The Youth Entrepreneurs Bureau of the SME Association of Malaysia successfully hosted the SME Youth Networking Day in Kuala Lumpur on 12 September, bringing together more than 100 entrepreneurs, business owners, and professionals from a wide range of industries. The lively event provided a dedicated platform for participants to network, exchange ideas, and explore collaboration opportunities.
Unlike previous editions, this year’s gathering was also open to non-member companies, widening the scope of engagement and allowing new businesses to connect with the Association’s ecosystem. The initiative reinforced the Bureau’s commitment to fostering inclusive collaboration and building a stronger SME community.
Insights from Industry Leaders
The highlight of the evening was a series of corporate sharing sessions featuring:
- Tony Tong Yen Ek, Head of SME & Strategic Partnership at AmBank (M) Berhad.
- Jessie Yu, Head of Commercial Sales at Alibaba Cloud International.
Both speakers presented their organisations’ business directions and growth strategies while emphasising how digital tools, cloud technologies, and financial support can empower Malaysian SMEs to become more competitive and expand into international markets.
Commitment to SME Growth
The event also spotlighted the Association’s upcoming initiatives, including cross-border exchanges and policy engagement programmes designed to help SMEs seize global opportunities.
Organising Chairman Derek Soh Chin Ke underscored the Bureau’s mission to position SMEs as a vital pillar of Malaysia’s economic growth:
“This networking event has provided participants with valuable connections and practical insights. Our goal is to inspire innovation and encourage collaboration among Malaysia’s youth entrepreneurs.”
Distinguished Guests
The dinner was attended by notable leaders, including:
- Dr Chin Chee Seong, National President of the SME Association of Malaysia.
- Datuk Ada Poon Yin Hoong, National Vice President of the SME Association of Malaysia.
- Datuk Siow Lee Ching, National Vice President of the SME Association of Malaysia.
- Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong, National Secretary General.
- Desmond Anil A/L Raymond, National Council Member.
- Teh Gaik Cheong, Chairman of the SME Youth Entrepreneurs Bureau.
The SME Youth Networking Day reaffirmed the Youth Entrepreneurs Bureau’s role as a catalyst for collaboration, innovation, and business growth, ensuring that Malaysia’s young entrepreneurs are well-positioned to shape the nation’s economic future.
