SAP24 WINNERS EMBARK ON INTERNATIONAL INNOVATION TRIPS TO THE PHILIPPINES, VIETNAM

SHAH ALAM, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- The Selangor Accelerator Programme 2024 (SAP24) winners embarked on two parallel international innovation trips to the Philipines and Vietnam from Nov 10 to 17, underscoring Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation's (Sidec) commitment to foster global collaboration and startup empowerment. 

Sidec chief executive officer Yong Kai Ping said the SAP24 winners consisting of local startups were divided into two groups of which the Philipines team travelled to PH Startup Week, while the Vietnam team went to the Vietnam Innovation Summit.

"In the Philippines, SAP24 winners Shieldbase, Alphaswift, V-Cred, and Home Sifu immersed themselves in the country’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem, focusing on AI (artificial intelligence) applications across industries such as finance, logistics, and healthcare.

"Meanwhile, another group of SAP24 winners, Qarbotech, Atoz Carbon Cycle, Zoala, and Vidanex embarked on a programme focused on sustainability and innovation in Vietnam," he said in a statement today. 

Yong said both countries were strategically chosen to offer diverse opportunities for SAP24 winners as the Philippines is an emerging market for AI-driven innovations, especially in fintech, healthcare, and logistics, while Vietnam provides fertile ground for sustainability-focused startups, with growing demand for biotech, agritech, and renewable energy solutions.

"Key highlights included participation in PH Startup Week, where the startups connected with international investors, partners, and industry leaders. The trip culminated in a Demo Day on Nov 15 at The Astbury, Makati. SAP24 startups captivated a curated audience of investors and industry players with their groundbreaking innovations.

"Additionally, the business matching session on Nov 14 connected SAP24 startups with 56 key stakeholders, including corporations, startups, and investors. Tailored one-on-one meetings facilitated meaningful discussions, allowing startups to present their innovative solutions and explore collaborations," he said. 

Yong also noted, that during the Vietnam Innovation Summit, Qarbotech proudly represented Malaysia in the International Track of the Startups Showcase, stood out among competitors from five countries and was honoured with the prestigious Outstanding Startup Award for its innovative solutions and impactful contributions to the global innovation ecosystem.

He said the startups also participated in the DEX Connex programme organised by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), connecting over 30 Malaysian startups with leading Vietnamese corporations, including FPT, TMA Solutions, and Vietcombank, through one-on-one networking sessions. 

"The Vietnam trip also included visits to Zone Startups Vietnam and other innovation hubs, providing insights into the country’s dynamic startup ecosystem and fostering meaningful collaborations," he said. 

Since its inception, the Selangor Accelerator Programme has supported over 200 startups, with 41 per cent securing funding and 79 gaining international exposure. SAP24 participants exemplify the programme’s mission to equip startups with the tools to scale and thrive in international markets.

-- BERNAMA