In May 2024, Brankas Enterprise Group Product Manager Sarah Huang attended the Malaysia mission trip hosted by the Singapore Fintech Association (SFA). Here are the major trends and insights gathered during the visit, highlighting Malaysia’s current and future plans in fintech.
1. Digital Capital Market Advancements
At the Securities Commission Malaysia, the congregation delved into the country’s ambitious digital capital market agenda, aiming to enhance financing access, increase investor participation, and develop synergistic ecosystems. Initiatives like SCxSC provide critical policymaking insights on Web3, AI, Regtech, Suptech, and cybersecurity, supported by government-backed funds like MyCIF and DIGID, which foster alternative financing solutions.
Visits to AEON Bank and Alliance Bank revealed their efforts to support SMEs and personal banking through strategic alliances and innovative products. AEON Bank is launching new personal banking products, while Alliance Bank is developing tailored solutions for SMEs, partnering with organizations to achieve sustainability goals.
PayNet’s DuitNow platform, processing 2.2 billion real-time transactions in 2023, exemplifies the acceleration of payment flows in Malaysia’s digital economy. TNG Digital’s eWallet, accounting for one-third of payment transactions, plans to expand cross-border services, driven by growing internet and smartphone penetration.
4. Supporting Startups and FinTech Growth
Organizations like MAVCAP, with over RM 2.6 billion in accessible funds, play a pivotal role in powering local startups and regional growth. Maybank and Hong Leong Bank are also actively supporting digital aspirations and startup innovation through initiatives like the Maybank Elevator Pitch Challenge and HLB Launch Lab.
5. Regulatory and Government Support
Engagements with Bank Negara Malaysia and regulatory firms like Christopher & Lee Ong highlighted Malaysia’s strategic initiatives to drive digitalization and innovation. The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and CGC Digital are crucial in supporting businesses to expand and empower SMEs through guarantees and developmental programs.
The Singapore Fintech Association mission trip provided invaluable insights into Malaysia’s evolving Fintech ecosystem, opening new avenues for cross-border collaboration. It was an honor to participate and contribute to the future of finance in the region. 🌏💼
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