By Danial Dzulkifly
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 – Local technology enterprises are celebrating the recently concluded Selangor International Business Summit (SIBS) 2023 for its pivotal role in showcasing their innovations and capabilities.
The summit served as a crucial platform that allowed these firms to present their solutions to a broad and diverse spectrum of attendees, spanning both local and international business landscapes, they said.
Speaking to Selangor Journal, representatives from several tech entities shared their enthusiasm, noting that such heightened visibility through their participation in SIBS 2023 can catalyse strategic partnerships and spur sales.
This momentum, they believe, will not only amplify their market presence but also significantly advance their social endeavours.
Highlighting the importance of the summit, Entomal Biotech chief commercial officer Yanni Xinyan Ching said it serves as a platform to introduce her company’s sustainable waste management technique using black soldier fly larvae to local authorities.
Given SIBS’s role as a hub that gathers state local councils, Yanni believes it offers her firm significant opportunities to engage in potential collaborations.
“Every day, Selangor generates 2,000 tonnes of food wastes, while Malaysia produces 17,000 tonnes. If we can convert these wastes into something beneficial for society, then it’s an opportunity we shouldn’t miss.”
She further elaborated on the advantages of a cohesive approach in addressing the waste issue, saying partnerships with city councils, shopping malls and hotel chains can bring about transformative changes.
“Being present here allows us to display our collaborations, such as the one with the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA), and our impending partnership with the Kuala Lumpur City Hall. Our proposition to other city councils is straightforward: why can’t we work together?
“This is especially true if you have net zero carbon goals. Our solution is scalable, provides jobs for the B40 community, and offers an economical alternative for animal feed,” she said when met at Entomal’s trade booth at SIBS 2023.
Entomal’s approach to food waste can be categorised into two distinct solutions, the first being a centralised model where large-scale food waste sources are transported to a main processing facility.
The second solution, which focuses on smaller communities, practises a decentralised method through the introduction of the Entomal Mobile Bio Conversion (EMBC) system.
Recently, the firm has deployed its EMBC system in Shah Alam, in collaboration with MBSA.
Recognising innovative solutions
Another tech firm, Badanbas Coach Sdn Bhd, also praised SIBS 2023 for spotlighting its community mobility service.
Via its “Mobi” app, which was launched in March this year, Badanbas offers a unique ride-sharing experience in Subang, utilising vans as their mode of transport.
The service, which currently consists of two vans catering to the Subang Jaya district, is expected to be expanded to a fleet of eight vans to serve people in Sungai Buloh, Bandar Utama and Ara Damansara by January of next year.
Badanbas manager Mohd Amir Mohd Amran expressed his delight over the recognition his company has received during SIBS 2023.
This is after the Selangor government announced plans to incorporate Mobi’s community mobility service into the state’s upcoming Demand-Responsive Transit (DRT) service, set to be operational by November this year.
“Being a part of the SIBS 2023 has significantly raised our profile. We’ve seen a considerable increase in awareness about our service and its benefits,” he told Selangor Journal.
Amir said Mobi’s inclusion in the state’s DRT initiative underscores its value in enhancing community mobility.
Currently, Mobi’s vans are busiest during peak hours, accommodating commuters heading to work in the morning and returning home in the evening.
Additionally, the service has gained traction among college students residing in the Subang area. Its popularity is further evidenced by its expansive network of over 500 stop stations in Subang, all accessible via its app.
Technology enterprise Smart Rental similarly lauded SIBS 2023 for highlighting its innovative laptop and personal computer subscription service.
Participating in SIBS for the second time, Smart Rental business development manager Koi Hann You noted a significant rise in foot traffic at its booth this year, which he believes could be attributed to its enhanced visibility at the summit.
“This increased awareness is crucial as it directly supports our company’s overarching mission. With every new subscription, Smart Rental is in a better position to assist the community,” Koi said.
Apart from its money-making business, Smart Rental also supplies free refurbished laptops to underserved families and students, bridging the digital divide.
“Our service is designed to provide individuals access to functional laptops or PCs through affordable monthly instalments at a fixed rate. However, there’s a broader vision.
“Every subscription indirectly sponsors B40 families and students with laptops, laying the groundwork for a better future,” he said when met at Smart Rental’s exhibition booth.
This year’s SIBS is the biggest on record, with over 1,000 trade booths set up and drawing an impressive 50,000 trade visitors during its four-day event from October 19 to 22.
Remarkably, the potential transaction value hit RM4 billion, far surpassing the initial target of RM1.5 billion.
