Malaysia Unveils Startup ASEAN Platform to Boost Regional Innovation and Growth

Malaysia has officially launched the Startup ASEAN Platform, a groundbreaking digital gateway aimed at connecting and empowering startups across Southeast Asia. Announced on June 26, 2025, this full-scale rollout marks a significant step in fostering regional collaboration and innovation, positioning Malaysia as a key player in the ASEAN startup ecosystem.

Spearheaded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI) and executed by Cradle Fund Sdn Bhd, the platform serves as a unified hub for entrepreneurs, investors, and talent. It aims to bridge gaps between ASEAN nations by providing access to resources, funding opportunities, and networking channels critical for startup success.

Unlike its pre-launch phase, the platform is now fully operational with enhanced capabilities to support the region's burgeoning startup community. Malaysia targets onboarding at least 10,000 startups by the end of 2025, a bold ambition reflecting the country’s commitment to driving regional growth.

The initiative has garnered attention for its potential to unify Southeast Asia’s fragmented startup landscape. By offering a centralized digital space, it enables cross-border partnerships and helps startups scale beyond local markets, addressing challenges like limited access to capital and talent.

Industry leaders and government officials have hailed the platform as a game-changer for ASEAN’s innovation ecosystem. With Malaysia at the helm, the region is poised to strengthen its position as a global hub for entrepreneurship and technology, fostering sustainable economic development.

As the Startup ASEAN Platform gains traction, it is expected to inspire similar initiatives worldwide, showcasing how digital tools can empower emerging economies. Stakeholders are optimistic that this will catalyze a new era of collaboration and prosperity in Southeast Asia.