Dear reader,

The planned job cuts at ByteDance in Indonesia highlight the turbulent landscape of the tech industry, driven by the recent US$1.5 billion merger between TikTok Shop and Tokopedia. This strategic consolidation, aimed at eliminating redundant roles, mirrors broader trends across the sector as companies grapple with economic challenges.

Approximately 450 jobs, or 9 per cent of the staff, predominantly in advertising and operations, are at risk, reflecting ByteDance’s focus on streamlining operations.

Indonesia has been a significant market for TikTok Shop, competing fiercely with Shopee and Lazada. The merger with Tokopedia was essential for ByteDance to navigate local regulatory landscapes. However, this consolidation brings about tough decisions, including workforce reductions, a move indicative of the pressures faced by large tech firms globally.

The GoTo Group’s response to the Indonesia Stock Exchange underscores its non-controlling minority shareholder status, emphasising that operational decisions rest with Tokopedia’s management. This statement follows the departure of Tokopedia’s founding CEO and longtime COO from GoTo’s board of commissioners, signalling potential strategic shifts.

Overall, the layoffs reflect the broader economic downturn affecting major Chinese tech companies, compelling them to restructure and optimise efficiencies amidst a challenging global market.

Sainul,
Editor.

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NEWS

ByteDance to lay off 450 employees in Indonesia
This decision will mainly affect the advertising and operations teams, with ByteDance aiming to eliminate duplicate roles following the TikTok Shop and Tokopedia merger. In total, ByteDance’s combined e-commerce team in Indonesia is around 5,000-strong.

GoTo stays mum on ByteDance’s layoff plans as former chiefs leave board
Bloomberg reported on Wednesday that ByteDance’s planned job cuts may affect about 450 of the firm’s 5,000-strong team in Indonesia – or about 9%; Local media reports, however, indicated that ByteDance might slash up to 70% of Tokopedia’s workforce.

Anchanto grows revenue by 39% in 2023, aims for full-year profits by 2026
The Singapore-based e-commerce-focused SaaS firm posted revenue of US$11.3M revenue for FY2023; The company managed to narrow its net loss by 12.7% to US$4.3M; Anchanto helps brands, retailers, and logistics providers manage end-to-end ecommerce operations.

BayaniPay boosts Series A round to US$9.6M with fresh US$3M capital
The investors are Wavemaker Partners, PTGB, and Talino Venture Studios; BayaniPay’s mobile-first service empowers global professionals working abroad to financially support their families and communities back home.

Singapore to trial battery swapping, mobile charging for electric heavy goods vehicles
Port operator PSA Corporation will operate one battery-charging and battery-swapping station at its Pasir Panjang port terminal, serving six terminal electric prime movers and two on-road electric inter-gateway hauliers.

VinFast’s India factory to open ahead of schedule: founder
In January this year, VinFast announced an agreement with the Indian state of Tamil Nadu for a US$2 billion investment into the country; The company will also start building a factory in Indonesia within the next two months.

OpenAI closes in on US$3.4B in annualised revenue
This is more than double the US$1.6B it reportedly hit in late 2023; The bulk of OpenAI’s annualized revenue – around US$3.2B – reportedly comes from its products and services; Another US$200M came from offering its AI models through Microsoft Azure.

Arches scores US$3M financing to democratise expert knowledge sharing
The investors include KUSABI, Visional, and SMBC Venture Capital; Arches is a one-stop platform offering expert interviews, research, consulting, and talent placement; It connects decision-makers with vetted experts across Asia and beyond.

HK property tycoon Adrian Cheng leads US$8M round in celeb fandom startup Stanly
Besides C Capital, AppWorks, Goodwater, and Palm Drive Capital also co-invested; US-based Stanly connects fans with artists through digital fan clubs and exclusive content.

Vertex Ventures invests in Japanese firm StayX
StayX converts single-use rooms into multiple-use rooms; It covers various business aspects, such as attracting customers via the Internet, real-time inventory management, price adjustments.

Wavemaker Impact backs farm waste-to-energy startup Octayne
By prioritising Net Zero, Octayne strives to eliminate coal dependency in Southeast Asia without affecting the region’s development ambitions and encouraging the adoption of alternative fuels into existing infrastructure.

AgriG8 gets Better Bite Ventures’s backing to decarbonise rice production in SEA
AgriG8’s digital platform allows access to finance and incentivises methane-reducing farming practices, while the gamified smartphone app CropPal helps them report emissions-reducing practices they have implemented.

Indian beauty unicorn Purplle raises US$100M from Abu Dhabi wealth fund
PE fund Creaegis is also expected to join this round; To date, 3-year-old Purplle has raised close to US$400M in disclosed funding from Peak XV Partners, Blume Ventures, and Goldman Sachs.

Meet the 16 startups that demonstrated in AppWorks’s 28th demo day
The batch featured companies connecting social commerce with offline channel logistics, innovative payment solutions, and new applications for blockchain and AI; As many as 20 per cent of participating startups were founded by female founders.

FEATURES & INTERVIEWS

Korean brothers’ startup Nibertex develops chemical-free fabric for sustainable textiles
Nibertex’s PFAS-free membranes help reduce environmental pollution and potential health hazards associated with traditional waterproof textiles.

See you in the Philippines: Why the local startup ecosystem is getting all the attention today
The Philippines has seen “a surge of activity from multiple local conglomerates … mirroring Indonesia’s trajectory in 2017-2019”.

FROM THE CONTRIBUTORS

Decoding the potential of India’s home loan market
Technology can unlock the full potential of India’s housing market by using property technology platforms to enhance processes for developers and builders.

Can co-working spaces change Malaysia’s work habits?
In recent years, the users of co-working spaces have been SMEs and startup businesses, proving to be a majority of the users in the co-working space.

Southeast Asia’s marketing renaissance: How up-and-coming marketers are leading the charge
A defining characteristic of the current marketing renaissance in Southeast Asia is the unwavering commitment to continuous learning.

How your business can benefit from the NFT phenomenon
It appears that NFTs will remain successful for the foreseeable future; do they, however, make sense for your company?

Did the JPEX case in 2023 irreversibly damage HK’s reputation as a crypto hub forever?
While Hong Kong’s status as a crypto hub took a hit, its overall international financial reputation remained largely intact.

Redefining SocialFi through privacy-enhanced social networking
SocialFi platforms revolutionise engagement by rewarding user participation, standing in stark contrast to traditional social media’s one-sided value extraction.

How startups can overcome the AI talent death
Cloud-based AI tools allow startups to scale operations, adapt to market changes, and stay agile without extensive in-house expertise.

How M&A can supercharge your startup’s success
M&A is a good exit strategy for deep-tech or tech-based ICT service companies and trend-sensitive B2C consumer goods companies.

Confessions of a founder: There’s no fun in fundraising in 2024
If you’re having a really tough time fundraising, there’s a fair chance that it’s not your fault. Part of it lies in the funding climate these days so don’t beat yourself too much over it.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Why these startups focus on informal plastic waste workers in the fight against climate crisis
In many parts of Asia, plastic waste is commonly processed by informal workers who are part of the marginalised society.

Navigating global expansion: Essential tips for entrepreneurial success
For successful global expansion, entrepreneurs must consider these factors to navigate challenges and maximise benefits effectively.

Hacking your way into angel impact investing with just US$10K
As the Head of Special Projects at Top Tier Impact, I will give you these much-needed tips on how to start angel impact investing.

Embracing global entrepreneurship: Redefining startup success beyond Silicon Valley
Throughout our quest to support founders, we have found that a collaborative and strategic approach is always required when building startup communities.

Gen AI in banking: How to ensure a successful transformation for an age-old industry
The integration of Gen AI introduces a complexity that disrupts the established balance between business and technology within financial institutions.

Navigating the AI landscape in 2024: Why there is an urgency for enhanced governance
There are two points that stand out in 2024, starting with how AI will experience a shift from a “nice-to-have” to a “must-have”.

Fintech Nation integrates thought leadership and community into its startup support initiatives
This year, Fintech Nation wants to invest in more companies, doubling last year’s number of five companies.

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This week has been a remarkable one for Southeast Asian startups, showcasing the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and innovative potential. Companies across various sectors have successfully secured significant funding to fuel their growth and expand their services.

Highlights include Indonesia’s Paper.id, Thailand’s Seaplane Asia, Singapore’s Octayne Green Fuels, Hong Kong’s Stanly, and Indonesia’s McEasy.

These startups, alongside others like Deemples, AgriG8, BayaniPay, Arches, and masturi, are driving forward with innovative solutions in fintech, logistics, green technology, and digital interactions.

The diverse array of industries represented and the substantial investments received underscore Southeast Asia’s dynamic startup ecosystem and its growing appeal to global investors.

Below are the details of the companies and the investments they raised:

Paper.id

Paper.id is an invoicing platform to help Indonesian businesses with receivables and payables. The company has been using AI and machine learning to improve B2B payments.

Currently, Paper.id caters to over 600,000 SMEs from various industries in Indonesia. The clients include logistics firm J&T Cargo, which uses Paper.id’s services to handle over 5,000 invoices a month.

Amount raised: Undisclosed
Round: Series B
Investors: Square Peg, SMBC Asia Rising Fund, Argor Capital.

Stanly

Stanly connects fans with artists through digital fan clubs and exclusive content. Founded in 2023 by Rebecca Leung, Popular Culture, and Liberty City Ventures, Stanly aims to encourage direct interactions between fans and artists. Since its launch, Stanly has attracted over 200,000 members. The number of fans on the platform has grown by 30x since February 2024. The platform hosts 50 fandoms, including those of Taylor Swift and BTS, with 300 more coming soon.

Amount raised: US$8 million
Round: Pre-Series A
Investors: C Capital, AppWorks, Goodwater, Palm Drive Capital.

Seaplane Asia

Seaplane Asia is a seaplane and lifestyle company in Thailand. Established in 2019, Seaplane Asia provides air charter and amphibious seaplane services to connect remote islands and coastal areas. Its services aim to enhance accessibility, reduce travel times, and minimise environmental impact.

Besides travel and tourism, Seaplane Asia’s seaplanes are equipped for medical evacuations, search and rescue operations, cargo and logistics, monitoring missions, and corporate charters. Its portfolio includes brands like Siam Seaplane and Siam Scenic in Thailand, Samra Seaplane in Cambodia, and the lifestyle brand Jetboard Asia, which exclusively distributes high-end electric-powered water sports and boats.

Amount raised: Undisclosed
Round: Unspecified
Investors: TK & Partners, A2D Ventures.

McEasy

McEasy is an Internet-of-Things (IoT) and SaaS startup focused on transportation and supply chain solutions in Indonesia. Founded in 2017 in Surabaya (East Java) by Hendrik Ekowaluyo and Raymond Sutjiono, McEasy aims to transform Indonesia’s transportation and supply chain ecosystem. The mission is to create an end-to-end digital ecosystem that integrates and streamlines logistics operations.

Its McEasy Platform (MEP) offers a suite of solutions to address challenges in the nation’s logistics ecosystem, including IoT mobility for fleet management, end-to-end logistics delivery solutions, and vehicle spare parts and maintenance solutions.

The startup claims it has partnered with 1,500 companies over the past 18 months.

Amount raised: US$11 million
Round: Series A
Investors: Granite Asia (formerly GGV Capital Asia), East Ventures

Deemples

Deemples is an online golf booking platform in Malaysia. Its core mission is to create the premier golfing experience empowered by tech to allow its community to play anytime, anywhere, with anyone. It claims to have logged over 50,000 games on the platform to date.

At present, the app is available for golf courses in Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. Deemples is available on iOS, Android, and Huawei App Gallery.

Amount raised: US$2 million
Round: Unspecified
Investor: V Ventures

Octayne

Octayne Green Fuels is a farm waste-to-energy startup in Singapore. It converts underutilised waste biomass into a low-cost and scalable drop-in replacement for coal. By prioritising Net Zero, it strives to eliminate coal dependency in Southeast Asia without affecting the region’s development ambitions and encouraging the adoption of alternative fuels into existing infrastructure.

To achieve this goal, the company will tap into the exceptionally large agricultural sector in the region, which currently generates over 400 million tons of post-harvest crop residue–to convert largely unutilised biowaste into a renewable and sustainable fuel source.

Amount raised: US$525,000
Round: Pre-seed
Investors: Wavemaker Impact.

AgriG8

AgriG8 is a Singapore-based startup that aims to decarbonise rice production. Co-founded by Chen and Joshua Tan, AgriG8 supports smallholder farmers in rice-growing Asian countries and helps them adopt practices that can reduce methane emissions.

Its digital platform allows access to finance and incentivises methane-reducing farming practices, while the gamified smartphone app CropPal helps them report emissions-reducing practices they have implemented.

Additionally, AgriG8 uses satellite images combined with machine learning to validate water management practices associated with methane reduction. Its water management system, called alternate wetting and drying (AWD), combined with other solutions can lead to a 55 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Amount raised: Undisclosed
Round:
Investors: Better Bite Ventures, The Trendlines Group of Israel.

BayaniPay

BayaniPay is a payments process automation company based in the US and the Philippines. It is a collaboration between Talino Venture Studios, The Asian Journal, East West Bank, and Wavemaker Partners. Its mobile-first service empowers global professionals working abroad to financially support their families and communities back home.

This month, BayaniPay will launch Bayani GlobalPay, an embedded banking service designed to enable businesses and major billing entities to reach their customers efficiently worldwide.

Bayani GlobalPay features two embedded banking solutions: GlobalPay, a white-label service that provides non-financial institutions with a custom payment platform, and GlobalPay Express, an all-in-one payment portal for payment management.

Amount raised: US$3 million 
Round: Unspecified
Investors: Wavemaker Partners, PTGB, Talino Venture Studios

Arches

Arches is an expert knowledge-sharing platform based in Japan and Southeast Asia. A one-stop platform offering expert interviews, research, consulting, and talent placement, the platform connects decision-makers with vetted experts across Asia and beyond.

Clients gain discounted access to experts in exchange for contributing to the knowledge repository, democratising access to specialised information that was once the exclusive domain of a select few.

According to Arches, its ‘Expert Matching’ service has connected over 300 clients in over 20 countries with a network of over 100,000 vetted experts.

Amount raised: US$3 million 
Round: Unspecified
Investors: KUSABI, Visional Inc., SMBC Venture Capital

masturi

masturi is the Japanese company behind StayX, a software solution that converts single-use rooms into multiple-use rooms.

It was established in August 2016 in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, by CEO Keita Yoshida.

StayX maximises the value of unused space. A single space can be flexibly transformed to accommodate a variety of uses.

For example, a rental property that could only be rented out for two years can be transformed into a facility that can be operated on a one-night or one-month short-term rental basis.

Its software covers various business aspects, such as attracting customers via the Internet, real-time inventory management, price adjustments, and AI-based janitorial management, enabling unmanned facility operations.

Amount raised: US$8.65
Round: Series D
Investor: Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India.

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AgriG8, a Singapore-based startup that aims to decarbonise rice production, has secured an undisclosed investment from Better Bite Ventures, a local early-stage VC firm, and The Trendlines Group of Israel.

“This investment will fuel our regional pilots of an inclusive financing solution that encourages sustainable practices among rice farmers and improves their livelihoods,” said David Chen, co-founder of AgriG8.

Co-founded by Chen and Joshua Tan, AgriG8 supports smallholder farmers in rice-growing Asian countries and helps them adopt practices that can reduce methane emissions.

Also Read: Rize seeks to decarbonise rice cultivation in Asia with US$14M Series A raise

Its digital platform allows access to finance and incentivises methane-reducing farming practices, while the gamified smartphone app CropPal helps them report emissions-reducing practices they have implemented.

Additionally, AgriG8 uses satellite images combined with machine learning to validate water management practices associated with methane reduction. Its water management system, called alternate wetting and drying (AWD), combined with other solutions can lead to a 55 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

AgriG8 has completed the pilot in central Thailand and will start the next pilot in Tra Vinh, Vietnam, and Battambang, Cambodia, during the next planting season.

Rice production has the highest carbon footprint among crops globally. It is responsible for up to ~2 per cent of all greenhouse gas emissions, on par with the global aviation sector.

According to PwC and Temasek (source), rice is one of the five major sources of greenhouse gas emissions in Asia’s food and agri sector – together with meat and dairy, deforestation related to palm oil production, fertiliser use and food waste.

Also Read: Better Bite Ventures launches US$15M fund for early-stage alt-protein startups in Asia

In Vietnam, rice contributes more to emissions than the entire transport sector combined.

Reducing the carbon footprint of rice production is necessary for governments across Asia and many food companies globally to reach their net-zero targets.

Last month, Rize, another agritech platform that aims to make sustainable rice cultivation viable through innovative and data-driven practices, closed its US$14 million Series A funding round, which was co-led by Breakthrough Energy Ventures, GenZero, Temasek, and Wavemaker Impact.

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Image Credit: AgriG8

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Taiwan’s AppWorks Accelerator has unveiled the 16 startups that participated in its 28th demo day in Taipei.

The batch featured companies connecting social commerce with offline channel logistics, innovative payment solutions, and new applications for blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI).

As a batch, AW#28 hosted 38 innovative startups, with founders hailing from 17 different countries and regions, including Greater Southeast Asia, the UAE, South Korea, the US, France, Finland, and beyond.

Also Read: Pavilion Capital, AppWorks invest in US$21.3M Fund II of Philippine VC Foxmont Capital

As many as 20 per cent of participating startups were founded by female founders.

AW#28’s demo day featured the following companies:

ADPList: A global mentorship platform to access knowledge from experts (Singapore)

XO: AI-powered and blockchain-verified conversational platform for Gen Z (Taiwan)

Borong: B2B bulk e-commerce platform (Malaysia)

EQUO: A one-stop-shop omnichannel platform of curated, high-performance, quality products for the conscientious consumer (Vietnam)

Orderfaz: Shopify for social commerce sellers (Indonesia)

Event Horizon: DAO meta-governance layer (the US)

Return Helper: End-to-end solution for cross-border e-commerce returns (Hong Kong)

ShipAny: Smart logistics gateway for e-commerce (Hong Kong)

ABConvert: Specialised A/B testing tool for e-commerce (Taiwan)

Ajourney: One-stop HR and payroll platform for businesses in Southeast Asia (Singapore)

Quantlytica: AI-powered crypto asset management infrastructure (Finland)

Olli: AI-powered operating system for toy manufacturers to turn toys into children’s personalised companions (the US)

Qiro Finance: On-chain private credit protocol (Singapore)

Exchequer Finance: Allows projects to self-insure token risk, incentivising users with time premiums instead of tokens (Singapore)

Also Read: Why Asia provides exciting opportunities for Artificial Superintelligence Alliance to scale

Jomud: Digitised career consultation using AI for university (Hong Kong)

Cheko: Bridging students with subject experts for homework assistance (Philippines)

“With the addition of AW#28, we have now nurtured 563 active startups in 14 years. Among them, 30 per cent have successfully raised Series A funding or beyond, and nearly 100 can be considered large enterprises with revenue exceeding US$6 million or have successfully completed IPOs/IEOs. Additionally, there are nearly 100 hidden champions that have achieved sustained profitability through bootstrapping,” said Jamie Lin, Chairman and Partner of AppWorks.

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Social media platforms like MySpace, Friendster, Facebook, and Twitter reshaped communication with the infinite connection of the internet. However, these platforms are centralised protocols. Because it all connects to one server, this often leads to privacy breaches, data misuse, and lack of user control. As social media platforms intensify their rules on users, people are actively seeking better and more secure alternatives.

Enter social finance — SocialFi for short. SocialFi runs on blockchain technology and functions in a decentralised network, giving more freedom to users and better security for both people and personnel. As a reward for using a SocialFi platform, users can earn money just by existing on it. As of April 2024, 5.07 billion people have social media accounts. This number makes SocialFi projects able to appeal to a wide audience, which could lead to mass adoption.

SocialFi is rapidly experimenting with diverse social media functionalities, potentially beginning a new era of digital interaction that gives more power and liberty to the people.

Leveraging zero-knowledge proofs for enhanced privacy in SocialFi

SocialFi relies on zero-knowledge (ZK) proofs. Providing anonymity in SocialFi, zero-knowledge proofs (ZKP) facilitate secure and private user identity verification. Their integration represents a major advancement in how user identity is safeguarded, managed and secured online.

According to research by Protocol Labs, the ZK proof generation market will reach a US$10 billion value by 2030, with an expected demand for nearly 90 billion ZK proofs to power Web3 services.

Also Read: Financial world is the first to be transformed by Web3: Saison Crypto’s Qin En Looi

“The ZK proof market is up-and-coming and already moving towards tangible use cases. Identities are at the heart of the rapidly expanding decentralized social layer, including decentralised social media, DAOs, reputation systems, and on-chain gaming,” Kitty Horlick, Director of Rarify Labs said, “Moreover, the use of ZK proofs is accelerating due to the urgency with which identity credentials are needed both within Web3 and Web2 as AI-generated bots and deep-fakes make it increasingly difficult to discern humans – and human-generated content – from machines and AI-generated content.”

For example, SocialFi platform AsMatch has a unique approach to social connectivity, emphasising matches based on shared interests. The platform uses ZK proofs for identity checks like zkKYC. It integrates Manta Network’s zkBAB and zkGalxe for decentralized and trustless KYC verification on-chain.

Additionally, the platform goes beyond the concept of typical social media by nurturing connections and enabling trade among users. The platform’s ZK badge system allows users to verify financial credibility, such as “whale” status, or individuals or entities with significant holdings of digital assets.

Rewarding community participation

SocialFi platforms revolutionise engagement by rewarding user participation, standing in stark contrast to traditional social media’s one-sided value extraction. These platforms, such as Friend.tech and AsMatch, leverage NFTs and digital assets to reward user contributions ranging from content creation to community involvement. This model not only motivates active participation but also fosters a sense of trackable ownership and social time investment among users.

Through such mechanisms, SocialFi introduces a sustainable ecosystem where contributions tangibly value and reward users, marking a significant shift from conventional models that monetise user input without providing direct benefits to the contributors themselves. Friend.tech, a decentralised social network, encourages user engagement through a system called “Keys”, enabling individuals to tokenise and monetise their social influence for access to private chat rooms and exclusive content.

Also Read: Why Asia is dominating the fight for Web3 gaming

Innovatively expanding on this concept, AsMatch, the first Social L3 on Manta Network powered by Polygon CDK and Celestia DA, democratises SocialFi with a community-first approach. AsMatch supports the everyday user by offering rewards for interactions within the platform. Users can elevate their engagement by minting and bonding the zkPortrait, a unique AIGC zkSBT that serves as a Decentralised Identity (DID).

AsMatch’s complete decentralisation and secure, private communication systems underscore a commitment to user empowerment and reward, ensuring that each interaction is valued and recognised in the Web3 space.

Critical role of innovations

The decentralised social media sector has matured, offering Web3 counterparts to traditional platforms. Mastodon serves as a decentralised version of X (formerly Twitter), operating through independent servers. Meanwhile, DTube‌ enables a community-driven video-sharing service that rewards content creators with cryptocurrency, ‌democratising the content creation and curation process.

However, the landscape still needs further development. The mainstream appeal of social media has led to 1.4 billion hacked users monthly. As malicious attackers change their methods, so does cybersecurity. Innovations like ZK proofs are going to be crucial for enhancing SocialFi platforms’ overall security and data integrity, improving user satisfaction with verified digital identities.

In the future, it is expected that the Web3 social sector will exceed US$101.2 billion by 2033. These innovations will shift toward enhancing user control, privacy, ownership, and monetisation.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

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In 2023, Hong Kong’s financial headlines centred around cryptocurrency, painting a predominantly negative picture. Seven per cent of coverage related to Hong Kong in global tier-1 media across 2023 was negative, according to a financial hub analysis by CARMA.

In comparison, two per cent of Singapore’s coverage was negative, while Dubai had a statistically negligible percentage of negative coverage. We question if this reinforced Hong Kong’s image as an unfavourable destination for talent and global crypto firms.

Crypto news dominated Hong Kong’s media coverage in 2023. In the first half of the year, there was a surge in positive coverage regarding Hong Kong’s efforts to boost crypto trading.

This included significant events such as the licensing of crypto exchanges like Huobi and OKX, the green light for the first retail cryptocurrency exchange, and the legal recognition of cryptocurrency as property.

However, attention shifted dramatically in the latter half of the year as the media extensively covered the JPEX scandal.

Amidst a year marked by turbulence in Hong Kong, we explore the significance of a financial hub maintaining a robust reputation as portrayed by the media.

What was the crypto media landscape like for Hong Kong in 2023?

Domestically, the Hong Kong media extensively covered the scandal, considering it the largest cryptocurrency fraud case in the region, involving HK$1.5 billion (US$191 million).

Local media outlets attributed responsibility to celebrities, key opinion leaders, and brands for failing to conduct proper due diligence before associating with JPEX.

Apart from the JPEX scandal, other crypto news included the Hong Kong BC Technology Group exploring the sale of its crypto platform, OSL. Today, we know that, ultimately, it did not take place. However, those rumours alone captured a large volume of attention and media mentions.

Also Read: How this 12-day programme by SMUA equips you to detect potential FTX-like scams in future

Financial coverage related to Hong Kong thus portrayed a grim outlook for the region.

Reputation plays a significant role in attracting top talent and skilled professionals who prioritise security and stability.

Throughout 2023, Hong Kong experienced a brain drain as skilled workers migrated to Singapore or other hubs, highlighting the impact of reputation on talent retention.

What were the spillover effects of the JPEX crisis?

Despite these challenges within the cryptocurrency realm, the industry still thrives.

Globally, the media’s response to the crypto scandal in Hong Kong was not one of shock, given the prevalence of similar scams in the crypto and fintech sectors worldwide.

Consequently, while Hong Kong’s status as a cryptocurrency hub took a hit, its international reputation remained largely intact. It is unsurprising that Hong Kong, being a global financial hub, became a target for such scams.

Notably, Consensus, the premier cryptocurrency event, announced that its 2025 edition would be hosted in Hong Kong, underscoring the city’s enduring prominence in the crypto sphere and suggesting that its reputation as a crypto hub has not suffered irreparable harm.

In neighbouring hubs like Singapore, firms like Coinbase and Ripple secured licenses in the same quarter.

Similarly, over in Dubai, the media reported on crypto.com receiving a licence to operate in the country.

Strengthening reputation through media intelligence

The reputation of a city (or an organisation) is at stake when confronted with a public-facing or high-visibility crisis. While the causes of such crises may vary, what truly matters is how we choose to react and respond.

In today’s corporate landscape, reputation management has gained significant importance, prompting CEOs to prioritise it alongside other critical business units.

Also Read: Temasek says FTX could have duped it

The ability to reclaim your narrative is key when a crisis happens. Every statement issued or message released is a step towards taking back control. With news breaking at the speed of light, it’s crucial to rely on intelligence and analysis to effectively address and manage the incident.

Media intelligence, which examines and evaluates media coverage, offers a roadmap of reputation pillars and areas of visible recognition and helps assess the extent to which a crisis might tarnish reputation. In-depth analysis of the collected data then guides the development of strategic recovery approaches.

In-depth analysis of the collected data then guides the development of strategic recovery approaches.

The Hong Kong government, for instance, made concerted efforts to mend its public image by implementing initiatives to boost the public’s understanding of crypto.

Cultivating trust and a positive reputation fosters consumer loyalty. Trust encourages consumers to exhibit greater levels of forgiveness, particularly during challenging times.

The findings were based on CARMA’s report.

The content of the report was collected using a selected set of keywords and search queries, focusing on global tier-1 online media. CARMA analysed 41,000 articles in total from 1 January to 31 December 2023, that featured major mentions of each city: Singapore, Hong Kong and Dubai.

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Editor’s note: e27 aims to foster thought leadership by publishing views from the community. Share your opinion by submitting an article, video, podcast, or infographic.

Join our e27 Telegram group, FB community, or like the e27 Facebook page.

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Hello founder,

Are you having a tough time with fundraising this year so far?

I totally get it.

Oh yeah, before I forget, let me introduce myself. I’m Jackie, co-founder of BorderDollar — we’re a non-LLM startup in the B2B embedded financing space. I know, right — fintech is so 2018, and LLMs are still the rage these days. But hey, my co-founder and I are retro like that.

That said, while I’d like to say that “startup founder” is my main job, these days I just drive a bus. Speaking of which, here’s my bus.

Come onboard, the Struggle Bus is a bit crowded but there’s still space for you. Just make some space for AI founders that missed the 2023 bandwagon — we’ll pick them up in a bit.

Where are we going? We’re gonna go on a journey and discover why it’s been so hard to fundraise this year.

The destination? An abyss of despair and darkness (probably). And maybe just a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel.

Also Read: Understanding fundraising and VCs: Essential reads about cap tables, exit strategies, and job titles at a VC firm

Regardless, it’s useful information for existing founders and those who are about to embark on their fundraising (don’t do it, fellas).

2024 is a terrible year, and I miss 2021

To understand what’s going on, here is a very handy image from KPMG (thanks nerds) on the state of funding in Asia between 2018 to Q1 2024. If you’ve noticed, life was increasingly good between 2018 to 2021 when both the number of deals and total funding amount were high.

Without going too deeply into details, this happened because the interest rates were low during 2021, which meant LPs had to allocate money to things that had higher returns, i.e. startup investments, to hedge against inflation. A greater appetite for risky bets meant that anyone with an idea scribbled on a napkin could have received pre-seed or seed funding in those days.

Post-2021, you can see that the trend is reversing, i.e. the graph went down for both deal numbers and volume across all stages. This is because interest rates increased again after 2021, and we didn’t see any high numbers of M&As and IPOs after that. Without M&As and IPOs, LPs don’t get their money, and if LPs don’t get their money…no money goes back to VCs, and subsequently, that means no money for startups (you).

Gone are the days when T*g*r Gl*b*l literally chased founders with term sheets — these days, it’s courting a VC for six months only to get a “no, you’re a bit too early for us” even though you’re post-revenue and have somewhat of a product market fit.

What’s that? Haven’t you got the memo? Pre-Series A metrics are the new seed metrics now. Your peers, whom you thought were amazing, are also going through this pain. Expectations have gone up sky-high, and that means you have to have tons of traction, signals, or tailwinds to help them build conviction in you.

How to survive 2024

My point is that if you’re having a really tough time fundraising, there’s a fair chance that it’s not your fault. Part of it lies in the funding climate these days so don’t beat yourself too much over it.

Also Read: If there is one thing investors are afraid of, it is lack of commitment from founders

To founders out there onboard the Struggle Bus, here are things you can consider to survive the following months until things get better:

• Get more revenue (crazy idea, I know)
• Charm angel investors (hit up your rich, bored, and supportive friends for checks of $5-50k)
• Find a side hustle (no problem for those who already have day jobs)
• Increase your luck surface area by telling the world that you exist (like writing an e27 article 🙂 or posting on LinkedIn)
• Become an indie hacker (let’s get SaaS-y)
• Reach out to your fellow founders and have a pity party (make sure they’re not alone in this)

Hey now, are those tears I see? Wipe your tears, and don’t despair too much, founder. Here are some comforting words from your bus driver.

Firstly, if you look back at the graph above, you will notice that VC investments do pick up in Q3 and Q4. There are many reasons for this, but if it’s of any comfort, we’re (at the time of writing this) a month away from Q3. Hang in there, bro/sis.

Secondly, if you can survive this, you can survive anything. No, seriously — those who find a way to survive under such unfavourable circumstances will be unstoppable. The implication is that you’d be forced to figure something out to survive.

You’ll be better for it, I promise you. Now go, stop reading this article and get back to work.

Don’t forget to update your progress with your potential investors as well.

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In today’s dynamic business landscape, adaptability and innovation are paramount for success and growth. Employment Hero is at the forefront of this evolution, providing comprehensive HR and payroll solutions tailored to the unique needs of Southeast Asian businesses. As the Head of Sales & Partnerships for Southeast Asia at Employment Hero, I am thrilled to share our initiatives that are set to revolutionise the HR and payroll landscape in the region.

Empowering SMEs with the PSG Grant

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of our economy. Their success is critical to the overall economic health and growth of Southeast Asia. Recognising this, various governments across the region have introduced initiatives to support SMEs. One such initiative is the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) in Singapore, designed to help businesses enhance their productivity through technology adoption.

The PSG grant not only provides financial support but also encourages SMEs to embrace digital transformation. This transformation is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment, where staying competitive requires leveraging technology to its fullest potential.

Employment Hero is proud to be a PSG-approved vendor. This endorsement signifies our commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that streamline HR processes, enhance efficiency, and drive productivity. With our platform, SMEs can manage their HR tasks more efficiently, from recruitment and onboarding to payroll and compliance. By automating routine tasks, we enable business owners and HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives that drive growth.

Also read: 7 Thai startups wow at Echelon X through NIA

As a PSG-approved vendor, companies are eligible for up to 50% through the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG) that supports the digital adoption of Employment Hero’s platform which has been demonstrated to be the all-in-one employment solution for businesses with big ambitions.

By leveraging the PSG grant, SMEs can save up to 50% on their HR and payroll solutions today. This substantial cost saving translates to more value for everyday operations, allowing business owners to reinvest in their growth without worrying about budget constraints. 

Moreover, our customers have consistently demonstrated at least a 15% increase in productivity in the last 6 months after adopting Employment Hero’s solutions. This boost translates to 1.2 hours saved each day and significant cost savings. These efficiencies mean more resources can be allocated to other critical areas of the business.

The future of work

The future of work is flexible. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards Flexible Work Arrangements (FWA), highlighting the importance of adaptability in the workplace. At Employment Hero, we believe that flexibility is not just a benefit but a necessity for attracting and retaining top talent in today’s competitive market.

Singapore’s recent initiative to implement new FWA guidelines, which includes options such as flexi-time and flexi-place, aligns perfectly with our vision. These guidelines, effective from December 1, 2024 onward, require employers to fairly process formal FWA requests from employees, promoting a more flexible and supportive work environment.

Employment Hero’s approach to flexible work is built on three key pillars: Location Flexibility, Time Flexibility, and Role Flexibility.

1. Flexi Place: Empowering employees to work from wherever they are most productive. This could be from home, a co-working space, or even a different city. By offering location flexibility, businesses can access a broader talent pool and improve employee satisfaction. In fact, 82% of our Singapore Heroes have reported that reduced commuting time and the associated stress significantly impact their personal lives and well-being.
2. Flexi Time: Allowing employees to choose their working hours to better align with their personal lives and peak productivity times. Flexible hours can reduce stress and burnout, leading to higher overall productivity and job satisfaction. With flexible and remote working arrangements, 68% of our Singapore team has experienced enhanced mental well-being, and improved productivity and focus.
3. Flexi Load: Encouraging a fluid approach to job roles and responsibilities. This can include job sharing, part-time roles, or the ability to switch between different projects and tasks based on skills and interests. Role flexibility can enhance employee engagement and career development.

Also read: Revolutionising the optical solutions space with Cloud Light, a Lumentum Company

Flexible Work Arrangements offer numerous benefits for both employers and employees. For employees, FWAs provide a better work-life balance, reduce commute times, and increase job satisfaction. For employers, FWAs can lead to higher productivity, lower absenteeism, and greater employee retention resulting in the incubation of local Singaporean talent.

Employment Hero strongly advocates for FWA and provides the tools and support needed to implement them effectively. Our platform enables businesses to manage remote work, flexible hours, and other FWA options seamlessly. By promoting a flexible work culture, we help businesses create a more adaptable and resilient workforce fit for the future of work.

A comprehensive suite of HR and payroll solutions

Managing HR and payroll can be complex, especially for businesses operating in multiple countries with diverse regulations. Employment Hero’s all-in-one HR and payroll platform is designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses in Southeast Asia. Our solutions cover every aspect of HR management, from recruitment and onboarding to payroll and compliance.

One of the key benefits of our platform is its ability to automate routine HR tasks. Automation not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors, ensuring that HR processes run smoothly and efficiently. This allows HR teams to focus on more strategic activities, such as employee engagement, talent development, and organisational planning.

Compliance is another critical area where Employment Hero excels. Our platform is designed to ensure compliance with local labour laws and regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues and fines. We stay up-to-date with the latest regulatory changes, so our clients don’t have to. This peace of mind allows businesses to focus on growth and innovation without worrying about compliance issues.

SmartMatch: The future of recruitment

We are excited to share a sneak preview of Employment Hero’s SmartMatch, our innovative recruitment solution designed to tackle the challenges of today’s competitive job market. SmartMatch leverages advanced algorithms and AI to match the right candidates with the right roles, eliminating traditional recruitment stages and ending the ‘Pay and Pray’ model.

Built into Employment Hero’s HRIS platform and powered by Swag, SmartMatch facilitates proactive and predictive hiring, providing a seamless experience for both employers and job seekers.

The beta release is set for the end of June, with continuous optimisation and testing leading to a full launch in the second half of the year. The more you use it and the more feedback you provide, the better we can make it for you.

Supporting the future of work in Southeast Asia

At Employment Hero, we are committed to driving innovation and supporting businesses in Southeast Asia. Our comprehensive HR and payroll solutions are designed to meet the unique needs of businesses in the region, helping them navigate the complexities of HR management and stay ahead of the competition.

We believe that the key to success lies in embracing change and leveraging technology to drive growth. Through initiatives like the PSG grant, we are helping SMEs embark on their digital transformation journeys. By advocating for Flexible Work Arrangements, we are promoting a more adaptable and resilient workforce. And with the launch of SmartMatch, we are revolutionising the recruitment process, making it easier for businesses to find and hire the right talent.

Also read: XTransfer’s AI-driven Anti-Money Laundering technology empowers B2B international trade

This is the ethos that ultimately drives Employment Hero, coupled with our dedication to empowering businesses in Southeast Asia with the tools and support they need to succeed. Whether through our PSG-approved HR and payroll solutions, our advocacy for Flexible Work Arrangements, or our innovative SmartMatch recruitment solution, we are committed to driving growth and innovation in the region.

As the Head of Sales & Partnerships for Southeast Asia, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. We look forward to continuing our journey with our clients, partners, and the wider business community, working together to shape the future of work in Southeast Asia.

Join us on this exciting journey as we continue to innovate, support, and empower businesses across the region. Together, we can achieve great things and create a brighter future for all.

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This article is produced by Employment Hero, published by e27

We can share your story at e27, too. Engage the Southeast Asian tech ecosystem by bringing your story to the world. Visit us at e27.co/advertise to get started.

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BayaniPay, a payments process automation company based in the US and the Philippines, has secured US$3 million in fresh capital led by Wavemaker Partners, PTGB, and Talino Venture Studios.

This brings the fintech firm’s total Series A funding to US$9.6 million, which includes a US$6.6 million previously secured from Talino Venture Studios.

With the fresh investments, BayaniPay will start expanding its services worldwide, with the goal of capping 2024 with US$200 million in payments processed.

Also Read: BayaniPay nets US$4.5M to provide cross-border financial services to Filipinos in US

BayaniPay is a collaboration between Talino Venture Studios, The Asian Journal, East West Bank, and Wavemaker Partners. Its mobile-first service empowers global professionals working abroad to financially support their families and communities back home.

This month, BayaniPay will launch Bayani GlobalPay, an embedded banking service designed to enable businesses and major billing entities to reach their customers efficiently worldwide.

Bayani GlobalPay features two embedded banking solutions: GlobalPay, a white-label service that provides non-financial institutions with a custom payment platform, and GlobalPay Express, an all-in-one payment portal for payment management.

Bayani GlobalPay utilises payment gateways and payment automation technologies to reduce manual processes and provide “seamless” management and tracking of domestic and international payments. The payment methods include debit and credit cards, e-wallet, direct debit, and QRPH, which eliminates the need for a bank account to be able to pay or send money.

According to the Philippine Institute for Development Studies, personal remittances totalling US$37.2 billion accounted for 8.5 per cent of the Philippine GDP in 2023. BayaniPay aims to augment the economic impact of cross-border direct payments by making them frictionless and cost-effective. This helps Filipinos overseas save on fees and add more pesos to every dollar they send.

Also Read: Talino Venture Studios lands US$5M to bridge financial inclusion in emerging markets

“For years, we have been providing cross-border financial services to Filipino American communities in the US. Now is the perfect time for BayaniPay to unlock the infinite potential of international payments and provide accessible and affordable global financial services to Filipinos in every continent,” said BayaniPay CEO Winston Damarillo.

“Any local enterprise that provides products or services to Filipinos, such as property builders, insurance companies, hospitals, retailers, and schools can do business globally because they have a platform to get paid at the lowest possible cost. But more importantly, their customers enjoy the benefits of choosing the most cost-effective and convenient way to pay for such products or services,” said BayaniPay Chief Commercial Officer Dindo Marzan.

In 2022, bagged US$4.5 million in seed funding from East West Bank, Wavemaker Partners, and Talino Venture Labs.

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Image Credit: BayaniPay.

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The digital economy, characterised by the integration of digital technologies into all facets of economic life, faces several significant challenges. One of the primary obstacles is the digital divide, which manifests as unequal access to technology and internet connectivity among different regions and demographics. This divide hinders the participation of marginalised communities in the digital economy, limiting their access to economic growth and exacerbating existing inequalities.

Moreover, digital skills gaps among the workforce can impede the effective utilisation of digital tools and platforms, necessitating significant investment in several key areas including education and training. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts from governments, businesses, and civil society to create an inclusive and secure digital ecosystem.

In Indonesia, pioneering and bolstering the digital economy is crucial to harnessing the potential of its burgeoning market. With a large and youthful population, high mobile penetration, and growing internet usage, Indonesia is well-positioned to become a significant player in the global digital economy. Investing in digital infrastructure, fostering innovation through supportive policies, and enhancing digital literacy are essential steps to leverage this potential. By addressing the challenges and embracing the opportunities of the digital economy, Indonesia can drive economic growth, create new job opportunities, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.

How knowledge sharing empowers the digital economy

To bridge gaps in the digital economy, robust knowledge sharing among key stakeholders—governments, corporates, startups, and industry leaders—is essential. Collaboration drives effective policies, innovative solutions, and best practices, addressing issues like the digital divide, cybersecurity threats, and regulatory challenges.

Governments can create supportive regulations, corporates can invest in infrastructure and security, startups can drive innovation, and industry leaders can provide expertise. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures diverse perspectives, efficient resource use, and collective action, fostering an inclusive, secure, and dynamic digital economy. Together, these efforts build a resilient ecosystem that supports sustainable growth and expands digital access.

Also read: 7 Thai startups wow at Echelon X through NIA

Seeking to fulfil this need and address gaps in the digital economy space is the OceanBase INFINITY 2024: “Pioneering Indonesia’s Digital Economy.” Happening on 26 June at the St. Regis Ballroom in Jakarta, this project serves as a platform to foster essential knowledge sharing among ecosystem stakeholders. This event offers an unparalleled opportunity for tech & fintech enthusiasts, CIO / CTO, Heads and Experts of Database Management, Engineering, Applications, Solution Architecture, and Infrastructure to gain insights and foster collaboration to drive technological advancement in Indonesia.

Moreover, the event is designed to explore the infinite possibilities of database modernisation, cloud migration strategies, and AI integration, which are critical components for advancing Indonesia’s digital infrastructure and capabilities. By bringing together top tech leaders, the event will provide invaluable insights through fireside chats and panel discussions, highlighting real-world use cases and innovative solutions that can be replicated and scaled across different sectors.

The interactive technical showcases will also allow participants to engage directly with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies, facilitating a deeper understanding of how to implement these solutions effectively. Networking opportunities over dinner will further encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences among diverse attendees, fostering collaborations that can drive collective growth.

Explore opportunities for learning

OceanBase INFINITY promises an immersive experience into the most pressing and innovative topics shaping the digital economy. At the event, attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of insightful discussions and technical showcases designed to explore the frontiers of Indonesia’s digital economy.

Event highlights

Technology Showcase – OceanBase Pioneering Next-Gen Database Technologies: Featuring OceanBase’s product roadmap, with CTO Charlie Yang unveiling upcoming releases and updates. This session will focus on innovations in database management, optimisation, and analytics, offering technical insights into the scalability, performance, efficiency, and security enhancements of modern database technology. The showcase will set new standards for efficiency, reliability, and innovation in the digital age.

“Our commitment to innovation is reflected in OceanBase’s cutting-edge database management optimization techniques. By leveraging AI-driven analytics and other advanced database technologies, we provide enterprises with scalable and reliable solutions that meet the rigorous demands of the digital economy,” shared Charlie Yang, CTO of OceanBase.

Also read: Revolutionising the optical solutions space with Cloud Light, a Lumentum Company

Interactive Demo: A first-hand look at how OceanBase enables organisations to handle volatile workloads with ease. By demonstrating advanced database partitioning, dynamic load balancing, fault-tolerant design principles, and automatic failover mechanisms, this session will highlight OceanBase’s ability to maintain continuous operations and set new benchmarks for reliability and performance in database management. Participants will witness how these technologies ensure mission-critical applications remain uninterrupted, even during workload spikes.

Sessions of interest

Fireside Chat – Charting a Path for Innovation & Impact: This session will spotlight DANA’s impressive journey in transforming Indonesia’s digital payments landscape. With over 170 million users and the digitalisation of 550,000 MSMEs, DANA has become a benchmark for security and convenience in financial services. This session will delve into their innovative customer acquisition and retention strategies, plans for scaling partnerships, and their vision for financial inclusion. By examining the role of database management and cloud deployment in their success, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how DANA is driving interconnectivity within the ASEAN digital payments ecosystem.

Industry Panel – Indonesia’s Digital Landscape – Navigating Trends & Trade-offs in 2024: This session will provide a critical look at the tech investment climate and key trends shaping the upcoming year. The discussion will focus on the implications of generative AI and the necessity for AI oversight and strategic database management. Panelists will share their perspectives on the evolving tech ecosystem, reflecting on significant shifts observed over the past year. This session aims to debunk prevalent myths and offer actionable insights into the future of technology in Indonesia.

Big Data & Cloud Panel – Navigating Indonesia’s Cloud Journey – Building a Resilient Digital Infrastructure: Participants will explore the transformative potential of AI-driven insights and advanced Big Data analytics within a cloud infrastructure. This session will highlight how organisations can leverage this integrated ecosystem to enhance digital resilience, drive operational efficiency, and unlock new growth opportunities. By understanding the seamless migration to cloud infrastructure, attendees will gain valuable knowledge on building a robust and adaptable digital framework in Indonesia’s dynamic market.

Get to know top industry leaders at OceanBase INFINITY

Joining the event’s esteemed roster of industry leaders is Evan Yang, CEO of OceanBase. Evan Yang joined Alipay in 2009. He has been leading the middleware team of Ant Group. He has led the R&D and evolution of financial-grade distributed middleware platforms such as microservices, messaging, application containers, and development frameworks. Evan is now leading the OceanBase team in technology-driven innovation, to provide global enterprise customers with enterprise-level database services that feature high availability, high performance, high scalability, and low costs.

“Our mission at OceanBase is to drive innovation through our world-class database engineered for mission-critical workloads at scale. As we engage with Indonesia’s vibrant digital ecosystem, we are excited to showcase how our technologies can contribute to developing a resilient and inclusive digital economy,” explained Evan Yang, CEO of OceanBase.

Also read: XTransfer’s AI-driven Anti-Money Laundering technology empowers B2B international trade

Other notable names include Lillian So, ASEAN Fintech & Unicorn Leader representing AWS. Lillian So has been at Amazon Web Services (AWS) for 9 years, building out the Fintech ecosystem in Singapore for 6 years and working with key startups like Stashaway, Singlife, and Endowus. She expanded her coverage to Defi, Web3, and Crypto in 2021. Her work in 2024 now focuses on value creation for the region’s fastest-growing and top-funded startups across Southeast Asia, helping startups to accelerate expansion into new markets, and innovate with emerging technology.

They will also be joined by Eggy Tanuwijaya, Head of Solution Architect at Alibaba Cloud Indonesia. Eggy is an IT expert with over 20 years of experience as a tech expert in various industries. Eggy has a diverse skill set ranging from Software Development, Data Warehouse, Business Productivity, and IT infrastructure with cloud-based solutions. Eggy is not only adaptable but also eager to embrace new technologies and solutions. As one of the most senior local experts in Alibaba Cloud Indonesia, Eggy is well-equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities presented by the ever-evolving landscape of information technology.

Other top leaders from across the digital ecosystem who will be at OceanBase INFINITY are Norman Sasono, CTO of DANA Indonesia, Aditya Chintawar, Chief Product & Technology Officer of Koinworks, Martijn Wieriks, Chief Data Officer of JULO, and Mohamad Triana Walujadjati, Chief of Enterprise for Infrastructure & Security at DOKU, among many others.

Learn the ropes around boosting Indonesia’s digital economy at OceanBase INFINITY happening on June 26 at the St. Regis Ballroom in Jakarta by signing up today.

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This article is produced by the e27 team, sponsored by OceanBase

We can share your story at e27, too. Engage the Southeast Asian tech ecosystem by bringing your story to the world. Visit us at e27.co/advertise to get started.

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