Vivy Yusof, has transformed her passion into a successful venture. A London School of Economics graduate, Vivy started as a blogger and evolved into a prominent entrepreneur, co-founding The dUCk Group and leading The FV Group. Under her leadership, these brands have become a Malaysian e-commerce fashion empire, with dUCk becoming a cult label. Vivy's journey showcases how dedication and vision can turn passion into a thriving global brand.

Andrew Yap, has transformed a passion into a global phenomenon. As the co-founder of BookXcess and Big Bad Wolf Ventures, Andrew is committed to making books more affordable and accessible. His mission to spread literacy has seen him bring joy to over five million readers, selling more than 30 million books in 34 cities across 13 countries and territories. Through his work, Andrew is making books the "New Coffee" for knowledge seekers worldwide.

Ben Lim founded NEXEA in 2015, and today it invests & supports Startups with over RM1 billion in revenues in total. NEXEA connects Startups with 50+ Angel Investors, 20+ Corporate Partners, and all relevant Government agencies. 

Thinesh Kumar, has harnessed his expertise to drive significant impact. After earning a Business Management degree from KDU Penang University College, Thinesh became the CEO of Lapasar.com in 2017, focusing on digitizing small businesses in Malaysia. His leadership has helped modernize commerce, enabling local enterprises to thrive in the digital age. Thinesh's journey reflects how dedication and vision can transform industries and empower communities.

Dr. Ingky serves as the Board President for various early stage startups, bringing to the table his rich experience as a medical dermatologist and a seasoned entrepreneur with three successful business exits. His prowess in social media marketing, where he has garnered over 1 million followers, is a testament to his ability to amplify brand presence and consumer engagement. Due to his unique blend of medical expertise and business acumen, Dr Ingky is currently an advisor, mentor and his commitment to mentoring new entrepreneurs underlines his dedication to nurturing the next generation of business leaders and innovators in the tech space.

Thomas Yip, with over 17 years in the CAD software industry, founded Radica Software and led it to a successful acquisition, excelling in product vision, market positioning, and growth strategies. As the Software Engineering Director at Siemens Digital Industries Software, he drives innovation and operational excellence. His expertise includes financial analysis, marketing, and HR management. Additionally, Thomas mentors early-stage startups, dedicated to fostering future tech leaders.

Vykintas Mineikis is the Regional Senior Operations Director at ZALORA, overseeing operations across multiple countries in Southeast Asia. He has helped to scale ZALORA operations from ground zero and monetize on its fulfillment infrastructure. He has a strong background in e-commerce, start-ups, operations, strategy, lean management, WMS and tech. Vykintas is also involved in angel investing and mentoring startups.

Ben Lim founded NEXEA in 2015, and today it invests & supports Startups with over RM1 billion in revenues in total. NEXEA connects Startups with 50+ Angel Investors, 20+ Corporate Partners, and all relevant Government agencies. 

Vivy Yusof, has transformed her passion into a successful venture. A London School of Economics graduate, Vivy started as a blogger and evolved into a prominent entrepreneur, co-founding The dUCk Group and leading The FV Group. Under her leadership, these brands have become a Malaysian e-commerce fashion empire, with dUCk becoming a cult label. Vivy's journey showcases how dedication and vision can turn passion into a thriving global brand.

Andrew Yap, has transformed a passion into a global phenomenon. As the co-founder of BookXcess and Big Bad Wolf Ventures, Andrew is committed to making books more affordable and accessible. His mission to spread literacy has seen him bring joy to over five million readers, selling more than 30 million books in 34 cities across 13 countries and territories. Through his work, Andrew is making books the "New Coffee" for knowledge seekers worldwide.

Thinesh Kumar Asogan, has harnessed his expertise to drive significant impact. After earning a Business Management degree from KDU Penang University College, Thinesh became the CEO of Lapasar.com in 2017, focusing on digitizing small businesses in Malaysia. His leadership has helped modernize commerce, enabling local enterprises to thrive in the digital age. Thinesh's journey reflects how dedication and vision can transform industries and empower communities.

Dr. Ingky serves as the Board President for various early stage startups, bringing to the table his rich experience as a medical dermatologist and a seasoned entrepreneur with three successful business exits. His prowess in social media marketing, where he has garnered over 1 million followers, is a testament to his ability to amplify brand presence and consumer engagement. Due to his unique blend of medical expertise and business acumen, Dr Ingky is currently an advisor, mentor and his commitment to mentoring new entrepreneurs underlines his dedication to nurturing the next generation of business leaders and innovators in the tech space.

Thomas Yip, with over 17 years in the CAD software industry, founded Radica Software and led it to a successful acquisition, excelling in product vision, market positioning, and growth strategies. As the Software Engineering Director at Siemens Digital Industries Software, he drives innovation and operational excellence. His expertise includes financial analysis, marketing, and HR management. Additionally, Thomas mentors early-stage startups, dedicated to fostering future tech leaders.

Vykintas Mineikis is the Regional Senior Operations Director at ZALORA, overseeing operations across multiple countries in Southeast Asia. He has helped to scale ZALORA operations from ground zero and monetize on its fulfillment infrastructure. He has a strong background in e-commerce, start-ups, operations, strategy, lean management, WMS and tech. Vykintas is also involved in angel investing and mentoring startups.

Ex entrepreneur with 13 years of experience in management, marketing, and ecosystem building across multiple industries. Currently serving as the VP of Strategic Alliances & Partnerships at Alliance Bank, he has spearheaded initiatives that have driven significant revenue growth and help earned industry recognition, including "Best SME Bank in Malaysia."

Leading multiple portfolios of Sales and Marketing related solutions targeting to help Malaysian MSMEs to digitalize their business. An enthusiast with strong passion in technology, data in business development. Carrying along a vast background especially in the digital and marketplace space. Spent 11 years building and monetising Malaysia #1 C2C Marketplace assuming different kind of hats which includes, product management, product development, operation, business development, partnership and business directing.

Mohamad Yusman Ammeran has over 18 years of experience in the ICT industry, starting as a service engineer before joining TM, where he held various leadership roles, including Head of Product and Innovation at TMOne and CEO of a TM subsidiary. Currently the Vice President of Unifi Business, Yusman is responsible for empowering PMKS businesses through technology adoption and digital transformation. His efforts help boost productivity, competitiveness, and participation in the global supply chain. Under his leadership, Unifi Business won the Best Fixed Broadband Business Award at PC.COM in 2023.

Liew, a Royal Military College alumnus, completed undergraduate and graduate schools in the USA under scholarships and former top market analyst, founded MDT Group with 42 IPs and USD 30 million in FDI. He advances Malaysia's ICT sector through MDEC, MOSTI, and global events, and is an Adjunct Professor at UTAR, honored as MBOT Senior Technologist at ENTICE 2024.

Shibu Vadaketh is an accomplished executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic planning, M&A, technology audits, and operations across the US, Asia, Australia, and Europe. With 20 years in the technology industry and a decade leading a successful consulting firm, he has worked with government agencies and presented high-impact projects to economic leaders. Shibu serves as a Technology Fellow at the Asia School of Business, co-founded Capital Path, and advises PFAN on climate projects. An entrepreneur and mentor, he has founded startups and established programs supporting entrepreneurship and Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Matt is the Chief Innovation Officer of Sunway Group and CEO of Sunway iLabs, an innovation ecosystem for entrepreneurs. With a background in commercialization at PlaTCOM Ventures and entrepreneurial experience from three startups in the UK, Singapore, and Malaysia, he has a deep understanding of innovation. Before entrepreneurship, Matt was a consultant at Cambridge-MIT Institute and an Analyst at Imperial Innovations. He holds a BSc in Biomedical Sciences and an MSc in Science & Business from Utrecht University. Recognized as a 2020 Personality of the Year by PC.com and Business Today, Matt continues to drive impactful innovation at Sunway iLabs.

Since 2019, Idzat Naqeuddin has led Doople Tech as its founder and principal shareholder, with over 9 years of experience in the photovoltaic industry. He holds multiple patents, particularly in Solar Grid Connected Photovoltaic (GCPV) design, and is recognized as a Green Technology Professional by Lembaga Teknologis Malaysia. Idzat’s entrepreneurial success has been highlighted by his top 3 ranking in the Entrepreneurship Program by Angel Investors, showcasing both his technical expertise and business acumen.

Before joining The Hive Southeast Asia, Watson worked as a management consultant and buy-side investment analyst at a boutique investment bank in Malaysia. He also interned at Khazanah Research Institute and the UK National Audit Office. His experience has given him the ability to analyze companies at various stages of the investment cycle. As a Principal at The Hive Southeast Asia, Watson focuses on evaluating investment opportunities and managing early-stage portfolios. He holds a Master's in Management Science (Decision Sciences) from the London School of Economics and a First-Class Honors Bachelor's in Financial Economics from the University of Essex.

Kristina is the COO of ASB, overseeing campus operations, HR, finance, IT, marketing, and communications. She spent 30 years at Bank Negara Malaysia, where she led teams in HR development, strategy, corporate planning, international relations, and financial services negotiations for Malaysia’s free trade agreements. Kristina holds a BA in Economics from the University of Malaya and an MA in Economics & Social Studies from the University of Manchester, both under Bank Negara scholarships. She is also a Certified Professional in Learning Performance (CPLP) from the Association of Talent Development, USA.

With 9 years in entrepreneurship, his expertise spans idea validation, social impact, pitch deck creation, and fundraising. In 2016, he founded Grub Cycle, securing over RM 1 million from grants, competitions, and investors. As a serial entrepreneur, he pioneered sustainability-focused ventures like Pasar Grub and Oililin. He has earned accolades and represented Malaysia globally. Currently, he is using his experience and network to create an ecosystem hub at Asia School of Business.

Poh is the Founder and CEO of QuinRiver Capital. Previously, he was a Partner at AHAM Capital Asset Management's private equity arm and Head of M&A at RHB Investment Bank. He also worked in Hong Kong at a hedge fund and a boutique M&A firm, and started his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Kuala Lumpur and London. Currently, Poh serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee at Public Packages Holdings Berhad. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney, is a CFA charter holder, and a Fellow of CPA Australia.

Poh is the Founder and CEO of QuinRiver Capital. Previously, he was a Partner at AHAM Capital Asset Management's private equity arm and Head of M&A at RHB Investment Bank. He also worked in Hong Kong at a hedge fund and a boutique M&A firm, and started his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Kuala Lumpur and London. Currently, Poh serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chairman of the Audit & Risk Committee at Public Packages Holdings Berhad. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Sydney, is a CFA charter holder, and a Fellow of CPA Australia.

Adlin is the Managing Director of Endeavor Malaysia. He is an experienced digital leader, equipped with deep knowledge in the technology sphere and strong P&L management skills. He focuses on driving excellence through good leadership and empowerment. Prior to joining Endeavor, Adlin has co-founded 4 tech companies across different industries. He has also served large MNCs and corporates on digital transformation initiatives and venture building efforts. As the Managing Director of Endeavor Malaysia, Adlin aims to grow and strengthen the Malaysian chapter to create a large and long-lasting impact for the local ecosystem

Farhan is the founder of Products2U, a platform that connects sellers with resellers, making it easier for anyone to start their own business. His mission is to empower entrepreneurs by offering access to a wide range of products at competitive prices, with no upfront costs, and have been making headways since beginning his journey 3 years ago, serving a total of 5,000 monthly active agents nationwide and growing.

Effon Khoo founded Kakitangan.com in 2015, a platform serving 10,000 companies and 150,000 employees in Malaysia, managing payroll of RM 250 million monthly. Previously, he was a General Manager at NASDAQ-listed CCIH, turning a business unit profitable in a year. Effon also spent five years in Microsoft Office R&D, contributing to key products like Office 365 and OneNote.

Bryan Loo, the award-winning entrepreneur best known for making Tealive the top lifestyle tea brand in South-east Asia, wants to bring joy to people’s lives through tea, modernise tea-drinking culture and make it the “New Coffee”. Envisioning Tealive as a brand that’s “Born in Malaysia, Raised for The World”, Bryan quickly scaled up to about 900 outlets serving 5.5 million consumers each month in 10 countries – Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, United Kingdom, Canada, Cambodia, Australia, Brunei and Mauritius.

YB Tuan Mohd Rafizi bin Ramli is the Minister of Economy effective 3rd December 2022, overseeing the nation's medium and long-term socioeconomic development planning. He is currently the Deputy President of the People's Justice Party (PKR) and Member of Parliament for Pandan.

Neelofa has made a name for herself in showbiz and is a sought-after figure in fashion and beauty who has collaborated with some of the world's most recognisable companies. She is also a successful businesswoman, heading the Naelofar hijab firm. She also established Nilofa, an eco-friendly fruit milk firm, and TheNoor, an Islamic content mobile app, lighting up the life of every muslim and an app that's handy and accessible at any point of time.

A supporter of Gobi’s efforts to expand in ASEAN since 2014, Jamal joined the firm in 2019 and is overseeing operations and investment activities at Gobi’s Kuala Lumpur office. He has 15 years of experience in equity research, investment evaluation, corporate finance, merger and acquisition, and an additional 14 years of experience in Venture Capital. Prior to Gobi, he was the CEO of MAVCAP, Malaysia’s largest venture capital firm, which has directly and indirectly invested in over 1,100 startups since 2001. While at MAVCAP, Jamal shifted the company’s strategic direction to focus on raising funds from the private sector and managing funds with local and international VC partners, including 500 Startups, Elixir Capital, Gobi Partners, Vynn Capital and Intres Capital.

YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib is Member of Parliament (MP) of Malaysia for Mukah (P213) since May 2018. She is currently the Deputy Minister of Economy of Malaysia in the Unity Government. During YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib first term as MP, she served as Deputy Ministry in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Sabah and Sarawak Affairs from March 2020 to November 2022. She played a key role in coordinating and supporting the negotiation process of implementing Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63).

Boon Kim San (Boon) is the Head of Digital Business & Innovation for Group Enterprise Banking, Affin Bank Bhd., with experience in managing digital transformation for Enterprise Business divisions. He has more than 10 years in implementing technology, digital customer experience and team management, his background inform him mindful on digital and innovative approach.

Mr. Fabian was appointed Secretary General of the Ministry of Digital on June 23, 2024. As the leader behind MYCentre4IR, he is known for his exceptional leadership, dedication, and passion for excellence, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he has worked with. He played a pivotal role in the formation of MyDIGITAL Corporation and MYCentre4IR, shaping them into what they are today. His mantra, "solve the problem first," remains a cornerstone of the team's work culture. Leading with wisdom and compassion, Mr. Fabian consistently shares his knowledge and experience, guiding the team through challenges with poise and determination.

Stephanie is a highly accomplished entrepreneur with a strong academic background and a wealth of experience in both technology and real estate. She graduated in the top 5% of her class at Stanford University, where she earned a BA in Economics and an MS in Management Science and Engineering. With 14 years of experience in the United States, including a key role as Head of Business Development and Investor Relations at Axis REIT, Stephanie combined her knowledge of technology and real estate to launch WORQ, a leading coworking space and real estate innovation company in Malaysia.

Andrew is co-founder & CFO of WORQ, where he heads strategy, operations, marketing, and finance. He was previously a Fund Manager at CIMB-Principal. He rose from Associate to Fund Manager within 3 years and was tasked to manage a fund worth RM30mil. Andrew’s internal portfolio significantly outperformed the overall fund’s returns in a tough economic environment. As a banking analyst, 70% of his stock calls were ahead of market consensus, which helped optimize capital allocation for his clients. Andrew graduated from the University of Michigan with degrees in Financial Mathematics and Economics. He was a CFA Charterholder from 2014 to 2018.

Thinesh Kumar Kamalagaran is the CEO of MindAppz, a pioneering platform established in 2018. MindAppz serves as a specialized online education marketplace catering to the region, providing a seamless and secure shopping experience for both buyers and sellers. MindAppz is committed to continuous platform enhancement. Its vision is to become the top Education eCommerce destination in the region, offering exceptional value and meeting the diverse needs of its users.

Izzairi is the co-founder and CEO of TheNoor. The company's ambitious objective is to become the foremost Muslim lifestyle app globally, aiming for rapid growth and widespread adoption among Muslims worldwide. Their goal is to have TheNoor app seamlessly integrate into the daily lives of users, facilitating the practice of Islamic habits and values for a more enriched lifestyle.

Dato' Fadzli Shah is the CEO of MX Global, a cryptocurrency exchange licensed by the Securities Commission Malaysia (RMO-DAX). He has been a long time advocate for Malaysia's digital economy and 4th industrial revolution. Previously, he was the Chief Strategy Officer of MDEC, President of the Technopreneurs Association of Malaysia (TEAM), founding partner at SEAsia focused Team Venture Capital and a serial tech entrepreneur. Dato' Fadzli is also currently advisor to multiple companies involved in Blockchain technology including eInvoicing, NFTs, provenance/traceability, Initial Exchange Offerings and Sino-Malaysia cross border development (Zetrix).

Mr. A.Balasubramaniam (Bala) is the Director of Digital Export Division at Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), an agency under Ministry Of Communications & Digital, focused on facilitating the success of Malaysia Digital (formerly known as MSC Malaysia), Digital Economy and the companies operating in it. He has played a pivotal role in attracting foreign venture capital to Malaysia since 2013 and has worked closely with the Securities Commission to shape policies and incentives for venture capitalists. Bala's strategic inputs were instrumental in revising incentives for the venture capital industry in the 2018 budget.

Datuk Wan Razly is an experienced banker, having had solid banking experience in commercial and investment banks, both in Malaysia and Indonesia. He has more than 24 years of experience in corporate strategy, finance, investment banking, consumer banking, accounting and audit services

Andrew Yap, the Managing Director of BookXcess, is a self-made businessman who has revolutionized the book industry. His passion lies in providing affordable books to promote reading and improve literacy levels. Together with his wife and partner, Jacqueline Ng, they have successfully created an empire that offers English books across various genres at 50% - 80% off regular prices. BookXcess, known for organizing the renowned Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, has grown exponentially since its inception in 2006. With a keen eye for business and a commitment to accessibility, Andrew Yap continues to make a significant impact in the world of books.

Ang heads the Innovation and Industry Development Department under Technology Hub Development Division in Cyberview overseeing the Smart City initiatives and Cyberview Living Lab programmes covering the Talent, Accelerator, Pilot, and Enterprise pillars. Previously, he was a Regional Manager for Asia involved in business development focusing on attracting digital technology investment from Greater China. Ang has more than 10 years experience in industry talent development and talent analytics covering both scaleups & startups.

Alan is a founding partner and Principle Advisor for NEXEA, where he is responsible for overseeing the development of strategic initiatives for startups under their investment. He is a member of the investment committee and an expert in advising and mentoring companies on strategic growth and regional expansion. Alan has a proven track record of successfully growing startups, having co-founded and served as CEO of MediaBanc Group, the largest media monitoring and insights company in Southeast Asia, and expanding other companies such as Commsight to multiple countries.

Safuan Zairi is the Chief Ecosystem Development Officer for MRANTI. He and his team devote their passion and commitment towards accelerating the commercialisation of local technology and innovation. Currently at MRANTI, Safuan and his EcoSystem Development team manages the end-to-end Technology Commercialisation facilitation and intervention programmes which includes Incubation & Capacity Development, International Innovation Hub and Centre of Excellence, HealthTech as well as DroneTech.

T. Kugan was appointed as Chief Innovation Officer since 1" December 2022. Kugan has an extensive 20 years' experience in the Telecommunication industry. He was the Chief Emerging Business Officer at Celcom. Prior to Celcom, Kugan was the Chief Marketing Officer in Smartfren Indonesia and a board member for Sinzumas Digital Ventures responsible for the overall commercial business. Kugan started his career with Ericsson Sweden and has worked in various international market covering Europe, North Africa during his tenure with Ericsson Sweden before returning home to Malaysia and joining DiGi and Maxis shortly thereafter.

As the COO of 42 Malaysia (a joint-venture nation-building initiative by Sunway Education Group & Khazanah Nasional Dana Impak), Jeff spearheads a revolutionary education model that is inclusive and diverse to help Malaysia achieve its digital talent aspirations. He boasts a decade of experience in media and startups, notably with BFM Radio. Recognised as a delegate representing Malaysia at the inaugural 2015 ASEF Young Leaders Summit and a 2019 US State Department IVLP honoree, Jeff is a seasoned moderator dedicated to innovative education and ecosystem builder.

Karamjit Singh is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Digital News Asia. Karamjit founded Digital News Asia with a vision that media should play its role as the Fourth Estate and on the belief that timely, insightful and analytical coverage can help the tech ecosystem in South-East Asia, especially Malaysia, grow and develop.

Jesrina is the Founder and CEO of PurelyB (www.PurelyB.com), a leading health and wellness lifestyle brand in SE-Asia, elevating Malaysian superfoods onto the global stage. At PurelyB, Jesrina is dedicated towards the transformation of people's well-being and the empowerment of sustainable, health-conscious living – a mission deeply rooted in her own inspiring journey toward personal health transformation. Today PurelyB has 7 million+ users across the globe including Malaysia, Singapore, USA, Australia and France, as they champion sustainable healthy living harnessing the power of Asian traditions in wellness. 

Peter Wee is a member of Malaysian Institute of Accountants, Chartered Tax Institute of Malaysia, CPA Australia and is currently a business coach at the Asian School of Business/MIT MBA Program. He is a Partner at Nexea Group, an early stage Venture Capital firm in Kuala Lumpur and has been mentoring start up companies for the past 3 years. He is currently Advisor to two MNC companies.

Andrew Chee, the CEO and co-founder of RunningMen, holds the position of a prominent corporate food caterer in Klang Valley. With a solid background of 8 years in startup management, Andrew initiated his business during his university days. Over time, he successfully expanded his team, comprising of dynamic and inventive young individuals. Andrew places great emphasis on cultivating a strong company culture anchored in core values, having acquired extensive expertise in areas such as recruitment, team-building, business strategies, and organizational psychology. His ultimate objective is to revolutionize the hospitality industry by introducing cutting-edge ideas and implementing advanced technology.

Wan Murdani Wan Mohamad experiences encompasses the enablement of highly competitive and future-proof digital technology eco-system to transform Malaysia into a leading digital economy powerhouse. He also knowledgeable in telecommunication and information & communication technology (ICT) sectors and proven track record in developing and implementing strategic initiatives to ensure attainment of national and corporate aspirational outcomes impacting people, businesses and government.

Shashie Kumar, is the CEO of ATX Group, founded the business in 2011 to provide a digital value-added payment platform for retailers and mobile channel businesses in Malaysia to help supplement their existing business and increase traffic to their channels (i.e. footfall, web visits, downloads). We enable businesses to concentrate on their core business while using our platform and solution to generate extra revenues. ATX started with a single brand “Payhub” focusing on digitalizing bill payments collection at retail points with our first partner Astro. ATX now has 150 bill payments/reloads products with 31,000 touch points, 65 e-wallet partners and 65,000 agents via our various brands – Gopay, Mypospay and Runcit Hero. The company now has grown from 10 employees in 2016 to 35 employees with a revenue of RM 370M in FY2021.