by SHAUQI WAHAB
DIGITAL Minister Gobind Singh Deo (picture) said Putrajaya aims to enhance the nation’s digital ecosystem by facilitating the exchange of expertise and information between them and the state governments to boost local businesses.
He also revealed that several meetings have been held with state representatives to discuss relevant programmes aimed at fostering collaboration.
“The federal government is open to input on how we can help state administrations improve aspects related to technology,” he said in a press conference following the launch of the Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme by the Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec).
Gobind added that these programmes serve as platforms for states to learn from each other, while also involving local authorities and the private sector.
The Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme brought together 100 startups from the technology and retail sectors for training by industry experts.
He also highlighted the success of his ministry’s Gateway, Amplify, Invest, and Nurture (GAIN) programme, which has generated RM31.9 billion in revenue and RM11.2 billion in exports since its inception in 2017.
“GAIN has market access to over 26 nations, with involvement from over 150 Malaysian technology companies,” he noted.
Other key figures at the event included Selangor’s MB, Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, Selangor state officials, and Sidec’s CEO Yong Kai Ping.
The Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) has launched its 2024 Twin Accelerator Programme, comprising the seventh Selangor Accelerator Programme (SAP24) and the second Selangor E-Commerce Xccelerator (ECX24).
This initiative aims to strengthen the ecosystem for SMEs and startups in Selangor, focusing on areas like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Smart Mobility, Bio-Based Solutions, and Net Zero, with the ultimate goal of creating million-dollar companies that will contribute to Selangor’s GDP.
The Twin Accelerator Programme received over 550 applications, reflecting the strong interest within the entrepreneurial community.
The ECX24, a 4-month programme, offers participants business workshops, pitching courses, and mentoring from industry leaders such as those from Carsome and The Lego Group.
Participants will also have opportunities to expand globally, including a special programme by ByteDance TikTok in Shanghai, China.
Prizes for the winners include cash awards and Pos Malaysia credits.
SAP24, on the other hand, focuses on accelerating tech startups through mentoring, networking, and international outreach opportunities.
Notably, this year’s programme introduces a long-stay overseas trip for selected participants, tailored to their business focus.
“By next year, we hope we have the imagination to expand the program beyond Selangor and Klang Valley,” said Amirudin.
Since its inception, SAP has nurtured 190 startups, including notable companies like Nexmind AI and Borong.
The programme is supported by key partners, including AFFIN BANK, TikTok Shop, AEON, Microsoft, and AWS, highlighting a strong collaborative effort to ensure the success of Selangor’s growing entrepreneurial landscape.
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