Modern Australian
Men's Weekly

.

Malaysia Launches Full-Scale Startup ASEAN Platform To Drive Regional Growth

PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 June 2025 - Malaysia today launched the Startup ASEAN platform, marking the full-scale rollout of a bold, unified digital gateway to connect and empower startups across ASEAN.

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and executed by Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd (Cradle), the platform's regional launch underscores Malaysia's commitment under its 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship to fostering inclusive innovation and economic dynamism across the region.

From left: Dr. Zurina Moktar, Head of Science, Technology Division, ASEAN Secretariat, Datuk Ts. Dr. Mohd Nor Azman Bin Hassan Deputy Secretary General (Technology Development), MOSTI, YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), Tuan Fabian Bigar, Secretary General of the Ministry of Digital, and Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group CEO of Cradle.

Unlike the earlier pre-launch phase, this official launch represents a fully operational rollout, equipped with critical capabilities to serve the ASEAN innovation ecosystem. The Startup ASEAN platform is designed as a comprehensive one-stop hub, offering startups direct access to regional market opportunities, funding, investor networks, talent development and ecosystem insights.

YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang, Minister of MOSTI, said "Malaysia is honored to chair ASEAN in 2025 and take the lead in building a truly integrated and empowered regional startup ecosystem. The Startup ASEAN platform is more than a digital gateway, it is a strategic enabler designed through collaboration with all ASEAN Member States to address fragmented access to market, funding, talent and data.

This launch marks the first major deliverable under the ASEAN Startup Technology Ignite 2025, and I would like to commend Cradle for its focal role in driving this initiative with all other ASEAN Member States. Through this platform, we are not only unlocking new opportunities for collaboration across region but also creating greater access for Malaysian startups to expand, scale and thrive in ASEAN and beyond," continued YB Chang.

"Today we witness the official launch of Startup ASEAN-a transformative initiative designed to serve as the centralised hub for all startups across our region. By seamlessly connecting entrepreneurs, investors, government institutions, and ecosystem builders across our Member States, this platform embodies ASEAN's unwavering commitment to deepening regional integration while unlocking unprecedented opportunities through technology and innovation," said H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN.

Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle, emphasised "Cradle is proud to lead this effort and contribute to ASEAN's growth through innovation. The platform is beyond technology itself. It is about creating opportunities within the startup ecosystem, strengthening partnerships and unlocking the potential of our ASEAN startups.

In addition to the regional database, the platform will host regional programmes aimed at strengthening cross-border collaboration among all ASEAN Member States and dialogue partners such as South Korea and China," continued Norman.

The ASEAN Startup Initiative, approved in 2023, appointed Cradle under MOSTI's mandate to lead its implementation. The initiative focuses on developing startup friendly policies, enhancing ecosystem readiness and driving impactful regional programmes and partnerships.

As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia's leadership under the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite programme signals a strategic move to position the country as a regional innovation hub. The multi-phased implementation includes:

  • Phase 1, 2024: Development and pre-launch of the Startup ASEAN platform,
  • Phase 2, 2025: Launch of Startup ASEAN platform, ASEAN startup programmes, capacity-building efforts and Startup ASEAN Summit
  • Phase 3, 2026 onwards: Establishment of the ASEAN Centre of Excellence for early-stage startups.
The hybrid launch event featured an immersive Startup ASEAN video tour, highlighting unique startup success stories and cultural diversity from all member states. Coinciding with the launch, Cradle hosted the regional market access session, ASEAN CrossConnect, matching 10 successful global mentors from ASEAN countries with startups from all over the region.

Cradle will continue working closely with all ASEAN Member States to enhance the platform's value, ensuring it delivers meaningful impact through improved access to markets, investment opportunities and knowledge exchange.

Please visit www.startup-asean.org
Hashtag: #MyASEAN2025 #StartupASEAN #MOSTI #CradleFund #Tech #Innovation #StartupEcosystem #Business








The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Understanding Trade Insurance: Essential Protection for Businesses

Image by Drazen Zigic on Freepik In the current economic environment, trade insurance is an important element for companies trading both locally an...

Choosing the Right Timber for External Cladding

Timber cladding is one of those finishes that pulls double duty: it makes a building look warm and welcoming, and it quietly shields the frame from ...

Top Services Offered by Diesel Mechanics in Brisbane

Keeping a diesel vehicle running at its best takes more than the occasional oil change. When you invest in regular specialist care, you protect the ...

Top 5 Benefits of Hiring Professional House Removalists

Moving day should feel like the start of a new adventure, not the end of your patience. Yet once the settlement papers are signed and the champagne ...

Navigating the Digital Landscape: Managed IT Solutions and IT Services in Townsville

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, companies must adapt to embrace the transformation ahead. With an evolving technology landscape, mana...

Types of Catering You Should Consider for Your Next Event

Choosing the right type of catering service can elevate your event from ordinary to unforgettable. Whether it’s an elegant wedding, corporate func...

Understanding the Benefits of Split System Installation for Your Home

Climate control is essential to maintaining comfort in your home, especially during the extreme temperatures that many regions face. Whether you’r...

Best Aluminium Window Sliding Designs for Natural Light and Airflow

Bringing natural light and airflow into a space is one of the most efficient ways to create a healthy and comfortable home. In Sydney and across Aus...

Maximising Operational Efficiency: Electric Winch Hire Australia and Hydraulic Power Pack Hire Solutions

Image by jcomp on Freepik From urban construction sites and remote mining operations to coastal maritime facilities, specialised equipment solutio...

Navigating the System: Your Guide to Support Finding Work with a Disability Around Melbourne

Image by freepik Finding the right job can be a challenge for anyone, but it can feel particularly daunting when you're also navigating life with a ...

Say Goodbye to Draughts and Hello to Savings: Your Guide to Perth Window Replacement

Image by prostooleh on Freepik Are your windows looking worse for wear? Are you paying a hefty power bill due to sneaky draughts and poor insulation...

How to Choose the Right Horse Trailer for Your Riding Needs

Many horse owners travel long distances for riding lessons, competitions, or to move horses between properties. Having a safe and reliable trailer i...

Sydney Turf Installer for Instant Green Lawns and Long-Term Performance

Having a green lawn at home makes everything look better. Whether it’s the front yard, backyard, or a small patch beside the driveway, people in S...

Designing Better Living Spaces: Why New Kitchens in the Blue Mountains Are in High Demand

The Blue Mountains region is seeing a steady rise in home upgrades. According to recent housing data, kitchen renovations remain one of the most req...

The Role of Packaging Manufacturers in Reducing Supply Chain Costs

In today’s fast-paced logistics and distribution landscape, businesses are under constant pressure to optimise operations and reduce expenses. One...

Customising Roller Shutters for Warehouses, Factories, and Logistics Hubs

In today’s fast-paced industrial and commercial environments, security, functionality, and efficiency are paramount. Whether you manage a busy log...

Top Fire Hazards in Commercial Buildings and How to Avoid Them

When it comes to protecting lives, assets, and business continuity, fire safety should be at the forefront of every commercial property owner’s ri...

Refillable Bottles and the Role of Reusable Caps in a Sustainable Packaging Future

As industries across the globe strive to reduce environmental impact, refillable bottles and reusable caps are emerging as champions of sustainable ...