Tag: #MDEC

  • MDEC Strengthens ASEAN Digital Ties with Launch of DEX Connex Philippines 2025

    MDEC Strengthens ASEAN Digital Ties with Launch of DEX Connex Philippines 2025

    Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has officially launched DEX CONNEX Philippines 2025, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Malaysia’s regional digital expansion strategy. This two-day initiative, held in Manila, brings together 49 Malaysian tech companies and 43 Filipino partners, setting the stage for enhanced digital trade and innovation within ASEAN. Organised under MDEC’s flagship Digital Exports (DEX) Programme, the event reinforces Malaysia’s commitment to fostering high-impact, cross-border collaborations. By facilitating market access and connecting industry leaders, DEX CONNEX continues to accelerate the global outreach of Malaysia’s digital ecosystem. The Philippines marks the first stop for this year’s DEX CONNEX programme.

    One of the key highlights of the launch was the signing of 14 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), symbolising strong bilateral interest in digital innovation. A major milestone was the MoU between MDEC and DBP Data Centre Incorporated (DCI), signalling a strategic collaboration to develop digital infrastructure and services. MDEC CEO, Anuar Fariz Fadzil, and Michielson L. Luakian, President and CEO of DCI, signed the MoU in the presence of key stakeholders from both countries. This partnership will focus on knowledge-sharing, innovative ICT solutions, and joint commercial ventures across Malaysia and the Philippines. The MoUs collectively reflect a strong commitment to digital transformation in the region.

    In his opening speech, Anuar emphasised Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional digital powerhouse through meaningful partnerships. “DEX CONNEX is not just a platform—it is a bridge for innovation and opportunity between nations,” he said. He further stressed the importance of inclusive and sustainable growth, highlighting that collaborative frameworks are essential to unlock ASEAN’s digital potential. “Together, we can elevate our regional tech capabilities and empower local digital champions to thrive in international markets,” Anuar added. His remarks underscored MDEC’s broader mission to drive impactful, long-term economic outcomes.

    The Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, praised the initiative and reaffirmed Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair in 2025. He said that digital connectivity, innovation, and inclusivity remain top priorities for regional cooperation. “Platforms like DEX CONNEX are critical in scaling innovation across borders, enabling our enterprises to grow together,” he said. He also acknowledged the role of public-private partnerships in shaping a stronger, unified ASEAN digital economy. The Ambassador’s presence reflected strong diplomatic support for MDEC’s initiatives abroad.

    The 14 MoUs signed during the programme involved notable tech players from both Malaysia and the Philippines. Among the key collaborations are Easystore Commerce with BilisBenta Corporation and LBC Express, IX Telecom with Eastern Telecommunications Philippines and RISE, and Enginemailer with KreativExpo Inc.. Other signings included GoFluence, ReSkills EdTech, FieldEx, and FinHero, with each partnership tailored towards knowledge exchange and business scalability. These alliances are expected to generate over RM150 million in business engagements, demonstrating strong regional demand for Malaysian tech solutions.

    Beyond just business development, DEX CONNEX Philippines 2025 also aims to foster a sustainable digital innovation ecosystem. Curated business matching sessions and knowledge-sharing forums will continue throughout the second day of the event. This structure allows participants to explore real-time commercial opportunities, co-develop products, and understand local market dynamics. It also helps identify long-term strategic synergies between Malaysian digital exporters and Filipino stakeholders. The inclusive approach ensures that small and medium tech players also benefit from international exposure.

    This year’s edition of DEX CONNEX builds on past successes in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, and previously in the Philippines. Since its inception, the programme has connected more than 180 companies and unlocked over US$271.35 million (RM1.196 billion) in regional commercial opportunities. MDEC’s ongoing efforts demonstrate a strong focus on export acceleration and high-impact digital diplomacy. By maintaining strong engagement with foreign governments and local industry bodies, MDEC is helping Malaysian companies scale faster and smarter. This reflects Malaysia’s vision for a globally competitive digital economy.

    DEX CONNEX Philippines 2025 is made possible through collaboration with the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila, MATRADE Manila, DBP Data Centre Incorporated, and local industry enablers. The programme exemplifies a united effort to support regional tech ecosystems through strategic cooperation and innovation. As DEX CONNEX continues to expand its ASEAN footprint, the programme remains a key pillar of Malaysia’s digital export strategy. MDEC’s leadership ensures that Malaysian digital talents and businesses stay competitive in global markets. The initiative continues on 24 April with more opportunities for collaboration and impact.

  • New Creative Grant Powers Malaysia’s Rise in Global Digital Economy

    New Creative Grant Powers Malaysia’s Rise in Global Digital Economy

    Malaysia is stepping up its game in the global digital arena with a bold move to fund its fast-growing creative industries. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has unveiled a suite of new financial incentives to boost the development of local talents and position the country as a world-class hub for digital content creation.

    Speaking at the Digital Creative Industry Engagement Session 2025, MDEC Chief Executive Officer Anuar Fariz Fadzil described the digital creative sector encompassing games, animation, and immersive experiences as a strategic industry with long-term economic potential. “This is a high-value ecosystem that generates skilled jobs, exports, and local intellectual property,” he said.

    He added that the newly launched programmes are tailored to strengthen the entire creative pipeline from nurturing talent and producing original content to enabling market expansion at the global level. “The industry is driven by passion and creativity, and our role is to support these creators in turning their ideas into viable, world-class products,” Anuar noted.

    Over the past decade, Malaysia’s digital content industry has recorded RM87.25 billion in revenue and RM11.18 billion in export value, while employing more than 11,000 Malaysians. These figures, MDEC believes, underscore the importance of further empowering the sector with targeted support.

    Among the new initiatives announced are three flagship programmes that focus on key creative segments:

    • Digital Games Testbed Programme (DGTP): With RM3.5 million in funding, this initiative supports at least five Malaysian-owned game development companies. Each studio is eligible to receive up to RM700,000 to innovate, expand their IPs, explore new genres, and establish international collaborations. DGTP aims to solidify Malaysia’s position as a competitive force in global game development.
    • Animation Shorts Challenge: Aimed at amplifying Malaysia’s animation capabilities, this competition-based initiative will support 12 local animators in producing original short films with strong IP potential. With RM1.2 million in total funding, the programme offers industry mentorship, technical support, and a platform to scale local talent to international recognition.
    • Business in Metaverse Programme: Targeted at 200 Malaysian businesses, this RM1 million programme offers up to RM5,000 per company to explore immersive branding using metaverse technologies. From virtual storefronts to gamified marketing and branded digital assets, the initiative is designed to help local businesses future-proof their marketing strategies and boost digital engagement.

    Anuar reiterated MDEC’s mission to grow a robust and inclusive digital economy that nurtures innovation, attracts global investment, and creates jobs for Malaysians. “These incentives are more than just funding they’re about building a sustainable ecosystem that gives our creators and businesses the tools they need to thrive globally,” he said.

    For more information on how to apply for these programmes, visit https://mdec.my.

  • MDEC Empowers SMEs with Malaysia Digital Grants

    MDEC Empowers SMEs with Malaysia Digital Grants

    The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), operating under the Ministry of Digital, has launched an ambitious initiative to accelerate the digital transformation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across the nation. This week, the focus is on Penang, as part of efforts to empower SMEs with the tools, resources, and expertise necessary to thrive in the digital economy.

    Announced earlier today by the Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo, the programme aims to foster collaboration and drive innovation among SMEs. It includes an engagement session with SME associations based in Penang, held at the recently inaugurated Zon Utara Office of the Ministry of Digital in George Town.

    This programme is tailored to address specific challenges faced by local industries in adopting digital transformation and scaling operations. It is designed to co-create actionable solutions with key stakeholders, foster a conducive ecosystem for digital enterprises, facilitate knowledge-sharing through dialogue sessions, and strengthen partnerships that accelerate digital adoption.

    In his remarks at the event, MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil emphasised the importance of leveraging technology for business growth, competitiveness, and sustainability.
    “Technology is no longer optional—it is essential in today’s fast-changing world. By embracing digital tools and innovations, SMEs can enhance their operational efficiency, expand their market reach, and build resilience for the future,” said Anuar.

    He further stated that MDEC remains committed to equipping SMEs with practical and effective digital solutions to boost their productivity and competitiveness.

    The initiative reflects the shared commitment of the Ministry of Digital and MDEC to building a robust digital economy that benefits all segments of society, from businesses to the rakyat. To date, RM30.96 million in Malaysia Digital (MD) grants has been awarded to Penang-based recipients, with 173 companies in the state already attaining MD status.

    “We are eager to see more businesses achieve MD status, which paves the way for innovation and contributes to the state’s growth and competitiveness,” Anuar added.

    MD status provides numerous benefits, including tax incentives, access to grants and funding, business-matching opportunities, and enhanced networking capabilities. These benefits aim to foster a dynamic environment that supports digital and technology-driven enterprises.

    To encourage more companies to pursue MD status and reap its benefits, the Ministry is planning to launch a new initiative that will offer tailored digital solutions to SMEs. This programme is expected to help businesses cut operational costs by up to 20% while addressing their unique challenges and aligning with their specific industry needs.

    “We are committed to identifying SME pain points and delivering customised digital solutions to meet their operational goals,” Anuar explained.

    The event also saw the presence of key dignitaries, including Penang Deputy Chief Minister II, YB Jagdeep Singh Deo A/L Karpal Singh, Digital Penang CEO YBrs Ts. Kwang Ming Ng, and leaders from various Penang SME associations.

    For more information on MDEC’s initiatives and programmes related to the digital economy, visit mdec.my or send your enquiries to clic@mdec.com.my.

    Penang-based businesses interested in these initiatives can also visit the Ministry of Digital’s Zon Utara Office at Bangunan U.A.B., Gat Lebuh China, George Town, Penang.

  • MDEC Memperkasa Digitalisasi PMKS & Pelancongan di Perak dengan Jelajah Malaysia Digital

    MDEC Memperkasa Digitalisasi PMKS & Pelancongan di Perak dengan Jelajah Malaysia Digital

    Perbadanan Ekonomi Digital Malaysia (MDEC), di bawah Kementerian Digital (KD), telah berjaya menganjurkan program Jelajah Malaysia Digital (JMD) @ Perak yang bertujuan untuk mempercepatkan digitalisasi Perusahaan Kecil, Mikro, dan Sederhana (PMKS) serta industri pelancongan di negeri ini. Program ini berlangsung di dua lokasi berbeza, dengan fokus utama pada digitalisasi perniagaan PMKS di Ipoh, manakala digitalisasi dalam sektor pelancongan menjadi tumpuan di Taiping.

    JMD merupakan sebahagian daripada usaha besar kerajaan untuk meningkatkan inklusiviti digital serta kelestarian dalam masyarakat Malaysia. Program ini menitikberatkan tiga aspek penting: adaptasi digital oleh usahawan PMKS, pengembangan pelancongan digital, dan penciptaan peluang pekerjaan digital, yang seiring dengan objektif utama Inisiatif Pendigitalan Perniagaan Bersepadu yang diluluskan dalam mesyuarat Majlis Ekonomi Digital dan Revolusi Perindustrian Ke-4 Negara (MED4IRN). Sasaran utama inisiatif ini adalah untuk meningkatkan produktiviti dan mengurangkan kos operasi perniagaan sehingga 20% menjelang 2030 melalui digitalisasi bersepadu.

    Di negeri Perak, MDEC telah melaksanakan beberapa program sokongan bagi membantu pemilik perniagaan mengadaptasi teknologi. Pada tahun 2023, bengkel seperti ‘Live Commerce’ telah memberi manfaat kepada lebih 250 pemilik perniagaan. Selain itu, sebanyak 34 penginapan di Perak telah berjaya mendapat pengiktirafan sebagai Hab DE Rantau, menyediakan kemudahan untuk nomad digital.

    Program JMD @ Perak kali ini juga menyajikan pelbagai sesi perkongsian yang memfokuskan pada kejayaan adaptasi digital oleh usahawan PMKS. Ia turut membuka peluang untuk perbincangan mengenai aspirasi kerajaan dalam memajukan industri pelancongan negeri dengan bantuan inovasi dan digitalisasi. Di samping itu, pengunjung program berpeluang untuk menghadiri bengkel pemasaran digital, mempelajari cara menggunakan alat digital seperti Google Workspace dan Microsoft Office secara lebih berkesan.

    Majlis pelancaran JMD @ Perak telah dirasmikan oleh Yang Berhormat Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Menteri Digital. Turut hadir dalam majlis ini adalah Yang Berhormat Tuan Loh Sze Yee, Exco Pelancongan, Industri, Pelaburan dan Pembangunan Koridor Negeri Perak, serta Yang Berhormat Tuan Howard Lee Chuan How, Ahli Parlimen Ipoh Timur, dan Datuk Fadzli Abdul Wahit, Ketua Pegawai Transformasi Digital MDEC.

    Antara rakan strategik MDEC yang turut terlibat dalam program ini adalah Bahagian Teknologi Maklumat dan Komunikasi Negeri Perak, Maxis Broadband Sdn Bhd, Beez Fintech Sdn Bhd, Ejen2U International Sdn Bhd, dan Loka Tech Solutions.