CTOS SME Biz Day in Johor Empowers SMEs to Embrace Digital Tools and Expand Regionally
As Johor accelerates toward becoming one of Malaysia’s most dynamic economic regions, CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 brought together more than 1,000 entrepreneurs, investors, and government partners to champion SME digitalisation, innovation, and regional scalability. Hosted by CTOS for Business, the event showcased a full-day programme of expert panels, practical guidance, and digital transformation tools tailored to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) ready to evolve in step with the state’s economic momentum.
Taking place against a backdrop of RM27.4 billion in investments recorded in Johor during the first quarter of 2025, the event underlined CTOS’ commitment to nurturing a resilient SME ecosystem. As a trusted data solutions provider, CTOS is doubling down on its role as an enabler of digital growth, especially in regions poised for transformation.
According to Lee Shin Mei, Chief Operating Officer of CTOS Data Systems Sdn Bhd,
“Johor is fast emerging as one of the nation’s most critical economic regions. There’s no better time, and no better place, for CTOS SME Biz Day to make its mark. While CTOS is proud to lead this initiative, the real strength of SME Biz Day lies in the collective effort behind it. Together with our partners, from government agencies to industry leaders, we share one mission: to empower and future-proof Malaysia’s SMEs and unlock their full potential.”
Accelerating SME Readiness with e-Invoicing, AI and the JS-SEZ
CTOS SME Biz Day was structured around three major themes – all strategically aligned with national policy shifts and regional growth drivers.
The first theme addressed the implementation of e-Invoicing in Malaysia, with experts from the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN) and AutoCount guiding SMEs through compliance standards, system readiness, and the long-term operational benefits of digital invoicing. With the physical receipt likely to become obsolete within the decade, the adoption of e-Invoicing is not just a regulatory necessity but a competitive advantage in improving efficiency and data accuracy.
The second theme – Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ): What Businesses, Investors & Innovators Must Know – helped SMEs grasp the unprecedented market access and bilateral collaboration opportunities emerging through this high-impact initiative. Featuring insight from MATRADE, MDEC, and SME Corp. Malaysia, the session served as a strategic roadmap for businesses aiming to scale cross-border. Experts advised SMEs to immediately begin leveraging ecosystem support, financial incentives, and training to build capability, capacity, and competitiveness – the “3Cs” essential for long-term success in the JS-SEZ landscape.
The third and final theme brought innovation to life through the lens of successful entrepreneurs who have transformed their businesses using AI, social media, and digital platforms. Leaders from MadebyAnjoe (Anjoe Skincare), Feruni Ceramiche, Luckin Coffee Malaysia, Hextar Retail, and Poh Sin Studio shared candid insights into how smart tools and data-driven decision-making are now central to branding, marketing, and scaling sustainably. AI, in particular, was recognised as a game-changer for SMEs aiming to automate, optimise, and personalise their customer engagement.
Building Forward with Digital Tools, Innovation and Strategic Support
In addition to the headline panels, attendees gained access to actionable strategies and solutions from technology and ecosystem partners including AWS, Mochi Technologies, POS Malaysia, Samsung, Setlary, Ford, Unifi Business, U Business, and Zoho. Topics ranged from sustainability and automation to financial wellness, further enhancing the SME readiness agenda.
CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 has already made successful stops in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and now Johor. Its final destination will be Kuching, Sarawak, with the event scheduled for 19 August 2025 at the Imperial Hotel, Boulevard Mall. The East Malaysia edition is expected to bring together a new wave of entrepreneurs and innovators, reinforcing CTOS’ vision of inclusive, nationwide SME development. To reserve a seat, visit https://www.ticketmelon.com/ctos/smebizdaykc.
For the latest updates on CTOS events and business solutions, visit http://www.ctoscredit.com.my/.
