Dear reader,
The ongoing investigation into allegations of sexual harassment at Malaysian tech agency Cradle underscores the importance of addressing workplace misconduct seriously. It is encouraging that the agency has taken swift action by suspending the official in question to facilitate a thorough probe. The use of evidence, such as a timeline and WhatsApp conversations, provides a strong basis for the investigation and may help ensure a fair and objective assessment of the situation.
In light of the broader concerns raised, including manipulation and abuse of power, the investigation must be comprehensive and impartial. The commitment to ensuring a safe and respectful work environment by both Cradle and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation is commendable, as this case highlights the necessity for organisations to prioritise the well-being of their employees. This incident should serve as a reminder that fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and zero tolerance for harassment is paramount in every workplace.
Sainul,
Editor.
====
Malaysia’s Cradle investigates official over alleged sexual harassment
Based on excerpts seen by TiA, the complainant’s report detailed not just sexual harassment but also other claims, including manipulation and abuse of power; The complainant alleged that these actions began as early as her “first month on the job” and continued for months.
In Mamaearth, Peak XV finds its fourth 10x return since Sequoia separation
Mamaearth is Peak XV’s 20th IPO in India and Southeast Asia, a figure that notably surpasses the IPO count of other venture firms in the regions by a substantial margin; Peak XV has offloaded its remaining shares in Zomato.
GIC, ADB Ventures join Indian EV firm Euler Motors’s US$14.4M
The startup plans to use the funds to expand into 40 cities and expand its service and charging network nationwide; Euler makes commercial EVs; Its flagship product, the new HiLoad EV, has a 12.96 kWH battery pack and a real range of 100-120km.
Earth VC invests in Finnish earth observation startup Kuva Space
Kuva Space’s commercial microsatellite, equipped with a patented hyperspectral camera, can distinguish nearly any material on the earth and its condition through its distinct spectral signature.
Indonesian EV maker Volta raises fresh funding
Twin Towers Ventures and Rigel Star Fund are the lead investors; Volta has developed a battery replacement system (SGB) to reduce fossil fuel use; The potential for electric vehicle users in Indonesia is expected to continue to increase until 2025.
Singapore’s AnyMind enters 14th market with South Korea launch
The Tokyo-listed e-commerce enabler, now operating in 14 markets around the world, will set up a team in Korea to speed up the development of its local network, which includes publishers, creators, e-commerce platforms, and logistics services.
Korea’s Shinhan taps PasarPolis to enter Indonesian market
Shinhan anticipates significant growth in Indonesia’s insurance industry given the currently low market penetration; Along with Thailand and Malaysia, Indonesia is expected to play a crucial role in the overall premiums underwritten in SEA.
A quick look at the six Singtel Group Future Makers 2023
Virtual Psychologist and GEPP won Platinum and Gold awards; Future Makers is part of the group’s larger sustainability strategy to empower communities through digital enablement by driving innovation to create positive social impact.
Thermalytica winner of SLINGSHOT 2023, bags US$150K+ in grant prize
Bering Lab, which provides domain-specific translation engines and tools powered by AI for the legal and patent industries, is the first runner-up; Kinexcs, an AI-based digital health and wearables company, is the second runner-up.
Tesla to build 25,000-euro car in Germany: source
The steep price tag of e-cars is one of several factors holding back uptake of the technology in Europe and the US, consumer surveys show; The average retail price of an EV in Europe in H1 2023 was over 65K euros, compared to just over 31K euros in China.
Elon Musk to integrate xAI with social media platform X
The billionaire also said xAI released its first AI model, a bot named Grok, after making it available to all X Premium+ subscribers on Friday; The startup aims to create AI tools that ‘assist humanity in its quest for understanding and knowledge’.
Human-centricity of ESG investing will be more apparent: Quest Ventures
Michelle Ng, Head of ESG for Quest Ventures, explains how the firm aims to double down its efforts in this matter.
How Kopi Kenangan achieves its goal of opening one new store per day
A typical coffee chain in Indonesia would open 40-50 new stores in a year. Kopi Kenangan wants to do things differently.
Before you found a startup, think about your personal goals
In the end, your startup is not just a company; it’s a reflection of your personal aspirations. The clearer your goals, the better your chances of navigating the tumultuous seas of entrepreneurship.
How Full Circle-HydroNeo partnership empowers small-scale shrimp farmers
Norwegian nutrient recapture company Full Circle and Thai aqua-tech startup HydroNeo. collaborate to transform aquaculture, boost sustainability, and empower small-scale farmers in shrimp farming innovation.
PropertyGuru plans to help real-estate space become more environmentally sustainable
PropertyGuru sees that the industry’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions means developers and homeowners have to look for sustainable ways to do things.
SEA companies making waves with funding, innovation, expansion
SEA highlights: Modalku’s finance boost, Engine Biosciences’s precision medicines, VE Technology’s multimillion-dollar funding, GoTo’s profitability journey, and more.
User-generated content: Why this social strategy is one you should invest in
User-generated content offers a real-world perspective, aiding customers in making informed purchasing decisions.
Save and invest as you shop: The triple ‘A’ of financial accessibility
The post-pandemic financial challenges Malaysians face are undoubtedly formidable, yet we now have potent tools to shape our financial futures.
Navigating the fog: How clarity unlocks your startup’s full potential
Achieve startup clarity with a three-step strategy: Find your North Star, set milestones, and define daily tasks for progress.
Why leaders matter for a strong organisational culture
If done well, a positive organisational culture can lead a business towards enduring success in good and challenging times.
The multifaceted nature of business valuation: Implications for your startup
This article explores business valuation intricacies, highlighting how your startup’s worth varies based on the inquirer’s perspective.
Fintech growth in Asia: Why businesses should prioritise expansion in the region
By driving innovation in payment systems, fintech firms can contribute to economic growth and financial inclusion within the region.
==
The post Ecosystem Roundup: Cradle official suspended over alleged sexual harassment; EV maker Volta raises investment appeared first on e27.