The inaugural APAC Technopreneurship Empowerment Conference (ATEC 2024) convened over 600 stakeholders from the government and private sectors on Thursday at the InterContinental Kuala Lumpur.
Officiated by Chang Lih Kang, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI), the event underscores Malaysia’s commitment to advancing technopreneurship. It brought together technopreneurs, academics, tech industry experts, government officials, and other professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region.
Jointly organized by the Centre of Regional Strategic Studies (CROSS), the Southeast Asia Research Center for Humanities (SEARCH), and Wellous Group Ltd, this pioneering event marks a pivotal moment for Asia Pacific’s technopreneurship landscape. ATEC 2024 convenes industry leaders and innovators to propel collaborative innovation and regional technology development, according to a statement.
During the opening ceremony, Chang emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration and technology transfer within the ASEAN region. “By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can drive innovation and solve common challenges more effectively,” he said. “Strengthening partnerships will create a dynamic ecosystem where technological advancements flourish, benefiting the entire region.”
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s advocacy for “Asian resilience” was highlighted by the Minister. “Asia’s resilience is evident in its proven ability to adapt, innovate, and overcome challenges,” he noted. “ATEC 2024 is vital in promoting technopreneurship and technological innovation, contributing not only to Malaysia’s national development and socioeconomic progress but also to the regional landscape.”
The strategic partnership for ATEC 2024 includes collaborations with key government agencies under MOSTI, namely NanoMalaysia Bhd, Malaysian Space Agency (MYSA), Bioeconomy Corporation, MIMOS Bhd, Cradle Fund Sdn. Bhd. (CRADLE) and Young Scientists Network-Academy of Sciences Malaysia (YSN-ASM). Additionally, the Malaysia-China Kuantan International Logistics Park (MCKILP) has also take part as one of the strategic partners to drive the development of biotech park in Malaysia.
“Malaysia is poised to be a central player in this transformative journey,” said Lee Chean Chung, Chairman of CROSS. “Our strategic location, coupled with a strong commitment from both the government and private sector, positions us as an ideal hub for technological innovation. Through initiatives like ATEC 2024, we aim to establish Malaysia as a beacon of technological excellence, driving progress and prosperity throughout the Asia-Pacific region.”
ATEC 2024 achieved a robust turnout of over 600 esteemed attendees, including representatives from government agencies, embassies, industry leaders, experts, academics, and stakeholders from various businesses. Participants engaged in dynamic discussions, innovative showcases, and networking sessions across four key sectors: Space Economy, Bioeconomy, New Energy Economy, and Tech Talent Economy. ATEC 2024 provides a definitive platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration among participants.
“We believe there are vast opportunities in the untapped potential we can harness from this conference,” added Ian Neo, Chief Executive Officer of SEARCH. “We are eager to see the new ideas and connections formed at this event, and we are confident that these interactions will propel Malaysian technopreneurs to new heights and advance technology in the region through cross-border collaboration within Asia Pacific countries and regions.”
“We are always passionate about amplifying our efforts in promoting technopreneurship and advancing innovation. This collaboration highlights Wellous’ long-term mission to empower and inspire tech talents and technopreneurs, accelerating the growth of innovation and entrepreneurship not only in Malaysia but also across Southeast Asia and the entire Asia-Pacific region,” said Andy Tan, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Wellous Group Ltd.
The conference, endorsed by MOSTI, is a culmination of a strategic partnership aimed at leveraging the collective strengths of CROSS, SEARCH, and Wellous to promote technological innovation and empower regional development.
This strategic partnership underscores the importance of public-private collaboration in driving sustainable development goals and creating lasting value for Southeast Asian communities.
Through joint initiatives in research, policy dialogues, and capacity-building programs, the alliance aims to advance Malaysia’s position as a leader in regional technopreneurship.