The launch event, hosted at the Asia School of Business in Kuala Lumpur, was officiated by Selangor State Executive Councillor for Investment, Trade and Mobility, YB Ng Sze Han, and Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo.
At the heart of the initiative are two distinct tracks: the Selangor Deep Tech Xccelerator Programme (Deep-X) and the Selangor Retail Tech Xccelerator Programme (Retail-X). Both are tailored to equip participants with the tools, insights, and networks required to scale sustainably and compete in international markets.
Sidec expressed its sincere appreciation to AFFIN, the Strategic Banking Partner of the programme, for its ongoing dedication to fostering Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem. Sidec also acknowledged Plug & Play APAC as its Strategic Global Partner, whose involvement expands global opportunities for Malaysian founders. This year’s programme is further strengthened by leading ecosystem players such as Cradle, TikTok Shop, Xendit, BytePlus, AEON, DHL, and Shopline, underscoring the robust public-private collaboration aligned with Selangor’s digital economy vision.
“With Deep-X and Retail-X, we are not only accelerating companies but building a fully integrated ecosystem that supports founders at every stage,” said Yong Kai Ping, CEO of Sidec. “This programme is designed to produce global-ready entrepreneurs with the right tools, networks, and mindset.”
Deep-X: Scaling Malaysia’s Disruptive Technologies Globally
Deep-X focuses on AI-driven startups in verticals such as agritech, biotech, healthtech, robotics, semiconductors, sustainability, and net-zero innovation. Over a 12-week period, participants will receive targeted mentorship, market access, investor engagement opportunities, and benefits valued at over RM300,000.
Top-performing Deep-X startups will be selected for an international innovation mission to Plug & Play in Silicon Valley, where they will pitch to global investors, connect with top-tier accelerators, and explore strategic partnerships.
Applications for Deep-X are open until 20 July 2025, with selected startups also set to pitch and exhibit at the Selangor Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) 2025.
Retail-X: Empowering Consumer-Facing SMEs for the Future
Running in parallel, Retail-X is geared toward high-growth B2C SMEs in industries such as fashion, lifestyle, food & beverage, home living, health, beauty, and wellness. The programme emphasizes modern solutions including AI-powered marketing, smart inventory systems, and omnichannel growth strategies.
Retail-X will conclude with a Final Demo Day, where top-performing SMEs will pitch to investors. Winners stand to receive RM50,000 in cash and perks, brand exposure, and a fully sponsored Sidec World Stage Venture trip to ByteDance HQ, featuring behind-the-scenes access to TikTok Shop’s cutting-edge commerce innovation.
Applications for Retail-X close on 13 July 2025.
Building a Fully Integrated Innovation Ecosystem
The Selangor Twin Accelerator is supported by a comprehensive network of capital providers, technology enablers, and academic institutions, offering participants a clear pathway from ideation to market expansion.
Confirmed venture capital (VC) partners include: Artem Ventures, Gobi Partners, Gen AI Fund, 500 Global, Venture Rock, Ignite, Permodalan Negeri Selangor Berhad (PNSB), and First Move Fund.
Equity crowdfunding (ECF) platforms onboard include: pitchIN, Ata Plus, and MyStartr.
Technology partners contributing digital infrastructure, cloud credits, and platform tools include: Google Cloud, Alibaba Cloud, and BytePlus.
Additionally, the programme collaborates with universities and research institutions to provide access to technical expertise, R&D validation, and talent development. Sidec’s broader partner network also enables market linkages, investor access, and cross-border collaborations.
A Decade of Impact, A Vision for the Future
The 2025 edition of the Twin Accelerator coincides with Sidec’s 10th anniversary. Since inception, Sidec has supported over 320 startups, facilitated RM203 million in fundraising, and provided regional exposure through international missions.
Looking forward, the Twin Accelerator forms a critical pillar of Sidec’s strategy to nurture 500 startups by 2030, aligning closely with Selangor and Malaysia’s digital economy transformation agenda.
