By Adam Azman
SHAH ALAM, May 15 — The Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (SIDEC) is intensifying efforts to help Malaysian startups expand globally, with a strong focus on high-growth sectors such as semiconductors, drones, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
Its chief executive officer Yong Kai Ping said the agency is positioning local startups to seize opportunities not only within Southeast Asia, but also in emerging markets including West Asia, Brazil, Kazakhstan and South Africa.
“Growing demand for technologies such as autonomous driving systems, robotics and AI-powered solutions is creating significant opportunities for Malaysian companies to expand internationally.
“We see strong potential in sectors such as drones, robotics, autonomous driving technology, semiconductors and AI-driven solutions, especially for industries involving ports, airports and agriculture,” he told Media Selangor on the sidelines of the ‘Selangor CXO Club Closing Gala’ at M World Hotel here last night.
Looking ahead, Yong said SIDEC is exploring tokenisation initiatives involving blockchain and digital assets, including applications linked to property, art and asset transactions.
He added that talent development remains a major priority, with efforts underway to attract experienced Malaysians working overseas to return and contribute to local startups, particularly in semiconductor, retail and tokenisation industries.
On the Selangor CXO Club programme, Yong said it was designed to help startups scale towards initial public offering (IPO) readiness, strengthen business fundamentals and secure funding opportunities exceeding RM1 million.
“Around 60 startups that graduated from SIDEC’s earlier accelerator programmes have since progressed into the CXO ecosystem and are now moving towards stronger business growth and capital market opportunities.
“Collaboration between the Selangor government and Securities Commission Malaysia will help produce more high-performing startups capable of entering capital markets.
“SIDEC, together with funding initiatives backed by Permodalan Negeri Selangor Bhd (PNSB), plans to channel more investments into semiconductor and AI-related startups moving forward.”
The Selangor CXO Club is an executive leadership and business acceleration programme organised by SIDEC to help high-potential startups and SMEs strengthen leadership capabilities, scale operations and prepare for regional expansion.
Yong said the programme also assists startups in preparing for capital market requirements, including due diligence processes, strengthening management structures, improving business models and boosting sales performance.
“The initiative will focus on helping businesses integrate AI agents into operations such as human resources, finance and business automation to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
“Participants will also be exposed to advanced AI tools involving coding, automation, website development, video generation and data-driven workflows beyond conventional chatbot usage,” he said.
