• People Service Specialist (payroll)
• Equipment Engineer
• Central R&D Automation Engineer
• RMR Network Engineer
• Senior Maintenance Engineer
• Site Information Security Office 
• Process Development Technician

There are many more positions being offered, check them out here.

6. MaiStorage

Founded in June 2024 in Puchong, Selangor, MaiStorage Technology (MaiStorage) is a new IC startup and the principal hub for the Taiwan founded, Phison Electronics Corporation (established 2000). 

Founded by Dato KS Pua, the company is a subsidiary of Phison’s Pascari (Enteprise Data Storage), aiDAPTIV+ (an LLM solution), and automotive solutions, while developing local engineering capabilities.

MaiStorage aims to drive innovation in NAND storage technology by eventually designing and manufacturing advanced NAND controller ICs and storage modules for data centres, AI, and the automotive industry. 

Did you know: NAND storage is a type of non-volatile memory that retains data without power, commonly used in SSDs, USB drives, and memory cards.

Source: TechTarget

The company leverages Phison’s 24 years of expertise in NAND controller technology, ensuring a solid foundation for success and growth in the storage sector.

Available positions:

• AI Engineer
• Firmware Design Engineer

Check them out here.

7. Infineon Technologies

Infineon Technologies (Infineon) is a global leader in semiconductors for power systems and IoT, driving decarbonisation and digitalisation through solutions for energy efficiency, clean mobility, and smart IoT. 

With over 58,000 employees from more than 100 countries, the company offers a supportive work environment, work-life balance, and long-term career growth. 

According to the company’s annual report In 2023, Infineon generated over €16 billion (~RM75 billion) in revenue and operates 69 R&D and 17 manufacturing locations globally. Key sectors include automotive, industrial power, and connected secure systems.

Available positions:

• Graduate Technical Programme
• Sales Operations Competence Centre Graduate Trainee
• Staff Specialist Data Excellence
• Senior Staff Specialist MES Expert
• Senior Engineer Component Verification
• Industrial Trainee HR Talent Acquisition
• Business Intelligence Data Warehouse Developer
• Senior Engineer Failure Analysis
• Senior Specialist SharePoint
• Principal Engineer Mask Design
• Senior Engineer Factory Integration

There are many more positions being offered, check them out here.

IT & robotics companies

8. AppAsia

Formed in 1984, AppAsia Berhad (previously known as Extol MSC Berhad) is a Malaysian mobile content and applications company. 

Their services include e-invoicing, blockchain solutions, an ecommerce platform, mobile apps, mobile games, and cloud solutions. Currently, the company operates multiple ecommerce websites and has seven subsidiaries, including AppAsia Studio and AppAsia Mall.

One service that AppAsia is better known for is its eConfirm.my digital platform developed together with Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA). It’s an industry-wide electronic bank confirmation platform used by 29 banks, such as Malayan Banking Berhad and OCBC Bank.

The firm was listed on Bursa Malaysia’s ACE market in 2006 and remains a publicly listed company to this day. More recently, it entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Taiwan’s CMSC, Inc. to set up a joint venture entity for integrated circuit design in Malaysia.

Available positions:

• Web Designer
• Project Consultant
• System Administrator
• Technical Lead
• Business Development Executive (IT Solutions)
• Graphic Design Intern
• Business Intern

Check them out here.

9. HCL Technologies

HCL Technologies (HCL Tech) is a global technology company with over 219,000 employees in 60 countries, offering digital, engineering, cloud, and AI-driven solutions. 

With a portfolio spanning technology services and products, HCLTech serves key industries like financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, telecom, retail, and public services. 

For the year ending June 2024, the company reported US$13.4 billion in revenue in FY24. HCLTech is well-positioned to help businesses thrive as generative AI reshapes industries.

Available positions:

• Network Engineer
• Korean or Japanese Language Trainer
• Desk-side Support Technician
• Dotnet Developer
• Solutions Architect
• L3 Networking Support Engineer
• Cybersecurity Engineer
• Service Desk Analyst
• Senior Project Manager (bancassurance)
• Cobol Programmer

There are many more positions being offered, check them out here.

10. Renesas Electronics Corporation

Incorporated in 2002, Renesas Electronics Corporation (Renesas) is a semiconductor manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

The firm is a global leader in microcontrollers, analogue, power, and System on Chip (SoC) products that drive innovation in the automotive, industrial, and IoT fields. 

Now worth US$35 billion, the Japanese chipmaker aims to reach a market value of approximately US$100 billion by 2030. This is driven by a series of international acquisitions thanks to Hidetoshi Shibata, its 51-year-old CEO with a background in banking.

Just this August, Renesas acquired Australia-listed software firm Altium Ltd and announced that they’ll be creating an innovative electronics system design and lifecycle management platform. The platform hopes to enable more seamless digital processes to boost overall productivity.

Fun fact: In 2009, Renesas was the world’s third largest chipmaker in sales after Intel and Samsung Electronics.

Source: The Japan Times

Available positions:

• HR Assistant and Executive
• HR Project Coordinator
• Supply Chain Planner
• Manufacturing Planner
• Staff Sales Ops Analyst
• Customer Service Representative
• Analogue IC Layout Design Engineer
• Senior Process Engineer
• SAP CPI Developer
• EDI Analyst Programmer

There are many more positions being offered, check them out here.

11. UST Global

UST Global, one of the largest IT and engineering services companies in Malaysia, has been helping businesses worldwide transform through technology for over 20 years. 

The international firm employs more than 23,000 workers across the globe and collaborates with clients ranging from industries like healthcare and manufacturing to financial services and semiconductors. Some of its more notable clients include Goldman Sachs Group and JPMorgan Chase and Co.

Earlier this year, the company was exploring a US IPO and may seek to raise at least US$500 million in capital. At the time of writing, UST Global is valued at more than US$1 billion.

Available positions:

• Administrative Assistant and Executive
• Business Development Manager
• Java Developer
• IT Project Manager
• Java AWS Developer
• DFT Engineer
• Embedded Linux Engineer
• Design Verification Engineer
• SAP SD Consultant
• Senior Automation Test Engineer

There are many more positions being offered, check them out here.

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To thrive in this industry, having a strong knowledge foundation in one of the STEM disciplines is crucial.

Some skills you’ll need to have include attention to detail, data analysis and processing, and technical understanding of different processes and technologies. 

Other than the ones we’ve highlighted, there are more semiconductor companies in Malaysia that are possibly hiring. So don’t limit yourself to just this list if you’re looking to start (or grow) a career in this booming trade.

With the nation’s goal of establishing at least 10 local companies in design and advanced packaging for semiconductor chips, more job opportunities are sure to follow suit.

• Learn more about Sidec here.
• Read other articles about Sidec’s past efforts here.

Also Read: Mega sales are coming up in M’sia, here’s how to ensure that your parcels don’t go missing

Featured Image Credit: HCL Technologies

SDEC 2024 will explore the latest trends in semicon, AI & ecommerce, here’s how to join

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) is hosting their 9th annual Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre this year.

The annual Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) is back for its ninth year in October 2024. Hosted by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), the conference will focus on themes in burgeoning industries.

From semiconductors and AI to ecommerce, SDEC 2024 will bring you four days of non-stop insights, and it’s all part of what they’re calling their 3-in-1 Tech Conference of the Year.

Happening October 16-19, 2024, at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Sidec is expecting to attract over 18,000 visitors and feature 200 exhibitor booths, showcasing both international and local companies. 

Here’s what you can learn there.

Day 1: Surf the semiconductor tsunami

Semiconductors (or SC, or semicon) is a massive industry that Malaysia is at the heart of. 

The industry’s growth is expected to reach an output of US$46 billion or RM212.52 billion by 2028. It’s no wonder Malaysia is considered an electrical and electronics (E&E) and semiconductor powerhouse—which convinced Tesla to set up shop here.

“The industry has grown at an impressive CAGR of 16% since 1972, and while the last seven years have seen a slightly moderated growth of 10%, the sector remains a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economic landscape,” said Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) President Dato’ Seri Siew Hai Wong at the Tech In Asia 2024 conference.

And that’s exactly what SDEC 2024 wants to explore on the first day. 

Between 10AM to 5PM on October 16, you’ll get access to conferences diving into Malaysia’s IC Design industry, the convergence of AI and semiconductors, and the cultivation of semiconductor talent.

Hear from local and global leaders from QES Group Berhad, STMicroelectronics, Weeroc, and AMD on these sessions planned for the day: 

• Unlocking the Potential: Malaysia’s IC Design Industry and its Impact on Southeast Asia
• Powering the Future: Breakthroughs at the Convergence of AI and Semiconductors
• Transforming Semiconductor Design: The Role of EDA and IP in the AI Era
• Navigating the Asia-Pacific Semiconductor Market Trends and Impact on Malaysia
• Building a Resilient Semiconductor Test & Assembly Supply Chain in Greater Klang Valley
• Cultivating Semiconductor Talent in Malaysia: Bridging Education, Industry, and Technology

Day 2: Activate AI for advancement

The world is recognising Malaysia as an emerging data centre powerhouse in SEA, as demand surges for cloud computing and AI.

Malaysia has attracted billions of dollars in data centre investments, including those from Microsoft’s US$2.2 billion (RM10.5 billion), Google’s US$2 billion investment (RM9.4 billion), and ByteDance’s RM10 billion (US$2.13 billion). 

And these are just in 2024 alone.

AI isn’t just a buzzword; some would argue it’s a key driver of societal progress. Embracing it can help build a skilled workforce and give people access to diverse tech skills. This shift equips individuals to thrive in a digital world, boosting job prospects and fueling national growth.

On October 17, SDEC 2024 will have a full day dedicated to educating you on the potential of AI. They’ve brought together speakers from Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft, SNS Network, and Taiwan AI Academy to speak on:

• Battle of the AI Minds: A Global Talent Competition
• Powering the Robotics Revolution with AI
• Generative AI Development and Deployment in Cloud
• The Impact of AI on Industries: A Deep Dive
• Driving Business Growth with AI: Copilot for SMEs
• Leveraging AI for Advanced Healthcare Solutions
• Building a Smart Mobility Ecosystem with AI

Day 3: Zoom into the ecommerce explosion

The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM) reported a 5.4% year-on-year increase in ecommerce revenue in Q3 2023, rising from RM274.6 million to RM289.5 billion. With over 30 million internet users in 2022, enhanced connectivity has paved the way for this digital shopping revolution, bolstered by a dynamic economy and rising digital literacy.

So, what does this mean for you as a retail business owner? Huge opportunities. And the newer yet already booming ecommerce platform, TikTok Shop, should not be overlooked. 

TikTok reported that nearly 83% of Malaysian consumers turn to social entertainment platforms for shopping, prompting brands to engage their audiences with entertaining and educational content.

TikTok also revealed that 59% of users indulge in retail therapy weekly, and 89% participated in Mega Sales Events last year. High-spending shoppers averaged US$265 (about RM1,100) during these events, driving a sixfold increase in conversions from discovery to purchase in Q2 2023. 

If you’re unsure how to leverage this opportunity, SDEC 2024 has you covered. 

Day three (October 18) features a TikTok Shop SME Digitalisation Conference, where SMEs can discover innovative ecommerce strategies and creative advertising solutions on TikTok Shop:

• TikTok Shop shoppertainment: Leading the Global E-commerce Trend Wave
• TikTok Shop in Malaysia: Unleashing Business Growth and Positive Social Impact
• E-Commerce Revolution: Harnessing TikTok Shop Ads for Impactful E-Commerce Growth
• From “Unknown’ to “Sold-out”: Unleashing the Power of E-commerce Potentials Through TikTok Shop Creators
• Innovate to Elevate: How to Gain Business Success Riding the TikTok Shop Wave
• TikTok Shop Partner (TSP): Unleashing the Power of E-commerce Business
• TikTok Shop MCN: Innovative Branding by Entertaining Engagement

Day 4: Hear from featured Malaysian startups

The final day of SDEC 2024 will highlight the top 20 local startups specialising in AI, biotech, and sustainability, presenting their innovations to venture capitalists and industry experts.

These startups have been part of Sidec’s Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP), and the final day of SDEC 2024 marks their much anticipated Demo Day.

Some of the startups that have previously been part of SAP include names familiar to Vulcan Post, such as Entomal Biotech, iMotorbike, and Virtualtech Frontier.

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Much like Sidec’s previous conventions, SDEC 2024 offers a valuable opportunity to drive innovation by showcasing cutting-edge technologies and their applications across various industries.

Attending the convention means you’ll get to network with influential leaders, policymakers, and innovators from around the world, facilitating meaningful business matching sessions and collaborations.

For those looking to visit SDEC 2024 this October 18-19, early bird tickets start from RM179. Note that the conferences you can attend are based on your passes. Get your tickets to SDEC 2024 here.

• Learn more about SDEC 2024 here.
• Read other articles we’ve written about Sidec here.

Also Read: Sidec aims to nurture 300 startups and SMEs to grow Malaysia’s GDP, here’s the game plan

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Sidec aims to nurture 300 startups and SMEs to grow Malaysia’s GDP, here’s the game plan

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

What kicks off a business idea is often that exciting eureka moment. 

We’ve all been there—you’re sitting with friends, someone mentions a problem they’ve faced, and suddenly an idea sparks, followed by, “We should start a business!”

But that’s the easy part.

The real challenge comes after, when testing, refining, launching, and scaling your idea, all while finding the right team and overcoming continuous pivots. Then, you’ll have to secure funding and continuously manage your costs to build your company’s resilience to push through setbacks.

That’s where the Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme comes in. Launched by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), the programme consists of Selangor Accelerator Programme 2024 (SAP24) and Selangor E-Commerce Accelerator Programme 2024 (ECX24). 

The Twin Accelerator Programme aims to help Selangor’s SMEs and startups grow, providing mentorship and overseas opportunities to turn your business idea into a million-dollar company.

550 applied, but only 100 made the cut

“We have received a remarkable number—over 550 applications for both SAP24 and ECX24 programmes, showcasing the strong interest and enthusiasm within the entrepreneurial community in Selangor,” said Yong Kai Ping, CEO of Sidec.

Sidec’s Head of SME Digitalisation Department, Salman Ahmad told Vulcan Post that the companies were chosen based on their innovation, market potential, scalability, and the strength of the founding team. 

“Additionally, we look for high-impact, high-value, and high-effort founders who demonstrate charisma and leadership qualities—traits that are essential for navigating rapid growth,” he added. “A key differentiator is the readiness of these teams to scale operations while aligning with global trends and local market dynamics.”

Scaling ecommerce companies

50 SMEs from industries like F&B, home living, fashion, wellness, and social impact have been shortlisted for ECX24, and it’s clear why entrepreneurs see value in this programme.

Over four months, they’ll dive into essential workshops and pitching courses that cover everything from AI in ecommerce to cross-border expansion and financial management.

The pitching courses are especially beneficial, as the entrepreneurs will learn to build strong pitch decks, engage with investors, and practise their delivery.

What makes ECX24 valuable is the mentorship SMEs get. Leaders from companies like Carsome, ZUS Coffee, Secret Recipe, and The Lego Group offer personalised feedback and one-on-one sessions. “Many participants stay connected with their mentors after the programme, forming valuable relationships that drive growth,” says Salman.

Take NORI from ECX23, for example—they refined their go-to-market strategy with mentor insights and saw a significant boost in customer acquisition.

The programme will wrap up with a pitching competition where the top 10 winners receive RM30,000 in Pos Malaysia credits. They’ll also get the chance to join ByteDance TikTok’s special programme in Shanghai, opening doors to global markets and cutting-edge digital trends, just like the previous cohort did in 2023.

Partners like TikTok Shop, AEON, Shopline, Microsoft, AWS, and NVIDIA will be offering essential resources in AI, cloud computing, and machine learning.

Accelerating tech startups

Meanwhile, a total of 50 startups focusing on AI, smart mobility, bio-based solutions, and net-zero innovations have been shortlisted for SAP24.

Since its launch in 2018, SAP has been Sidec’s flagship accelerator programme, supporting over 150 companies, with 34% securing funding and 10% reaching valuations over RM100 million, Sidec told us in 2023.

The programme offers mentoring, networking, workshops, and resources to help startups become investment-ready and expand.

Participants will get exciting perks like cloud services, CXO Club membership, and opportunities to showcase their company at Sidec’s annual Selangor Smart City and Digital Economy Convention. Since its initial rollout, SAP has nurtured 190 startup companies, including Nexmind AI, Seed Dream, Borong (formerly known as Dropee), Entomal, and many others.

This year, SAP24 introduced a specialised long-stay overseas trip for selected participants, tailored by vertical according to their business focus.

“The long-stay overseas mission in SAP24 provides startups with invaluable exposure to international markets, but it also comes with challenges such as navigating different regulatory environments and cultural differences,” Salma informed. 

Sidec will support these startups by connecting them with local partners who guide them in understanding the nuances of the markets they are entering. 

“The biggest benefit is the formation of long-term partnerships and collaborations, which foster innovation and enable startups to adapt and thrive in foreign markets,” said Salman.

As the programmes continue to expand their impact, partnerships play a crucial role in their success. This impact can even be backed by the experience of nine startups who were selected by Sidec for their most recent overseas pitching expedition in Tokyo.

AFFIN BANK is the main sponsor of the Twin Accelerator Program, with Invest Selangor Berhad (ISB) as co-organiser for SAP24.

Nurturing 300+ entrepreneurs over 5 years

Sidec aims to nurture over 300 entrepreneurs in the next five years, driving economic growth and contributing to Selangor’s GDP. 

As the startup ecosystem becomes more competitive, entrepreneurs will want to tackle major global challenges like sustainability, cybersecurity, and AI fraud to stand out.

Addressing these issues requires innovative solutions and a focus on long-term impact, and Sidec is on the lookout for entrepreneurs ready to brave these challenges and find solutions to offer in the market.

With ECX24 and SAP24 wrapping up later this year, they’re already on the hunt for SMEs and startups in Malaysia keen to join the Twin Accelerator Programme in 2025. 

• Learn more about the Sidec here.
• Read other articles about Sidec’s past efforts here.

Also Read: Sidec handpicked these 9 M’sian startups to pitch to the Tokyo govt. Here’s what they learnt.

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Sidec handpicked these 9 M’sian startups to pitch to the Tokyo govt. Here’s what they learnt.

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

From May 12 to 18, 2024, nine Malaysian startups took part in a week-long pitching expedition to Tokyo, Japan. Organised by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), the Pitch Malaysia Series aimed to connect these startups with international venture capitalists (VCs) for funding and scaling opportunities. 

This initiative gave Malaysian startups invaluable exposure on the global stage, providing them with networking opportunities and helping boost their global competitiveness.

A look into Tokyo’s innovation landscape

The selected startups explored Japanese innovation hubs such as Leave a Nest Japan, a prominent incubator for deeptech startups. They also participated in significant conferences like SusHi Tech Expo Tokyo and Startup JAPAN 2024.

With networking being a key component of the trip, participants engaged in sessions like the ASEAN TechCrossroads Mixer, which brought together tech startups from across SEA.

They also visited notable organisations such as Plug & Play Japan, Kepple Capital Japan, and the Kawasaki Business Incubation Center (KBIC).

To find out what they learnt from the activity-packed trip and from pitching to international VCs, we spoke to these participants:

Takeaways from the Land Of The Rising Sun

1. Be more aggressive in funding and scaling

The startups shared a common takeaway they received from the judges in Tokyo: they weren’t being aggressive enough.

Shane Mun, founder and CEO of Vimigo, noted how a judge highlighted his conservative efforts in fundraising and expansion.

“Vimigo has traditionally followed a bootstrapped approach, relying on revenue from customers to fuel our growth. This feedback highlighted the need to accelerate our expansion by seeking external funding to move faster and capture larger market opportunities,” Shane said.

Entomal, a seasoned startup that also joined Sidec’s previous expedition to the US, stated that the judges encouraged them to rapidly scale their biotech and waste management solution.

“[We were advised] to place more emphasis on the profitability of our downstream products, like animal feed and frass fertilisers,” Yanni Ching, Entomal’s COO and co-founder stated. 

“While our focus has been on showcasing the environmental and waste management aspects of our solution, the investors were keen to see a stronger narrative around the financial returns and the scalability of our revenue streams.”

2. Make global partnerships to penetrate new markets

Touring around Tokyo’s innovation hubs led to immediate partnerships for VirtualTech Frontier’s Jason Low, thanks to his win at the Asian Metaverse Summit a month before the trip.

For Brandon Chua, founder and CEO of Voice For Health, the trip emphasised the global potential of his mental health solution, as they were able to connect with other startups in complementary fields.

Yanni added that they managed to discuss partnerships with local and international corporations that could greatly benefit Entomal.

“One promising lead we’re pursuing is with a key player in the waste management industry, as well as a university that shares our vision for sustainable waste solutions,” she stated.

Addressing the feedback regarding Vimigo’s need for more aggressive funding, Shane is engaging with interested investors to scale and adapt his solution in different markets.

3. Japan is still shifting from its former risk-averse mindset

Gary Ng, co-founder and CEO of ZUCCA, noticed a key difference in Japan’s preference for fully established products over minimum viable products (MVPs).

“While [Malaysians] focus on creating an MVP, finding product-market fit, and scaling, Japanese corporations tend to prefer a more complete, established product and may consider acquiring the entire company or integrating it into their subsidiaries,” he explained.

Virtualtech Frontier’s Jason echoed that sentiment, saying, “Reflecting on my own company’s deliverables, it is just to say if you take a half-baked MVP to attempt and sell it to a Japanese customer, most of the time you would probably be looked down upon.”

He added, “What was eye-opening to me was how one of the accelerators in Tokyo showed that SaaS companies are typically not doing that well in Japan, as Japanese companies still tend to favour enterprise service models of technology integration more, rather than subscription-based ones.”

This was the exact challenge the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG) raised to Vulcan Post when they engaged us to bring more awareness to Malaysian and Singaporean startups to participate in the SusHi Tech Tokyo 2024 conference.

But things seem to be changing.

ZUCCA’s Gary added that while the traditional mindset is true, he observed a positive shift, with Japanese corporations becoming more open to new approaches and startup innovation. 

4. Think global, not just regional

The Malaysian startups were in unison in raising that pitching to Japan’s landscape was vastly different from their local experiences. 

Cultural differences and language barriers aside, they noticed that Japan’s panel of judges cared greatly about the long-term roadmap of their companies. This is in contrast to the Malaysian landscape, which values the overall impact their companies were aiming to provide.

“Pitching in Tokyo was more formal, focused on long-term vision and sustainable growth. It required a more measured, thoughtful approach, compared to the fast-paced style we’re used to as a tech startup,” Imran Hadi, co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Ejen2U summarised.

When asked if they would do anything differently if given a second chance, the entrepreneurs revealed that they would have dove deeper into understanding the Japanese landscape. They would have also showcased their achievements with greater confidence.

“The seriousness with which Tokyo investors approach these aspects required us to adapt our pitch to meet their higher expectations,” Vimigo’s Shane noted.

-//-

Overall, the startups were grateful for Sidec’s support, which they said helped them navigate cultural differences and structure their pitches effectively.

Additionally, the business communications and meeting arrangements by Sidec greatly aided in the startups’ efforts.

This overseas mission highlights Sidec’s dedication to fostering international collaboration and enriching business networks. 

For now, Sidec will be wrapping up their Twin Accelerator programmes which comprise the Selangor Accelerator Programme 2024 (SAP24) and Selangor E-Commerce Xccelerator Programme 2024 (ECX24). 

The startups that come out of these accelerators will be given the opportunity to go on an overseas mission similar to Japan’s.

So, if you’d like to take part in future opportunities to connect with industry leaders and drive your business forward, stay tuned for the next SAP and ECX cohorts that will be opened in mid-2025.

• Learn more about the Sidec here.
• Read other articles on Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: M’sians can now shop from 10,000+ stores in Japan, no Japanese address needed. Here’s how.

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Sidec brought 5 M’sian ecommerce SMEs to Alibaba’s birthplace, here are their top takeaways

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

On December 10, 2023, five Malaysian brands returned from a week-long overseas business trip in Hangzhou, China.

Facilitated by Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), the expedition was part of the Selangor E-Commerce Xccelerator Programme 2023 (ECX23).

Briefly, the ECX23 programme aims to provide ecommerce entrepreneurs, business owners, and founders with the necessary aid to succeed in the competitive digital market.

The five Malaysian companies were selected based on their respective innovative business models, growth potential, and effective utilisation of the insights gained from the ECX23 programme.

The winners are:

A glimpse into China’s ecommerce hub

Hangzhou was chosen for this expedition as it’s known to be a major ecommerce hub.

Deemed the “Silicon Valley of China”, Hangzhou is where Alibaba was born, and is ranked 10th on Fortune’s list of cities with the most Global 500 headquarters.

Did you know: Global 500 is Fortune Magazine’s annual ranking of the world’s 500 largest companies, measured by how much revenue they made in a single year.

Between December 9-13, 2023, the ECX23 winners delved into China’s AI Town and visited tech facilities focused on ecommerce, big data, cloud computing, IoT, and chip design.

Sidec also facilitated networking sessions between ECX23 entrepreneurs and Hangzhou business leaders. The goal was to help participants gain exposure to how modern technology can be utilised in their businesses to scale globally.

To understand the impact of the business trip on participants, we interviewed the participants to get their key takeaways.

1. The right partners can help you strategically expand to global markets

Shapee’s CEO, Eugene Eau shared that the Hangzhou expedition broadened his mindset about the possibilities of scaling his brand.

Previously, he believed that it was only viable to scale his SME within the Southeast Asian market.

Witnessing Alibaba’s growth in Hangzhou has shifted his mindset. Now, Eugene is convinced that penetrating the global market is possible with strategic ecommerce connections.

This is beneficial, as expanding globally can allow his business to access untapped markets and connect with a broader audience. By doing so, the brand can open up opportunities for increased revenue and long-term sustainability.

2. Prioritise customers by streamlining their end-to-end user experience

Sono Holding’s founder and director, Jezzlyn Siu Cia Yee, found inspiration in Alibaba’s emphasis on customer needs.

“Alibaba’s distinctive approach places employees second and shareholders third, reflecting a profound commitment to understanding market demands and meeting customer expectations,” she elaborated. 

This customer-centric approach has been the key to Alibaba’s growth around the globe. For instance, AliExpress allows businesses and consumers outside China to access affordable products from Chinese sellers. 

The company’s digital payment services like Alipay can also facilitate transactions on Alibaba’s platforms. This extends its customer reach to both offline and online transactions around the globe, serving various customer demographics.

In doing so, Alibaba has become a leading service provider by providing smooth interactions throughout every stage of a customer’s shopping experience. 

Jezzlyn aims to replicate this success, as understanding and fulfilling customer needs can foster customer retention and further growth for her company.

3. Keep up with the latest technologies that could benefit your business

On a similar note of prioritising customers, Jezzlyn underscored the importance of integrating innovative technologies for enhanced customer experiences at Sono Holding. 

Jezzlyn was inspired by the latest AI technologies showcased during the expedition, spanning live streaming, AI digitalisation, and cutting-edge marketing automation tools. 

She told Vulcan Post that these ideas have sparked discussions in her team to think up digital promotional strategies for Sono Holding’s products and services.

Founder of Pastels Group, Sarini Zainal Abidin was left with a similar takeaway for her business.

“Alibaba leverages big data and AI to enhance user experience, improve logistics, and personalise recommendations,” she noted.

Based on this learning, Sarini aims to utilise similar strategies in taking advantage of big data to design the right products that target the right audiences.

Elevating local businesses through international collaborations

Ultimately, the participants shared that the ECX23 expedition to Hangzhou opened their eyes to opportunities for expanding their sales channels. 

This overseas mission also highlights Sidec’s dedication to fostering international collaboration and enriching business networks. 

So, if you’d like to take part in future opportunities to connect with industry leaders and drive your business forward, registrations for the next ECX cohort will be opened in mid-2024 on Sidec’s website.

Sign-ups are also open for the Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards, which is a recognition programme for the most innovative homegrown e-commerce merchants in Malaysia.

• Learn more about the Selangor E-Commerce Xccelerator Programme here.
• Read other articles on Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: M’sia is ramping up sports innovation. Here’s what to know about NTIS SportTech Sandbox.

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

SDEC 2023’s summit will explore the latest startup trends like AI & ESG, here’s how to join

[This is a sponsored article with Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).]

Selangor Smart City and Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) is an annual event by Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) to spearhead the digital transformation of Selangor as ASEAN’s digital hub.

At the same time, it’s a platform for industry players to gather and engage in discussions on emerging trends in the landscape. 

2023 is no different, with the 8th SDEC set to be held at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. 

This year’s theme is “Revolutionising the Digital Landscape with AI, Net Zero, and Biotech”. The aim is to provide SMEs and startups with insights into the implementation of their AI and ESG initiatives. 

This support by Sidec and its partners is instrumental in enabling SMEs to achieve financial growth and thrive.

The convention will be held for four days from October 19, 2023 to October 22, 2023, between 10AM to 5PM.

Each day of the convention will cover different topics, with the first three days being summits, specifically:

• SME Digitalisation Summit: Driving Million Dollar Growth in the Digital Era
• SME ESG Summit: Accelerating Sustainable Transformation in Retail Supply Chains
• AI, Net Zero & Biotech Investor Summit

“AI and ESG may seem like daunting topics for SMEs, but they are actually very relevant and beneficial for their growth and sustainability,” said Lee Wai Meng, Sidec’s SME Startup Manager. “AI can help SMEs leverage data and automation to improve their efficiency, productivity, and innovation,” said Lee Wai Meng, Sidec’s SME Startup Manager.

Hence, entrepreneurs looking to gain an edge in these fields should take advantage of SDEC 2023’s discussions.

Some interesting topics to look out for during these summits include “Ecommerce and Digital Marketing Trends to Watch in 2024”, “Adopting Green Technologies and Circular Economy Practices in Supply Chain”, and “Responsible AI: Charting a Sustainable Path Forward”. 
You can browse the other topics being covered on each day here.

Experience a pitch demonstration in real time

On the last day, visitors will be able to witness a pitching showcase (called Demo Day) by top 20 participants of the 6th cohort of the Selangor Acceleration Programme (SAP) 2023, which is led by Sidec.

For context, SAP is basically a launchpad for startups in Malaysia. This year’s SAP saw 40 startups chosen to undergo a three-month intensive and structured module consisting of workshops, pitching clinics, and mentoring sessions. 

A panel of venture capitalists (VCs) will be evaluating the pitches, where the top 10 finalists stand a chance to win funds from a cash prize pool of RM30,000. 

These winners will also get a five-day overseas mission to Taiwan, with Sidec covering the travel expenses. This overseas trip will provide valuable business networking opportunities.

If you’re an entrepreneur or someone looking to join the startup scene, this is one session that should not be missed. By observing the 40 startups, you could pick up on certain tips and tricks to aid your future business pitching.

It will also help you to better understand what VCs will consider and scrutinise before funding an enterprise.

But if you’re hoping to explore what products and services are already available in the market, you could check out SDEC’s four-day exhibition which features 250 booths by 150 global and local companies.

Mingle with industry experts and leaders

A total of 60 influential leaders, international speakers, and top panellists will be attending the summits at this year’s convention.

They include notable figures like Rizal Nainy of SME Corp, Efrata Puji Harsono of Meta, Venon Tian of ZUS Coffee, Mohamed Ashraf Husni Zai of Telekom Malaysia, and Vinod Narayanan of AstraZeneca Malaysia.

And of course, these industry experts and various leaders gathered in one place also makes SDEC 2023 a strategic platform for business networking. 

Besides startup founders, SMEs, and entrepreneurs, you’ll get to mingle with:

• Smart city technologists and builders
• Venture capitalists, angels, and private investors
• Software and digital professionals
• Government agencies and local councils
• ESG and EV Players

“Through the structured business matching sessions and curated startup-investor one-on-one

meetings, attendees would be able to meet potential collaborators, and explore mutually beneficial partnerships to foster innovation and growth in their respective industries,” stated Wai Meng.

What do I need to attend the convention?

For those interested in attending SDEC 2023 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, tickets are free for the exhibitions. 

However, if you’re looking to join the summits, prices differ based on your selected conferences. 

Here’s a quick breakdown of the summit passes available and their perks:

• Learn more about Sidec here.
• Get your pass for SDEC 2023 here.

Also Read: 5 reasons why drone deliveries have yet to fully take off in M’sia

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Early-stage startups, here’s how you can get a cut of RM36K from Sidec’s 2023 accelerator

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

There’s been a rising demand in Malaysia’s startup ecosystem for companies to make a positive impact on society and the environment, alongside profitability. 

To do so, these companies would generally leverage emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, robotics, blockchain, biotech, AR/VR, and the like. They can be classified as deeptech startups.

As most of these companies are complex by nature, it’s no surprise then that initial funding and support can be a struggle.

That’s where the Selangor Accelerator Programme 2023 (SAP) comes in, led by Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).

Backed by the Selangor state government and supported by Affin Bank Berhad as its main sponsor, SAP 2023 aims to foster innovation while driving economic growth in the region.

Exposing startups to greater opportunities

Having been a launchpad for startups since its inception in 2018, SAP has nurtured over 150 startups with 34% of its participants securing funding. 

Furthermore, 10% of SAP alumni companies have received a valuation of over RM100 million, according to Sidec.

One notable example is the homegrown startup, Entomal Biotech (Entomal), a finalist from last year’s edition of the programme. The sustainability-based company uses the regenerative functions of black soldier flies (BSF) larvae as a sustainable treatment option for waste management, thus contributing to the circular economy.

They also produce BSF-based food products to alleviate the rising global demand for animal feed.

With the initial support and funding from Sidec’s SAP, Entomal participated in overseas expeditions to Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, as well as the USA’s Silicon Valley and Washington D.C.There, they pitched their innovations to international investors for potential expansions across borders.

With the help of Sidec, Entomal also collaborated with government bodies to make an impact on society. In March 2023, the startup worked with the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) to combat food waste by deploying their solution in Glenmarie.

Get support through intensive programmes and mentorships

If chosen for SAP 2023, you’ll be participating in a three-month intensive and structured module, which comprises workshops, pitching clinics, and mentoring sessions. 

These workshops and mentorships will be conducted by industry leaders who will help you in polishing your early-stage startup’s product and business model.

Through the guidance and feedback of mentors, you’ll also get to brush up on your soft skills and pitching styles for SAP 2023’s pitching showcase called Demo Day. 

And you’d want to polish up those skills, as Demo Day is where you’ll be showcasing your startup to a panel of VCs.

If your startup is chosen as a top six finalist on the final Demo Day, you could win funds from a cash prize pool of RM36,000. You’ll also get US$10,000 worth of cloud credits from Amazon Web Services (AWS), a partner of the programme.

Much like Entomal, your startup will get access to networking opportunities and strategic partnerships with potential investors, customers, and collaborators, be they local or overseas. 

“Notable [investors] that will be present in the programme include renowned VC firms like The Hive SEA, The SEA Capital, Sterling Equity, Artem, and more, as well as equity crowdfunding platforms such as Mystartr, where Entomal successfully raised RM1.75 million,” added Lee Wai Meng, Manager of Startup & SME division at Sidec. 

Through SAP 2023, you’ll also get to be a part of the eighth edition of Selangor Smart City and Digital Economy Convention (SDEC), taking place in October 2023.

SDEC is where participating startups can display their innovations to industry experts, other SMEs, as well as public and private investors. 

As part of SDEC, you can gain insights from major conferences hosted by 30 influential leaders, international speakers, and top panellists who will take the stage in the same exhibition hall.

Additionally, SAP will grant you access to a dedicated coworking space at Selangor Sandbox for one year. There, you’ll be working in an environment of like-minded entrepreneurs to collaborate, network, and grow together.

What it takes to qualify for the accelerator

To grow the nation’s digital economy and smart city ambitions, SAP 2023 is looking for startups that have the tech to complement this ecosystem.

Hence, startups with a focus in AI, sustainability impact, healthtech, agritech, and biotech are encouraged to apply for the accelerator.

“By nurturing these startups, Sidec aims to contribute to the advancement of AI, sustainable practices, healthcare, agriculture, and biotechnology, ultimately making a positive impact on society, the environment, and the economy,” stated Wai Meng.

Startups must also:

• Have been incorporated in Malaysia
• Be an early-stage (pre-seed or seed) startup 
• Have a minimum viable product or beta version of their offering
• Commit at least one member to join the three-month programme (or a maximum of two co-founders, or the founder and a core member)

Applications are open from July 3 to August 4, 2023, and you’ll know if your startup has been shortlisted by Sidec on August 17.

Here are some dates to take note of:

Sidec is looking to shortlist 30 startups for the 2023 edition of their accelerator.

So if you’re ready to take your business to new heights, Sidec can prepare you with the necessary know-how to grow your business through SAP.

• Register for Sidec’s Selangor Accelerator Programme 2023 here.
• Read other articles on Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: Singledom, rivalry, and fortune: Here’s how June 18 became a global ecommerce festival

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

3 key takeaways of these M’sian startups after joining Sidec’s pitching expedition in the US

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

Recently, nine Malaysian startups have returned from a week-long pitching expedition around the US.

This programme was hosted by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) under Sidec’s third installation of their Pitch Malaysia USA Series. 

Between May 1-7, Sidec brought them around San Francisco’s Silicon Valley, and Washington D.C., where they met up with international venture capitalists (VCs) to showcase their solutions.

This programme is meant to spotlight Malaysian startups, exposing them to global investors and startups, for scaling and funding opportunities

The nine Malaysian companies were selected from a diverse pool of tech startups, representing sectors such as AI, healthcare, sustainability, and more.

From a motorbike marketplace to a metaverse builder

Out of the selected startups, two of them operate in the healthtech scene. They are Alps Global Holding (ALPS) and Qmed Asia.

ALPS is a life sciences and biotech company aiming to make advanced preventative healthcare accessible and affordable to consumers. It is currently working towards being publicly listed.

Meanwhile, Qmed Asia digitalises queueing systems at healthcare facilities via online bookings, self-registration kiosks, and remote patient monitoring systems. The startup also has AI tools to help doctors come up with initial diagnoses and interpret patients’ imaging scans.

Also leveraging AI in their service is Accendo Technologies, an HR platform utilising behavioural science to help companies decide whether talents fit their organisations.

Representing the metaverse industry is Virtualtech Frontier (VTF), a Web3 startup backed by 500 Global helping businesses create their own metaverses.

VTF, alongside the two healthtech startups, were selected to also pitch at the 2023 SelectUSA Investment Summit (2023 SelectUSA) in Washington D.C. 

In fact, VTF was crowned the third-place winner in the SelectUSA Tech Regional Pitching Session, beating 300 global startups chosen for the summit.

Startups that were part of 2023 SelectUSA were handpicked by the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. Having pitched to global investors, VTF, Qmed Asia, and ALPS have proudly showcased the potential of Malaysian startups to the world. 

Also participating in Sidec’s Pitch Malaysia USA Series are Revenue Monster and Pod, representing the fintech industry. 

Backed by The SEA Capital, Revenue Monster is a platform empowering businesses with digital payment solutions and ecommerce management tools.

Pod’s solution is a personal finance management platform helping B40 Malaysians get better access to financing by building their credit trails, saving money for specific goals, and more. 

Having joined the expedition, Pod is now backed by The Hive SEA, a co-creation seed-stage venture fund in Malaysia, with its HQ based in Palo Alto, California.

Over in the sustainability sector, there’s Entomal Biotech (Entomal) which uses black soldier flies (BSF) as a sustainable treatment option for waste management.

For travel solutions, BOXCUBE, a Traveloka-like company, brings customers updates and prices on travelling packages for international experiences.

Finally, there was iMotorbike which enables users to buy and sell preowned motorcycles on a secure marketplace. The company is also backed by 500 Global.

What were their biggest takeaways?

On June 8, 2023, Vulcan Post attended Sidec’s Selangor Startup Day, where the startups that attended the Pitch Malaysia USA Series were celebrated. 

Out of the nine participants, a few of them took the stage to share their key takeaways from their experiences of pitching their startups to US investors.

1. Start with why, and dare to be ambitious

Jason Low, founder and CEO of VTF, highlighted that his key takeaway came from watching how other international companies would always start their pitches with a very ambitious ‘why’.

“Overseas founders think they have the potential to change the world,” he reflected. 

Illustrating his point, Jason shared that he had observed how a mushroom farming company boldly pitched their mission of reducing meat consumption among meat eaters. 

Already positioning themselves globally, they shared with investors some examples of how their startup could solve world hunger and even climate change. 

2. Plan your exit from the get-go

Additionally, Jason pointed out that international entrepreneurs always had an end goal in mind. 

It’s not just in terms of how they plan to change the world, but also in their exit strategy, whether it’s going public, staying private, or joining larger corporations.

Nadia Ismadi, who founded Pod, seconded this and added, “The appetite from VCs has changed.”

“With limited resources available now, gone are the days where you could just pitch your ideas and acquire as many users as you can. If you can’t translate those users into real ROI for your business, the VCs are not interested in listening to that growth story anymore.”

3. Be open to active knowledge sharing

Nadia also highlighted that Silicon Valley’s startup culture is largely based on knowledge exchange.After participating in countless tours around American research centres and pitching events, she witnessed how every player involved was extremely open to throwing out ideas to be evaluated and challenged by one another.

ALPS’s Amanda was also impressed by the availability of government-funded research institutes, funding, and policy-related support that startups receive throughout their R&D from both VCs and government bodies in the US.

What’s next?

Sidec’s CEO, Yong Kai Ping, shared that Malaysia is actually home to a pool of highly competitive startups, but they tend to be overlooked by international investors.

Thus, the agency is set on hosting more overseas missions in the future, bringing local startups to destinations like the US, China, Indonesia, Dubai, Vietnam, and Bangkok to pursue growth opportunities.

For now though, Sidec is calling out to Malaysian startups to join their annual flagship Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP). They’re looking for companies to join their sixth cohort that operates in the industries of AI, tech, and sustainability-related sectors.

• Join the Selangor Accelerator Programme 2023 here.
• Read other articles on Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: PayNet Malaysia’s hackathon attracted 440 participants, here are the winning solutions

Featured Image Credit: Vulcan Post

Sidec is looking to bring 10 M’sian startups to the US stage, here’s how to take part

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

Since 2021, Malaysia has had a national goal of attracting or growing five unicorns by 2025. So far, the country has identified three of them, Carsome, edotco, and AirAsia Digital. 

Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) wants to join the search.

“I have seen a good deal of high-potential startups that could expand to the international level and receive investments that could make them among the unicorns,” shared Sidec’s CEO, Yong Kai Ping.

Sidec has been nurturing local startups through its Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP) since 2018. Kai Ping elaborated that the programme’s alumni have continued to receive funding even after the accelerator.

“Hence, I do believe that we can achieve the goal by 2025,” Kai Ping affirmed.

To do so, Sidec is calling out to local startups to join Sidec’s Pitch Malaysia USA Series. This is the third time Sidec is bringing Malaysian startups on an expedition to the US.

The programme’s aim is twofold: to expose local startups to global investors, and for Malaysians to scale their companies to the US.

So, if you’ve got a disruptive innovation, and are ready to scale in new markets, here’s what you need to know about Pitch Malaysia USA Series.

Tour Silicon Valley & pitch to US investors

Since 2020, Sidec has been bringing local startups on multiple overseas missions, such as China, Indonesia, Dubai, Vietnam, and Bangkok.

On previous visits to the US, Sidec brought participants on industrial visits to UC Berkeley, Stanford University, and Draper University. 

They also attended a dinner with the Malaysian diaspora, and participated in a meeting with the California Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development. Furthermore, the startups joined an investment expo by The Hive, a Californian seed-stage venture fund. 

If chosen for this year’s programme, you’ll get to showcase your startup’s products, services, or innovations to potential investors at two different pitching showcases in Silicon Valley (San Francisco), and Washington D.C.

You could also have the chance to pitch your ideas and get funding from US investors at the 2023 SelectUSA Investment Summit. Startups will be hand-picked by the US Department of Commerce’s International Trade Administration. 

“[The investment summit] will be officiated by the US president, Joe Biden. Sidec is working closely with the US Embassy in Malaysia in bringing 10 of the best Malaysian startups that provide disruptive technology and are investment-ready,” said Kai Ping. 

Thus far, NexMind AI (alumni of SAP 2021 and winner of SelectUSA ASEAN) was the only Malaysian startup that participated in the 2022 SelectUSA Investment Summit.

How to qualify for the expedition

Having worked with startups like Biji-biji Initiative, Langit Collective, Biztory, Petotum, JomParking, and Y Combinator alumni Dropee, Sidec’s Pitch Malaysia USA Series is looking for startups that:

• Have been incorporated for less than 10 years in Malaysia (from January 1, 2013);
• Raised US$500,000 from a VC firm or institutional investor;
• Generated at least US$1 million in revenue over the last 12 months;
• Are developing new technology in their products or services, or providing disruptive innovation; and,
• Are ready to expand to the US within the next three years.

As for what the team means by disruptive innovations, they pointed to ChatGPT as an example. The AI chatbot can be used in many ways, from writing essays, generating lines of code, answering questions in a specific persona, and more.

Put simply, Sidec is looking for tech startups that can complement Selangor’s growth and development, across IoT, fintech, ecommerce, agritech, and the like.

“With that being said, we look forward to startups that build a solution by adding or changing the technology into products or services,” Sidec’s team added. 

Mark these dates

The 10 high-potential startups will be chosen by Sidec’s selection committee, based on their company’s scale and business potential in the market.

Applications are open from February 20 (12PM) to March 10, 2023 (12PM), and you’ll know if your startup has been shortlisted by Sidec on March 16.

Here are some dates to take note of:

So, think your startup has a shot at impressing US investors? Sign up for Sidec’s Pitch Malaysia USA Series here.

• Register for Pitch Malaysia USA Series here.
• Read other articles on Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: For RM210/hr, international teachers can prep M’sian students for all major exams

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Here’s a list of Xmas gifts to shop from local brands for these 7 types of M’sians

[This is a sponsored article with Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).]

If you haven’t begun thinking about what to get for your loved ones this Christmas, we’ve thought up seven likely traits, and matched them to gifts that may resonate with them. 

We’ve highlighted gifts in the form of products, all sold by businesses in Malaysia that are currently competing to win the title of Malaysia’s Top E-Commerce Merchant (Top ECM) Awards 2022. With over 240 brands shortlisted this year, this list is non-exhaustive, and there’s more to be explored.

The competition is organised by Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), and SUBPLACE is the Official Marketplace Partner for the competition this year.

For context, SUBPLACE is a local ecommerce platform that primarily operates on a rent-to-own basis. It also offers one-off purchases on selected items as well. 

Without further ado, here’s a list of Xmas gifts to shop from local brands for these seven types of Malaysians.

1. For the one who never turns down a snack

This person is a foodie. They can appreciate a good cuppa, and are able to pick up on the floral or fruity nodes in their cold brew, even though it just tastes like regular coffee to you. 

You’ll find that they often carry around snacks, maybe even sporadically offering you titbits.

Perhaps they’d appreciate specialty coffee brew bags from HWC Coffee or locally made confectionaries from Grandeur Chocolate. 

HWC Coffee features a selection of individually packed coffee sachets, sold in gift packs that cost as low as RM49 for 10 sachets of mixed flavours. There’s also a gift set that costs RM105 for 10 drip bag coffee sachets, and it comes with a gooseneck kettle in the box.

While founded in Taiwan, HWC Coffee joined SUBPLACE to aid in its Malaysian expansion in 2022 to sell its speciality coffee beans. 

Meanwhile, Grandeur Chocolate is a home-grown chocolate manufacturer producing sweets for other chocolate labels, and later came up with its own brand (Grandeur).

Under Grandeur, they’ve got chocolate flavours such as mint, milk, white, dark, and they make keto chocolates too. A box of 20 chocolates is priced between RM70-RM198.

2. For the one who could use some TLC for their skin 

This person may spend at least 30 minutes on their nighttime skincare routine to either pamper themselves or treat their skin issues such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis.

Ac Guard specialises in formulating products to treat acne in a steroid-free manner. Using ingredients like niacinamide and rosemary leaf extract which are known to fight acne with potent antibacterial qualities, the brand has formulated repair creams that cost as low as RM50.

For those with sensitive skin, products from Rawganics or Claire Organics might be suitable. After all, these businesses are founded and crafted by mothers looking for naturally derived products that are safe for their babies.

Both brands have a range of products such as facial serums, natural deodorants, and body soaps which claim to be safe for sensitive skin, and soothing to eczema or psoriasis itches.

Rawganics has products priced between RM20-RM140, while Claire Organics’ are RM18-RM54.

3. For the new or expecting parents

If you can think of at least one friend or family member who’s expecting in the upcoming weeks or months, Mommy J, Offspring inc (Offspring), and Shapee can cater to their needs.

Mommy J is a local brand producing homemade nutritional baby food such as yoghurt melts, rice puffs, teething rusks, and other powders to mix into soft foods, all costing between RM20-RM58.

Offspring sells personal care products for babies, ensuring that their biodegradable wipes, organic skincare products, and eco-friendly diapers are made from natural materials and are toxin-free. 

To make it convenient for gifters, Offspring has a newborn set priced at RM242. It contains soothing nappy balms, lotions, plant-based wipes, diapers, and even baby-safe bath bombs in the bundle.

Shapee is a local brand founded by a couple who wanted to address the needs of women looking for maternity and nursing wear, including hands-free pumping bras, breast therapy thermal pads, and low-waist maternity panties. Shapee’s products are priced between RM19.90-RM96.

Meanwhile, if you’re shopping for a friend’s toddler, CeeTee retails educational supplies including colouring materials and Montessori playthings costing between RM21.90-RM100.

4. For the modest fashionista

Sometimes, getting your friends clothing to expand their wardrobe can be a less flashy, albeit practical, gift especially if you already know their sizing.

Providing a range of modest Muslim women attires are Maryam Khadijah and Hernies, with prices ranging from RM63-RM167 and RM19.90-RM75 respectively. 

Both of these local brands have a range of attire that includes baju kurung, tudung, hijab, and shawls of different patterns and sizes.

Meanwhile, Simala is a clothing merchant that offers both men’s and women’s attire at affordable prices, from RM6.70-RM84.

5. For those who want a touch of luxury

This one’s meant for those who wear the same statement jewellery pieces daily. Why not diversify their collection by getting high-quality gold pieces from MJ Jewellery and LITZ, or even titanium ones from Celovis?

These brands carve and sell bracelets, pendants, necklaces, earrings, and more. They’re sold at prices as low as RM54, RM123, and RM149 respectively.

For those looking for more glitz with shimmery diamonds or gemstones could also consider getting customisable pieces from LITZ.

6. For those needing a little home improvement

If you know someone who may be stubborn about upgrading their home appliances—like your parents or grandparents—you could do them a favour by gifting something they’d likely use every day.

PENSONIC and Swiss Thomas are consumer electrical appliances brands that claim to offer products at affordable price points. 

Giftees who enjoy cooking may find the PENSONIC World Kitchen Smart Pot for RM1,688, or the Swiss Thomas Kitchen Knife set of seven for RM51, worthy tools to have.

Meanwhile, Khind Malaysia (Khind) is a local brand offering rent-to-own home appliances on SUBPLACE, where you could pay a monthly fee to use them for up to 18 months.

For example, you could subscribe to Khind’s 10kg Fully Auto Washing Machine for RM89/month for 18 months, or get a 40L Electric Oven for RM30/month for 12 months. 

7. For those who could use a spa day

This friend is probably one who just can’t seem to catch a break. So, perhaps you can step in as a good friend to get them any one of ITSU’s massage products to unwind those knots at home.

The brand is offering a few types of rent-to-own plans for their products via SUBPLACE, such as the ITSU iClass Massage Chair for RM198/month for 36 months.

Otherwise, you could opt to get them some aromatherapy essential oils to help them unwind and relax. These are sold by Claire Organics for RM39-RM42.

-//- 

Under SUBPLACE’s current promotions with the merchants competing for Malaysia’s Top ECM Awards 2022, shoppers can “Celebrate 2gether” with deals for the e-commerce platform’s second Birthday Bonanza, with discounts of up to 85%.

For these brands to win Malaysia’s Top ECM Awards 2022, they must be one of SUBPLACE’s top merchants by actively promoting and selling their products from September 20 till November 30.

The three-month competition offers a total pool of prizes worth RM60,000 in cash and other prizes in-kind.

All of this means that shopping from these merchants will be a win-win(-win) situation for you, your giftee, and the sellers.

• You can shop from these merchants here.
• Read about other Malaysian startups here.

Also Read: Here’s what IPC’s new work pods can offer mall goers who are also workaholics

Featured Image Credit: Khind Malaysia / HWC Coffee / Celovis

SDEC 2022 will have 5 key happenings & it’s 4 days long. Here’s what to expect this October.

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) is hosting their 7th annual Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre this year.

Unlike last year which was a hybrid event consisting of one exhibition and one conference over a three-day period, this year’s SDEC will be the largest one yet, lasting four days long starting from October 6 until October 9, 2022.

Notable individuals ranging from smart city technologists, builders, government agencies, investors, and more will be present at the convention, making it an ideal place for businesses seeking to increase their exposure.

Here’s what the convention entails

Much like last year’s convention, SDEC aims to spearhead the digital transformation of Selangor as ASEAN’s digital hub and act as a platform for local industry players to engage and discuss emerging trends. In addition to that, they also aim to strengthen and grow Selangor digital ecosystem for SMEs.

For this year, SDEC 2022 will revolve around the theme of “Sustainable Digitalisation Towards a Net-Zero Future” to gather industry leaders, academics, and SMEs to explore solutions for existing and future smart cities, and digital economy frameworks.

Having said that, there are five core elements the convention will be focusing on:

1. Asian Smart City Conference;
2. Selangor SME Digitalisation Conference;
3. Selangor Fashion Accelerator (Demo Day);
4. Live Stream Festival;
5. Exhibition.

Here’s a quick rundown of what each of these elements entails.

1. The Asian Smart City Conference, where global city leaders share their best smart city practices

Asian Smart City Conference: Mayors Summit that’s happening on October 6, will involve city mayors from countries like Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Malaysia. These representatives will share their experiences and approaches they took to improve city liveability using smart technologies.

There, the audience can witness first-hand how these representatives collaborate and work out solutions to tackle smart city issues.

The Net-Zero and Circular Economy Forum will take place the next day on October 7. Here, 24 experts will discuss these topics and how to implement them to develop an eco-friendly smart city:

• Smart Mobility & Zero-Emission Vehicles;
• Smart Waste & River Management;
• Solar, Biofuel & Biomass Energy;
• Smart Cloud & Data Governance;
• Smart Technologies for Energy;
• Green Investment & Financing.

2. Get guidance on digitalising your SME with the Selangor SME Digitalisation Conference

SMEs looking to embrace digitalisation but don’t know where to start, SDEC will also be hosting the Selangor SME Digitalisation Conference, which reveals the best practices for companies seeking to embrace digitalisation.

Image Credit: Sidec

Here are the topics that will be talked about by the 16 speakers during the conference:

• The Rise of FinTech & Digital Bank;
• Digital Trade Revolution: Post Pandemic Growth for SMEs;
• ‘Blitzscale’ Your Business towards Unicorn status;
• How can Live Stream Elevate Retail Businesses?

3. Foster business opportunities with exhibitors, or exhibit your own business

Other than the conferences mentioned above, there will be exhibitors scattered throughout the event grounds from October 6 until October 9, 2022, from 10AM to 6PM. 

Filled with up to 100 booths, visitors can get to know the exhibitors and the products that they offer there. On top of that, it’s also an ideal place for investors and venture capitalists to look for new businesses to invest in.

4. Browse through investment-worthy businesses through the SDEC Live Stream Festival

Speaking of which, the Live Stream Festival will run from 10AM to 6PM daily throughout all four days of the convention. The broadcast will be streamed live on Sidec’s Facebook.

During the broadcast, exhibitors, sponsors, and selected merchants from the Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant (Top ECM) Awards will be given the opportunity to go on the live stream to talk about their business and the products or services they provide. 

5. Witness Malaysia’s next potential big-name designer with the Selangor Fashion Accelerator Demo Day

Last but not least, it will also be the demo day for the Selangor Fashion Accelerator on October 8, where the top six finalists that have undergone the two-month-long programme will show off their Malaysian modest fashion concept and design.

The winners of this accelerator will be eligible for an investment opportunity from The Hive Southeast Asia, a seed stage venture capitalist firm.

What do I need to attend the convention?

For those looking to visit SDEC 2022 at Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, early bird tickets start from RM99.

Note that the conferences you can attend are based on your passes. Here’s a quick breakdown of the passes available, their perks, and which conference you are eligible for:

• Learn more about Sidec here.
• Get your pass for SDEC 2022 here.

Also Read: How this RM1,199 smart vacuum-mop fared against the clutter of our 5 fluffy pets

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

Sidec’s accelerator has helped 120 startups, here’s how you can get a share of RM50k funding

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

Last year, we covered the 4th Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP) cohort of Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec), where 30 startups were shortlisted and subsequently received prizes and access to industry professionals to aid them in their development.

This year, Sidec is looking to build the 5th cohort of SAP, furthering its objectives of helping startups realise their potential to create and promote innovative solutions. 

At the end of the accelerator programme, the top 30 startups could win a cut of the RM50,000 prize pool and other beneficial perks to further develop their business. Here’s how to be part of it.

If you’re in any of these verticals, SAP wants you

Similar to last year, there will be five main verticals in SAP that startups can specialise in such as agritech, greentech, smart city, fintech, and the newly introduced healthtech, which replaces last year’s e-commerce vertical.

This change follows how the pandemic has pushed healthcare technology into a more crucial role in Malaysia and the rest of the globe’s healthcare sectors, with new healthcare technologies even changing the way people address their needs.

Other than the main verticals, startups focusing on artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud computing, big data, machine learning, Internet of Things (IoT), and more, are welcome to join.

The theme for this year’s SAP will revolve around net zero, sustainability, and the circular economy. If your idea (regardless of vertical) addresses any one of these concepts, you might already be one step closer to the prize.

SAP stacks on the support too

On top of the network of angel investors, government bodies, and venture capitalists that startups will have access to, you’ll also be able to develop your soft skills and pitching styles so that you and your business are ready to face potential investors.

Furthermore, you will be given overseas pitching opportunities and study trips to gain industry-related exposure.

One SAP 2021 alumni, Francis Lui, the founder and CEO of NexMind AI, a big data and AI company, highlighted that he developed several necessary skills like how to give a five-minute presentation, prepare a pitch deck for investors, identify pitfalls of a startup and how to avoid them.

He also noted that the programme provides other benefits, including press coverage, exposure and endorsement from Sidec, plus a network of startups and experienced mentors to help you out.

Here’s what you need to know to join

There is no entry fee to join SAP, and Malaysian startups in the pre-seed or seeding stage are eligible to sign up for the three-month accelerator programme.

However, you must ensure that your business is registered with Suruhanjaya Syarikat Malaysia (SSM). You should also have a minimum viable product (MVP) or at least a beta version of your service.

Here’s a programme timeline:

The acceleration phase includes 11 workshops, three pitching clinics, five office-hour mentoring sessions, and one closed-door semi-final stage, which will last until September 9, 2022. Do note that some of the SAP modules might be done on-site (offline).

As for what happens during the Demo Day, check out one of SAP’s videos here:

After the demo phase, the top 30 startups chosen by the judges will be eligible for:

• US$5,000 worth of Amazon Web Services (AWS) credit, 
• Six months of free access to the Selangor Digital Creative Centre (SDCC) coworking space,
• The opportunity to work with industry players, and more.

On the other hand, the top 10 out of the 30 startups will get the previously mentioned benefits and an additional six months of access to SDCC.

Last but not least, the top five out of the 30 shortlisted will enjoy an additional US$5,000 in AWS credits and RM10,000 in cash per startup.

-//-

Since the first cohort of SAP in 2018, Sidec has helped 120 startups with 34% of them receiving funding to aid in developing their businesses. With the 5th cohort starting soon, they are looking for another 30 potential startups to work with.

If you’re keen on taking your startup to the next level, Sidec’s SAP is an option that will prepare you with the crucial skills needed to run your business and pitch to potential investors.

Registrations are open from May 10, 2022, onwards, and you can check out Sidec’s official website to know more.

• Register to take part in Sidec’s SAP here.
• Find out more information about Sidec’s SAP here.

Also Read: Affiliate marketing differs from influencer marketing, but how, and who is it fit for?

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

6 highlights from this insightful entrepreneur event, one of the first in M’sia post-COVID

[This is a sponsored post with Sidec.]

From November 19-21, the Selangor Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) took place in the form of a hybrid event this year, hosted by the Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).

Lasting 3 days, the event kicked off with a full 2 days of panels by 45 distinguished speakers and wrapped up with Pitch@Selangor 5: Selangor Super League.

Key themes this year for the panels included discussions around fintech, agritech, travel tech, digital marketing, and SME digitalisation, all picked for their growing importance as the global economy heals from COVID-19.

Meanwhile, the Selangor Super League boasted 20 startups selected from 3 of Selangor’s leading accelerators: the Selangor Accelerator Programme, Sunway iLabs Super Accelerator, and ScaleUp Malaysia.

Safe to say, this was an event packed with expert knowledge and experience, and these were the highlights of SDEC 2021.

Day 1

1. Insider viewpoints on Malaysia’s SME digitalisation & fintech disruption

The first panel kicked off with an engaging discussion about the digitalisation trends in Malaysia, along with the current fintech landscape.

Speakers such as Danny Chua of TNG Digital, Eric Chong of Boost Biz, Aizat Rahim of Dropee, and more, made appearances to share their insights.

From them, we learnt that though Malaysia is improving its rate of business digitalisation, we still have many more SMEs to bring into the 21st century.

Some methods to do that include simplifying the onboarding of SMEs onto online platforms and lowering the barriers to entry.

Contrary to the popular belief that too many players spoil the market, the panellists believe that having more players would accelerate the adoption of digitalisation. They also noted that digital payments are only the first step in the digitalisation journey—it is just one solution amidst many more pain points to address.

This is where players in the private sector can fill gaps that incumbent institutions cannot, such as the provision of microloans.

2. Understanding how Malaysia’s travel and tourism sector is recovering

On the topic of travel and tourism, speakers like Roslan Sulaiman, Senior Deputy Director of IT at Tourism Malaysia and Rickson Goh, founder and CEO of Tourplus took the stage.

In summary, the global population is in the period of revenge spending. After being cooped up for so long, it’s no surprise that we’re willing to trade our hard-earned cash for experiences that matter to us.

But with international borders still not quite open, the focus is on domestic tourism. In fact, it could even be said that domestic tourism became the saviour of the industry, following an 83% drop in international visitors in 2020 compared to in 2019.

Agencies and companies like Malaysian Inbound Chinese Association (MICA) identified the unique selling propositions (USPs) of each Malaysian state, and proceeded to market them online. 

An example would be Selangor’s Sky Mirror, the backdrop of thousands of Insta-worthy shots. That was how the industry leveraged digitalisation to cope with the pandemic, but Azrul Shah Mohamad, CEO of Tourism Selangor, also acknowledged that government agencies still had a lot to learn in this space.

As they’re not necessarily the most well-versed in digitalising the travel and tourism industry, it’s important that they engage and leverage the strength of players from the private sector to accelerate the learning process.

3. Learning of the hurdles in agritech & the opportunities they present

What’s commonly assumed to be a traditional sector is actually advancing fast. But one long-standing problem is still the assumption that agriculture is an “unsexy” sector to work in, which is why many farmers’ children opt not to continue the business.

Agritech could be a potential fix for this, as it takes away the need for manual labour and the high risks of traditional farming.

Some key areas in which the government is focusing on to grow Malaysia’s agritech include services like farmers’ advisories, peer-to-peer lending, traceability, digital marketplaces, and mechanisation platforms.

In the future, there should also be increased focus on impact investments, sustainable farming and development processes, renewable energy, and more.

Day 2

4. Expert advice on staying competitive in the e-commerce world

We’ve heard it again and again—the pandemic has accelerated the digitalisation of businesses, and with it, the growth of e-commerce.

How then can merchants ensure that they’re still seen in the red ocean?

Firstly, the panel of expert speakers comprising leaders from Lazada, JDMAas, and PG Mall, shared that merchants need to be familiar with the tools available to them, and actually utilise these tools.

And just because you’re an online business, it doesn’t mean that you can slack in the customer service department.

In fact, it’s much easier to be forgettable when you’re an online-only business, so making your customers feel like they’re genuinely cared for is all the more important in e-commerce to build lasting relationships.

Constant discounts and deals will not guarantee a lasting fanbase, so being able to smartly harvest the data at your fingertips and knowing how to tell an excellent brand story will help you be memorable.

5. A reveal of how subscriptions and rentals are the new ownership models

At Vulcan Post, we’ve been seeing an increase in subscription models being used for all kinds of businesses and products, ranging from bird’s nests to baby equipment.

It’s part of the sharing economy and could be a more sustainable way to ensure everyone can experience ownership of a specific product.

These models have even penetrated the energy and healthcare industries, as in the cases of Plus Xnergy and DOC2US.

Subscriptions and rental models are attractive because they reduce the immediate financial burden on customers and lower the barriers to entry for ownership of products. In a nutshell, they make it possible and more accessible for Malaysians of all income groups to benefit from a product or service.

With the pandemic’s effects on people’s financial situations, it’s likely that this is a sector we will see continuing to grow.

Day 3

6. Innovative startups battling it out at Selangor Super League 

After 2 long days of engaging and relevant panels, the much-anticipated Selangor Super League began.

In total, 20 startups went on stage to pitch their ideas and solutions, but only 5 would make it to the finals. To qualify, participants had to ensure that they had crucial and meaningful contributions that could assist the nation in its economic recovery efforts.

These 5 ended up being:

• Champion – eMLab, a biotechnology company offering laboratory services,
• 2nd place – POMEN, a car services and breakdown assistance app,
• 3rd place – GFI Fintech, a solutions provider for the financial industry,
• 4th place – NexMind AI, a software-as-a-service (Saas) cloud-based AI company,
• 5th place – GO LOG, an intelligent cold chain logistics platform.

These startups won cash prizes of varying amounts from a pool of RM30,000. At the same time, the Top 3 startups would get the chance to later pitch to international investors on a sponsored trip to the Dubai World Expo 2020.

-//-

Despite many of us only being able to attend SDEC 2021 from home on our laptops, it didn’t take away from the learning experience.

It was interesting to hear from experts where our nation is heading in terms of our current hurdles to overcome, our recovery strategies, potential opportunities across sectors, and more.

The only thing that could probably have made it better would’ve been to actually be there in-person to network too, but perhaps that will be more attainable once our nation is better protected against COVID-19.

• Find out more about Sidec here, and you can watch the full SDEC 2021 event here.

Also Read: 22 is not too young for life insurance—making sense of the confusing myths and facts

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

3 days of startup & digital economy insights by experts await you at SDEC 2021

[This is a sponsored post with Sidec.]

With all the business and lifestyle digitalisation that took place during the pandemic, a future Malaysia with smart cities and a thriving digital economy is no longer so far-fetched.

But much work still needs to be done to bring this vision to life. This is where Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) comes in to spur valuable discussions surrounding smart cities and Malaysia’s digital economy goals.

One of its main annual events since 2016 has been the Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC), which will be held in a hybrid manner this year.

At this convention, industry leaders, academics, SMEs, and key players from the private and public sectors are gathered to delve into the mechanics of existing and future smart city and digital economy frameworks and solutions.

Towards a digital economy

The event spans 3 days, from November 19 to November 21. For this year, SDEC comprises 3 core themes, each with its own corresponding events:

• Day 1: Embracing Fintech, Agritech & Travel Tech towards Economic Recovery 
• Day 2: Digital Marketing & SME Digitalisation Trends Post Covid-19
• Day 3: Pitch@Selangor 5: Selangor Super League

Day 1 and Day 2’s themes are broken down into 4 to 5 different panels, covering topics such as fintech disruption, post-pandemic travel and tourism, navigating funding in agritech, Malaysian e-commerce trends and opportunities, and the future of subscription business models, to name a few.

In total, there will be at least 35 experts speaking at these panels. They include representatives from notable companies like Aerodyne Group, Agrobank, AFFIN BANK, Green Packet, Agroz Group, AirAsia Farm, Avana, and more.

On the final day, SDEC will have a dedicated showcase and exhibition for startups to share their stories and products with attendants, as well as find potential partners and investors.

10 startups will be selected from Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP) 2018-2021 to be part of the startup showcase with 10 other startups from ScaleUp Malaysia and Sunway iLabs to compete to win cash prizes worth RM30,000. The top 3 startups will also win an all-expenses-paid trip to the Expo 2020 Dubai.

A proven track record

Those interested in joining the convention will be happy to know that you can purchase a 3-day pass that’s been discounted to RM79 (from its original price of RM200). It’s also inclusive of 1x breakfast, 1x lunch, and 2x tea breaks to complement your time there.

If you’ve yet to be convinced that this is an event well worth your time, we’ll let SDEC’s track record do the talking.

Since SDEC’s debut in 2016, it’s seen 5,000 to 8,000 participants in person per year. In 2020, it pivoted online to align with the pandemic’s SOPs and saw an even wider audience of 177,974.

This turnout broke its previous records, owing to the event’s online nature, and so SDEC 2021 has gone the hybrid route to the maximum benefit of participants.

Over the years, its showcased startups have also successfully done business matching and saw sales of up to RM77 million.

Based on its track record, SDEC is certainly not an event to be missed by anyone who wants industry insights and further networking opportunities for their own ventures.

• You can purchase your tickets to SDEC 2021 here.
• Learn more about the convention here.

Also Read: 22 is not too young for life insurance—making sense of the confusing myths and facts

Featured Image Credit: Sidec

43% of this accelerator’s alumni received funding, sign ups are open now

[This is a sponsored article with Sidec.]

It’s been more than a year since the pandemic broke out locally and we’re still dealing with its effects on our lives and businesses.

Companies had to shift to be more tech-focused or introduce low-touch engagement models, enabling them to deal with customers without the need for face-to-face interaction. This new model helped companies within the e-commerce, agritech and fintech industries to blossom during the pandemic.

While the demand exists, not all startups within that circle knew how to respond to the rapidly growing market.

Thus, the Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) decided to step up its efforts to help businesses realise their potential through the fourth cohort of the Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP).

One major change to SAP 2021 is a reinvigorated focus on agritech, greentech, smart city, fintech and e-commerce solutions. Sidec believes these verticals are key to the recovery of the local economy through digital transformation, increased adoption of tech in business and enhanced food security.

SAP has successfully nurtured 90 startups in their previous cohorts and 43% of them received funding after too. To get a better insight into the benefits of the programme, we spoke to two alumni of SAP 2020, HeyAlfred and Kapitani.

Fostering a community for their startups

HeyAlfred is a budgeting app to help users keep track and manage their finances. It also comes with a built-in AI chatbot known as Alfie, which will provide you with additional insights and tips on financial management based on your spending behaviour.

Adam Helmi, one of the co-founders and CFO of HeyAlfred, said that one of the most rewarding aspects of SAP was the sense of community built during the programme.

Despite the programme being conducted virtually, Adam still felt Sidec’s attentiveness to building crucial networking relationships for the startups, which was a major draw to him. It even led to HeyAlfred collaborating with other companies from the same cohort after graduating.

But collaborations aren’t the only benefits of the programme—Adam cheekily revealed that the team originally joined SAP for the “lucrative RM30k cash prize”. Jokes aside, he said SAP was a good platform to seek further validation on their product, have a better grasp on business direction and improve internal processes.

When joining SAP, you will be given mentors that’ll guide you throughout the process. The mentors chosen by Sidec will be experts in their respective fields as well, acting as a reference point for the startups to work towards.

Adam lauded the mentors assigned to them by Sidec saying: “The resident mentors will be there to help you from inception, right through to the visiting mentors guiding you in formulating effective go-to-market strategies.”

Helping startups to realise their vision

The team behind Kapitani wholeheartedly agreed with Adam’s statement on networking too. Kapitani is an agri-fintech startup that provides small local farmers with access to knowledge, capital and additional resources.

As an early-stage startup, they believed that the process of building networking relationships is a vital step, leading to more exposure, potential partnerships, collaboration and even funding opportunities in the future. Nazrul Hazeri Nazirmuddin, the CEO of Kapitani said SAP provided them with an unprecedented opportunity, especially for a startup without Series A funding. It helped them polish not just their product and business, but the skills of their core team as well.

Within SAP’s 3-month journey, Nazrul and his team were groomed to be investment-ready and obtained a solid understanding of business operations which they previously lacked.

As a startup in the agriculture sector, Nazrul understood they needed to have the support of the players in the industry and the policymakers to make the most impact.

Through Sidec’s connections to state agencies, Kapitani was given an opportunity to pitch their ideas to policymakers and get first-hand feedback from the government’s perspective of their product. To him, this was the most valuable benefit they’ve gained from the programme.

He continued: “SAP is one of the most well-run (if not the best) and structured startup accelerators in Malaysia organised by a startup-friendly, helpful and dedicated staff. Don’t think twice, just go for it as soon as the application is open.”

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With that said, if you’re a startup within the agritech, fintech, greentech, e-commerce and smart city solutions, registration for SAP 2021 is now open. 

Note: If you’re not within the verticals but have an innovative and disruptive solution, you can still apply for SAP 2021.

However, this year’s SAP comes with a new twist of a higher cash prize pool, thanks to a collaboration with AFFIN BANK, the first-ever bank to be the main sponsor of SAP, raising the cash prize pool of the winners to RM50,000.

In Adam’s words: “This is the perfect opportunity to turn your concepts into a business, rather than just telling all your friends about your next big idea. Just do it already lah!”

• For more information on SAP 2021, click here.
• Registration for SAP 2021 closes on July 14, 2021.
• Check out what we’ve written about accelerators in the past here.

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Featured Image Credit: HeyAlfred