The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has recently been honoured with the prestigious Startup Ecosystem Stars (SES) 2024 award in the “Exceptional Industry Support” category. This distinguished award, presented by the USA-based Mind the Bridge (MTB) and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), underscores MDEC’s critical role in fostering innovation and advancing Malaysia’s digital economy on a global scale. The award ceremony took place today in Paris, France, marking a significant milestone for Malaysia’s digital transformation.
The SES 2024 Awards are internationally renowned for celebrating outstanding contributions to the startup ecosystem. Organised by MTB and ICC, the awards recognise organisations that significantly impact entrepreneurship, digital transformation, and innovation worldwide. MDEC’s recognition highlights Malaysia’s competitive standing on the global stage as a leader in the digital economy.
At the award ceremony, MDEC was represented by the Trade Commissioner of MATRADE Paris, reflecting the strong collaboration between the two organisations. MATRADE’s support has been crucial in helping Malaysia expand its market access and strengthen its digital economy, demonstrating the collective effort required to position Malaysia as a global digital leader.
Anuar Fariz Fadzil, CEO of MDEC, expressed his pride in the achievement: “Receiving recognition at the Startup Ecosystem Stars 2024 Awards is a significant milestone for MDEC and Malaysia’s digital economy. This award is a testament to our dedication to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, and it highlights the success of our efforts to build a globally competitive digital ecosystem. We are proud to stand alongside global leaders in innovation and will continue to push the boundaries of what Malaysia can achieve internationally.”
This recognition celebrates the success of MDEC’s Digital Exports GAIN (Gateway, Amplify, Invest, Nurture) programme, which has enabled Malaysian tech companies to expand internationally. Since its inception in 2017, GAIN has opened doors to over 26 international markets, supported partnerships with more than 1,000 organisations, and connected Malaysian businesses with over 100 investors. These efforts have benefited over 500 companies, generating USD 31.9 billion in revenue and USD 11.2 billion in exports.
Additionally, through the Malaysia Digital (MD) national strategic initiative, MDEC has been instrumental in transforming the country’s digital landscape. By providing strategic support to over 262 tech companies, MDEC has helped them raise a total of USD 402 million through its Funding Facilitation programmes between 2020 and 2023.
This award not only highlights MDEC’s leadership in driving Malaysia’s digital economy but also reinforces the nation’s growing reputation as a leading digital hub in ASEAN. Through its continuous expansion of initiatives and the cultivation of an inclusive digital ecosystem, MDEC ensures Malaysian tech companies are well-equipped to thrive on the global stage.
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