Sunway iLabs partners China International Capital Corporation to drive AI frontier in Malaysia and SEA

• Two-way bridge with Malaysia providing diverse enviro for adaptation, regional scaling
• Sunway iLabs role as bridge between global innovation networks and regional opportunity

Sunway iLabs, the innovation lab and corporate venture capital (CVC) arm of Sunway Group, announced a strategic partnership with China International Capital Corporation (CICC) at FutureX Connect in Kuala Lumpur. The collaboration aims to advance AI technology and deepen cross-border cooperation between China and Malaysia and bridge China’s and Southeast Asia’s innovation ecosystems.

FutureX Connect is part of the flagship FutureX Series that brings together startups, corporates and investors from across the region to exchange insights, build partnerships and explore opportunities in AI and deep tech.

“For Sunway iLabs, the collaboration offers access to China’s mature AI ecosystem and reinforces its long-term strategy of integrating innovation, investment and sustainable growth. By linking the two ecosystems, the partnership creates a two-way bridge where China contributes proven AI technologies and market-tested models. At the same time, Malaysia provides a diverse environment for adaptation, regional scaling and innovation exchange.” said Matt Van Leeuwen, Chief Innovation Officer of Sunway Group and CEO of Sunway iLabs.

“The partnership combines CICC Capital’s global investment expertise with Sunway iLabs’ innovation ecosystem, which marks a vital step in expanding China’s AI ecosystem beyond its domestic borders, enabling Chinese innovation leaders to pilot and scale pragmatic, application-focused AI solutions in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, and vice versa,” said Stephen Ng, Head of CICC Southeast Asia and South Asia, and CEO of CICC Singapore.

CICC Capital manages approximately US$60 billion in assets with expertise in capital formation, corporate advisory and technology commercialisation. Over the years it has established a track record of advancing frontier technologies through strategic investments in AI and deep tech innovation. Its portfolio spans semiconductor materials for AI computing, AI-powered healthcare platforms, automotive intelligence, mobile communication networks, and AI-driven cybersecurity solutions.

Partnership reflects momentum shaping next phase of AI development in Asia

The partnership reflects a broader momentum of cross-border collaboration shaping the next phase of AI development in Asia. As China continues to lead in pragmatic, application-based AI adoption and Malaysia emerges as a growing hub for digital transformation, the CICC Capital–Sunway iLabs alliance complements these strengths. Both organisations are laying the groundwork for new opportunities in digital infrastructure, AI commercialisation and talent development.

Building on its growing network of global collaborations — including with Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) — Sunway iLabs continues to position itself as a key connector between global capital, cutting-edge technology and Southeast Asia’s rapidly expanding innovation landscape.

Through this partnership, Sunway iLabs will continue to nurture high-potential startups, accelerate AI and deep tech adoption, and reinforce Southeast Asia’s emergence as a regional hub for innovation. Through flagship initiatives such as the FutureX Series, which will return in 2026, and FutureX Ventures Fest, Sunway iLabs will help bring global networks closer together with local talent to create a transformative, sustainable impact.

“Looking ahead, this collaboration highlights Sunway iLabs’ growing role as a bridge between global innovation networks and regional opportunity,” said Matt. By aligning with international partners such as CICC Capital, Sunway continues to expand Malaysia’s innovation capacity while strengthening the Group’s position as a key player in Asia’s digital transformation journey.

“This partnership also reflects Sunway’s long-term commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable growth through technology, investment, and education — empowering the next generation of innovators to build a smarter, more connected future,” said Matt.