Unlike the earlier pre-launch phase, this official launch represents a fully operational rollout, equipped with critical capabilities to serve the ASEAN innovation ecosystem. The Startup ASEAN platform is designed as a comprehensive one-stop hub, offering startups direct access to regional market opportunities, funding, investor networks, talent development and ecosystem insights.
YB Tuan Chang Lih Kang, Minister of MOSTI, said “Malaysia is honored to chair ASEAN in 2025 and take the lead in building a truly integrated and empowered regional startup ecosystem. The Startup ASEAN platform is more than a digital gateway, it is a strategic enabler designed through collaboration with all ASEAN Member States to address fragmented access to market, funding, talent and data.
This launch marks the first major deliverable under the ASEAN Startup Technology Ignite 2025, and I would like to commend Cradle for its focal role in driving this initiative with all other ASEAN Member States. Through this platform, we are not only unlocking new opportunities for collaboration across region but also creating greater access for Malaysian startups to expand, scale and thrive in ASEAN and beyond,” continued YB Chang.
“Today we witness the official launch of Startup ASEAN-a transformative initiative designed to serve as the centralised hub for all startups across our region. By seamlessly connecting entrepreneurs, investors, government institutions, and ecosystem builders across our Member States, this platform embodies ASEAN’s unwavering commitment to deepening regional integration while unlocking unprecedented opportunities through technology and innovation,” said H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN.
Norman Matthieu Vanhaecke, Group Chief Executive Officer of Cradle, emphasised “Cradle is proud to lead this effort and contribute to ASEAN’s growth through innovation. The platform is beyond technology itself. It is about creating opportunities within the startup ecosystem, strengthening partnerships and unlocking the potential of our ASEAN startups.
In addition to the regional database, the platform will host regional programmes aimed at strengthening cross-border collaboration among all ASEAN Member States and dialogue partners such as South Korea and China,” continued Norman.
The ASEAN Startup Initiative, approved in 2023, appointed Cradle under MOSTI’s mandate to lead its implementation. The initiative focuses on developing startup friendly policies, enhancing ecosystem readiness and driving impactful regional programmes and partnerships.
As ASEAN Chair in 2025, Malaysia’s leadership under the ASEAN Technology Startup Ignite programme signals a strategic move to position the country as a regional innovation hub. The multi-phased implementation includes:
The hybrid launch event featured an immersive Startup ASEAN video tour, highlighting unique startup success stories and cultural diversity from all member states. Coinciding with the launch, Cradle hosted the regional market access session, ASEAN CrossConnect, matching 10 successful global mentors from ASEAN countries with startups from all over the region.
Cradle will continue working closely with all ASEAN Member States to enhance the platform’s value, ensuring it delivers meaningful impact through improved access to markets, investment opportunities and knowledge exchange.
Please visit www.startup-asean.org
Hashtag: #MyASEAN2025 #StartupASEAN #MOSTI #CradleFund #Tech #Innovation #StartupEcosystem #Business
https://www.cradle.com.my
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cradlefund/
https://x.com/cradlefund/
https://www.facebook.com/cradlefund/
https://www.instagram.com/cradlefund/
https://www.youtube.com/cradlefundofficial
https://www.tiktok.com/@cradlefund
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Domino's Pizza Singapore has introduced a new menu item. The Thick Crunch Pizza is their…
Music fans in Singapore can look forward to an unforgettable evening as Resorts World Sentosa…
The familiar taste of KITKAT is now available as a chocolate drink in Singapore. Nestlé…
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore has partnered with Singapore wellness brand Luli to introduce an…
Thai rap sensation MILLI will make her long awaited return to Singapore with her first…
Crunchyroll has announced that it will stream the highly anticipated anime adaptation of Kagurabachi, based…