Pikom champions Malaysian talent and innovation on the global stage

• Achievements highlight Malaysia’s diverse talent pool
• Urges M’sian talent to join global competitions for access, mentorship & funding

Pikom, the National Tech Association of Malaysia, has announced that Malaysian talents and businesses have demonstrated innovation and excellence on the global stage in 2024. Through strategic affiliations and participation in prestigious international competitions, the organisation has positioned Malaysia as a hub of cutting-edge technology, innovation, and talent.

Alex Liew, chairman of Pikom, stated: “This is truly a testament to Malaysian companies and individuals making waves in the global tech arena. Pikom is delighted to provide the platform for them to excel and be proud of their achievements.”

At the WITSA Excellence Awards 2024 held in Armenia this past October, Malaysia achieved significant victories, including:

• Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation receiving the Digital Opportunity/Inclusion Award (Public Sector) for its impactful SME Digitalisation programmes.
• Telekom Research & Development Sdn Bhd winning the Digital Transformation of the Year (Private Sector/NGO) award for their Mobile Intelligent Network Diagnostic System.

Dr. Sharlene Thiagarajah, CEO of TM Research & Development, expressed her pride in the achievement: “This award reflects our commitment to innovation and the transformative power of technology in driving the digital economy and solving real-world challenges.” She also emphasised the value of WCIT 2024, calling it an incredible platform to connect with global tech leaders, showcase innovations, and push capabilities to the next level.

The event also hosted the first WITSA World Cup, a global scale-up pitching challenge where Malaysian companies Pandai Education and Entomal Biotech, nominated by Pikom after national-level pitch selection, triumphed by claiming the top two spots, beating 14 other contenders from around the world. This platform provided invaluable global market access, mentorship, and exposure to venture capital for participants. 

Yanni Xinyan Ching of Entomal Biotech shared her thoughts: “Making it to the final two was a big win not just for us, but for Malaysia. To have our innovations recognised on such an international stage is proof that Malaysia is stepping up as a top tech and innovation hub. And we owe so much to the ecosystem that has nurtured us—our agencies, mentors, and invaluable grant support.”

At the ASOCIO Digital Summit in Tokyo, Malaysian tech professionals, organisations, and companies nominated by Pikom were recognised with the esteemed ASOCIO DX Awards for their outstanding contributions to digital transformation. Award recipients included:

• Ministry of Digital – Digital Government Award
• Heitech Padu Berhad – Digital Government Award
• National Cybersecurity Agency (NACSA) – Cybersecurity Award
• Glocomp Systems (M) Sdn Bhd – Cybersecurity Award
• Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) – Public/Private Partnership Award
• Cyberview Sdn. Bhd. – Smart City Award
• VSTECS Berhad – Outstanding Tech Company Award
• PEOPLElogy Development Sdn Bhd – EdTech Award
• Ms. Catherine Lian of IBM – Women In Tech Award

These accolades underscore Malaysia’s capability to leverage digital technologies for economic and societal advancement.

In November, at the APICTA Awards 2024 held in Brunei, Malaysia’s nominees continued their winning streak, with five companies securing top-three finishes and two others earning Merit awards:

• Winner of Artificial Intelligence Category: myQuickHR Sdn Bhd for HR Avenue (AI-powered Talent Acquisition solution).
• First Runner-Up for Digital Marketing/Advertising and Marketplaces: CARSOME.
• First Runner-Up for Agriculture, Supply and Sustainability: Meraque Services Sdn Bhd for Hybrid AGV – RACE.
• Second Runner-Up for AI: NEXLAW AI.
• Second Runner-Up for Senior Student Projects-Solutions: Wesley Methodist School Penang (International) for Read Right.
• Merit for Senior Student Projects-Applications: Foon Yew High School for Obstacle Detection System.
• Merit for Junior Student Projects: SJKC Yuk Chai for SmartCycle BioFuel.
• These achievements reflect Malaysia’s diverse and robust talent pool, spanning from primary school students to scale-ups, public institutions, and private organisations. They also highlight the nation’s exceptional application and utilisation of technology in solving real-world challenges.

A Call to Action for 2025
As it looks ahead to 2025, Pikom invites Malaysian talents, businesses, and innovators to seize the opportunity to participate in global competitions. These platforms not only recognise excellence but also provide unparalleled access to international markets, mentorship, and funding opportunities.

“The success of Malaysian companies and talents on the global stage demonstrates the nation’s ability to lead in technology and innovation. Pikom remains steadfast in its mission to promote Malaysia’s capabilities and drive more participation in global events,” Liew said.