Malaysia had emerged as a key player in the global tech landscape, showcasing its vibrant digital economy at the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition GITEX Global (GITEX) and Expand North Star (ENS) in Dubai.
With the support of the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), these events have generated over RM360 million in export opportunities – a significant 10% increase from last year, surpassing MDEC’s goal of RM300 million.
Together, these events created an ecosystem that highlighted the latest trends and developments in technology, making them must-attend gatherings for anyone involved in the industry.
Both events were held at the iconic Dubai World Trade Centre and Dubai Harbour, respectively, and have drawn 6,500 exhibitors, 1,800 startups, 1,200 investors alongside governments from more than 180 countries participants, including leading tech companies, government agencies, and venture capitalists (VC).
Highlighting Malaysia’s Digital Innovation
MDEC’s 120-square foot pavilion at ENS 2024 featured 15 innovative Malaysian companies, including Omni Nexus, Codon Genomics, Proximax Malaysia, Wilstech, Urban Mobility Asia, Forest Interactive, Redtone Digital, Xanderia, Ultrack Technology, Kasatria Analytics, Paywatch Malaysia, Modello Search, Numa Solution, MDT Innovations, and Vero AI.
These companies, spanning from various sectors, showcased groundbreaking technologies, from AI solutions by Vero AI to next generation distributed ledger technologies by ProximaX.
"These startups not only embody Malaysia's technological capabilities but also reflect our unwavering commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and innovation. Our participation in these events underscores our ambition to position Malaysia as a global digital economy leader, showcasing the depth of our talent and the potential of our technology on the world stage," said Anuar Fariz Fadzil, MDEC’s CEO.
The pavilion was inaugurated by the Consul General of Malaysia to Dubai, Mohd Fadly Amri Aliaman, alongside MATRADE's UAE Trade Commissioner, Megat Iskandar Ahmad Dassilah, further reinforcing Malaysia’s strong diplomatic and economic ties in the region.
Building a Robust Ecosystem
MDEC also spotlighted an additional 25 technology companies’ profiles at ENS and GITEX Global 2024, including Soft Space, IQI Holdings, Elliance, Juris Technologies, and Health Digital Technologies. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Malaysia’s presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regions.
Reflecting on the significance of these events, Anuar Fariz Fadzil added, "GITEX and ENS are pivotal for Malaysian tech firms. They provide an invaluable platform for networking, collaboration, and exploring new markets. This is where ideas meet opportunities, and we are excited to see our companies forge connections that will drive growth and innovation in the years to come. Together, we are not just participants; we are contributors to the global digital narrative."
Since 2017, MDEC’s Gateway, Amplify, Invest, Nurture (GAIN) programme has facilitated over RM31.9 billion in revenue and RM11.2 billion in exports. Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo remarked, “The GAIN program has successfully connected over 150 Malaysian tech companies with markets in 26 nations and organised over 1,000 one-to-one business meetings, showcasing our readiness to compete on a global scale.”
MDEC has developed strategic frameworks under the Malaysia Digital initiative to enhance and revolutionize Malaysia’s digital capabilities, harness technology and innovation to fuel sustainable economic growth, catalyse digital adoption across industries, and establish Malaysia as the digital hub in ASEAN. MDEC's efforts are evident in various programs aimed at facilitating digital exports, forging strategic partnerships, implementing pioneering programs, and actively working on trade opportunities for our local tech companies across the globe.
To be eligible for this mission, participating companies must hold Malaysia Digital status or be registered under MDEC's Gateway, Amplify, Invest & Nurture (GAIN) programme. Furthermore, they must demonstrate a global market presence and offer export-ready technology or intellectual property.
A Vision for the Future
MDEC aims to attract digital investments and forge vital partnerships, marking these events as key milestones in Malaysia's digital economy roadmap. As Malaysia strives to strengthen its international presence, companies participating in GITEX and ENS must hold Malaysia's Digital status and demonstrate global market readiness.
“Through initiatives like GITEX and ENS, we are not just promoting our companies; we are positioning Malaysia as a hub for innovation and technology in the region,” Anuar Fariz Fadzil concluded.
For companies interested in joining Malaysia’s growing digital ecosystem, MDEC invites applications for Malaysia Digital status, which is available HERE.
Follow MDEC’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube and LinkedIN for updates on their engagements during these prominent events.
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