THE National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) believes that the newly launched Business Digitalisation Initiative (BDI) marks a significant step forward in enhancing the digital competitiveness of Malaysia’s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), hence strengthening the nation’s overall economic resilience.
In this regard, PIKOM is impressed by the scale and scope of the BDI – made possible by the Digital Ministry and Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) alongside the SME Corp Malaysia – which brings together government agencies, financial institutions, digital banks, technology providers and local enablers to support MSMEs in their digital journey.
“It is a remarkable undertaking by the Digital Ministry, MDEC and SME Corp,” applauded PIKOM chairman Alex Liew.
“Uniting key stakeholders from across the tech and financial services landscape under a common vision requires strong leadership and coordination.
“Full credit to all parties for creating an ecosystem that delivers practical, results-driven support to our nation’s entrepreneurs. PIKOM fully support the initiative.”
According to Liew, BDI has the potential to create a ripple effect across the economy by enabling businesses of all sizes to embrace digital transformation, improve operational efficiency and unlock new growth opportunities.
He further commended Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo and MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil (main image, left) for their leadership in shaping and delivering the BDI.
In his reckoning, MSMEs should capitalise on this opportunity to assess their digital maturity and identify gaps while embarking on their next step toward a smarter, more agile and future-ready business model.
“Both Gobind and Anuar continue to make it clear that the BDI goes far beyond technology deployment,” justified Liew who is a highly respected figure within Malaysia’s tech ecosystem.
PIKOM’s clear mission
“It aims to create an enabling ecosystem that supports MSMEs holistically – including talent upskilling, access to funding, capacity building and affordable digital tools such as e-invoicing solutions based on the Peppol framework.
“The end goal is to ensure that MSMEs aren’t only ready for digitalisation but can also scale and compete beyond Malaysia’s borders.”
Renowned for his wealth of industry experience and ability to bridge the worlds of technology and business, Liew brings a strategic, solutions-driven perspective to digital transformation.
Since assuming the role of PIKOM chairman last December, he has injected the industry grouping with renewed purpose and direction which are backed by a council of forward-thinking leaders and subject matter experts who reflect the strength and diversity of Malaysia’s tech sector.
“At PIKOM, our mission is clear: To embrace change, adapt swiftly to the evolving tech landscape and champion the interests of our members,” enthused Liew.”
“Together with my fellow councillors, we aim to cultivate greater industry collaboration, harness new technologies and ensure Malaysia remains competitive on the global digital stage.”
As Malaysia’s national tech association, PIKOM represents over 2,000 companies spanning the entire ICT ecosystem.
It plays a vital role in advocating for progressive policies, facilitating industry dialogue and enabling innovation that benefits businesses of all sizes. – March 27, 2025
