Selangor Journal: Ongoing support to Selangor startups via e-commerce initiative

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KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 – The Selangor e-Commerce Xccelerator (ECX) 2023 programme and its upcoming instalments should spur economic activities in the state and create quality job opportunities, said state executive councillor for investment, trade, and mobility Ng Sze Han.

Following its conclusion today, he said the initiative’s primary goal is to support and develop startups by providing them with an enriched ecosystem with proper mentorship and support, thus bringing long-term benefits to Selangor.

“We are creating more opportunities for entrepreneurs who want to grow and achieve the next stage in their businesses.

“The Selangor government’s role and responsibility is to help grow more startups and grow more business opportunities, particularly for youths,” Ng said during a press conference after the event at Menara Pernas today.

Also present was Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) chief executive officer Yong Kai Ping.

Under Sidec’s direction, ECX2023, which saw ten finalists shortlisted from 30 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) after an intensive three-month evaluation, is designed with a specific focus on supporting e-commerce startups.

In today’s pitching session, the finalists showcased their startups, and five were chosen as the winners, including Nori Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Pastels Group Sdn Bhd, Shapee Trading and Distribution (M) Sdn Bhd, Sonobee Ultrasound Sdn Bhd, and Big Bath Sdn Bhd.

The winners are to receive cash rewards and take part in a strategic business journey to Hangzhou — home to e-commerce giants like Alibaba — and access to the exclusive CXO Club, which offers them unparalleled networking opportunities opening them up for possible global expansion.

Meanwhile, Yong said ECX2023 targets RM1 million in revenue, one million users, and an exclusive spot in the CXO Club.

“The club aims to help entrepreneurs connect with other successful startups and match them with the right mentors to accelerate their growth.

“For Sidec, our vision goes beyond these startups with a domestic kickstart. We aim to push them not just regionally but also to horizons beyond our borders,” he said.

Yong also hopes the state government will announce an increased allocation in the upcoming 2024 Selangor Budget, scheduled to be tabled on November 10, to expand the programmes offering support to startups in the state.

“We want to expand programmes like ECX and the Selangor Accelerator Programme further to develop more startups in the state and help grow the state’s economy,” he added.

ECX2023 was introduced to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by the
rapidly growing e-commerce sector.

In contrast, Sidec’s SAP stands apart in supporting tech startups, particularly companies venturing into more advanced technological fields, like biotechnology and artificial intelligence (AI).

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