Open For Business

From trading rubber gloves to manufacturing eco-friendly cleaning products, Yeo Eng Foo, Founder of ReadyCare Signature, shares how his Malaysian brand has grown to offer USDA-certified, halal, and vegan bio-based cleaning solutions across multiple ASEAN markets. In this episode of Open for Business, we explore ReadyCare’s origins, its innovative R&D process, and plans for expansion—all while staying committed to sustainability.

Here are some key highlights from the conversation:

- Yeo Eng Foo started his career trading rubber gloves and personal care products, supplying to major clients like Walmart. This experience highlighted global demand for sustainable products and inspired him to transition into bio-based cleaning solutions.

- The idea for ReadyCare emerged in 2016 when Walmart requested recyclable packaging for gloves. Unable to find local suppliers, Yeo identified a gap in the market for eco-friendly products and started researching bio-based cleaning solutions.

- With no chemistry or manufacturing background, Yeo took a leap of faith, investing over RM1 million in machinery before even finalising product formulas. He built an in-house R&D team to develop stable, plant-based cleaning solutions tailored to market needs.

- ReadyCare offers USDA bio-based, halal-certified, vegan-friendly, and MyHijau-certified products. Its lineup includes star items like bio-based dishwashing liquid, laundry detergent, and the region’s first USDA-certified toilet bowl cleaner.

- ReadyCare designs products specifically for regional needs, such as dishwashing liquids effective against greasy Asian cuisine. Their R&D ensures products are eco-friendly without compromising cleaning performance or safety.

- Initially faced with scepticism about product effectiveness, ReadyCare built trust by offering free samples and demonstrating tangible benefits like gentler effects on skin and effective grease removal.

- In just three years, ReadyCare Signature achieved seven-figure annual revenues. The brand also exports to Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines, with Singapore and Indonesia launches in progress.

- Yeo’s plans include scaling up through refillable vending machines to reduce plastic waste and expanding into untapped markets. He envisions ReadyCare becoming a global leader in bio-based cleaning solutions with eventual plans for an IPO to fuel growth.

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From a one-off project supplying workstations to a RM75 million acquisition, Wilstech’s journey is one of growth, adaptation, and strategic decisions. In this episode of Open For Business, Wilson Low, Founder and CEO of Wilstech, shares how the Malaysian B2B IT solutions provider scaled from a RM100,000 family loan to achieving RM23 million in revenue in 2023. We dive into its acquisition by Systech Bhd, lessons from the journey, and the road ahead.

Here are some key highlights from the conversation:

- Wilstech’s Origins: Wilson Low launched Wilstech in 2018 with a RM100,000 family loan, starting with a single project supplying workstations to the government.

- A Shift to Digital Solutions: Initially focused on hardware, the company pivoted to digital solutions like mobile apps, software development, and business automation systems to address the digitalization needs of Malaysian SMEs.

- Star Products Driving Growth: Wilstech’s offerings include the WilsONE Business Automation System and eMOBIQ, a no-code app platform that empowers SMEs to streamline operations efficiently and affordably.

- Revenue Milestones: Wilstech achieved RM23 million in revenue in 2023 and RM14 million in just the first six months of 2024, driven by both SME solutions and government tenders.

- Strategic Acquisition:Earlier this year, Systech Bhd acquired Wilstech for RM75 million in a cash-and-stock deal, marking a major milestone and offering synergies like enhanced resources, funding, and government connections.

- Meeting Growth Challenges: Wilson highlighted the challenges of early sales, scaling the business, and navigating M&A decisions, including choosing an acquisition over pursuing an IPO.

- Future Ambitions: With an obligation to meet a RM5 million profit guarantee for FY2024, Wilstech is eyeing expansion into AI, big data, and smart city solutions, all while staying focused on its SME customer base.

- Long-Term Vision: Wilson envisions Wilstech potentially spinning off as an independent entity within the Systech group, with ambitions to establish itself as a leader in SME-focused innovations.

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Today, we feature Ascendance, a Malaysian youth-driven organisation that’s reshaping the way young people approach education and entrepreneurship. Founded by students for students, Ascendance empowers individuals to discover their passions, develop real-world skills, and achieve personal and professional growth through innovative programmes, mentorship, and hands-on experiences. In this conversation with Harsha Ravindran, CEO, and Sanadtkumar Ganesan, COO, and Co-Founders of Ascendance, we look into their journey, the challenges they’ve overcome, and how they continue to inspire and transform the lives of youth across the nation and beyond.

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From Malaysia to world - how Amplio Ingredients wants to leverage local herbs and bring them into the global supplement supply chain. In this episode of Open For Business, we dive into the origins and ambitions of this Malaysian health supplement ingredient supplier with Executive Director and COO Cheong Wai Loon.

Amplio Ingredients specialises in sourcing health supplement ingredients from global manufacturers while providing formulation support for clients, as well as regulatory advice for end products. They cater to industries ranging from functional foods and nutraceuticals to personal care.

In this episode, we explore Amplio’s journey—from its origins and evolution to its growth strategies. Cheong Wai Loon shares insights into the company’s future, including whether an IPO or M&A could be on the cards, as well as key lessons learned from Sunzen Biotech’s acquisition and subsequent divestment of a 70% stake in Amplio. We also discuss how Amplio collaborates with local universities and research centres to advance its products and ingredient offerings, leveraging local herbs.

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In this episode, we're joined by Ben Jihad, founder of Jeet Academy, a local martial arts training centre that offers techniques from Krav Maga and Jeet Kune Do to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Western boxing. Jeet Academy prepares individuals of all backgrounds with the skills and confidence to tackle life’s challenges—both figuratively and, as we’ll explore, quite literally.

Ben’s journey from a lawyer in Brussels to a self-defence expert in Malaysia was sparked by a life-changing experience in 2007 and now as an entrepreneur, Ben not only leads Jeet Academy but also consults for industries like filming and has expertise in fight choreography as well as stunt planning.

In our conversation, we dive into Ben’s personal journey, the founding philosophy of Jeet Academy, and what’s next for the academy going forward.

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“I wanted to create something out of nothing”. Starting with a relatively small RM50,000 investment, Leon Goh transformed a small soft-serve mix operation into Gourmet Ingredients, a multi-category manufacturer producing premix powders for beverages, soups, sauces, and more, that’s targeting RM100 million in annual revenue by 2029.

In this episode of Open For Business, we explore how Leon, founder and CEO of Gourmet Ingredients, built this premix powder powerhouse, now supplying F&B outlets nationwide and exporting to five ASEAN countries, as well as his ambitious plans to localise supply chains across ASEAN.

Key insights from the conversation include:

- Leon’s Entrepreneurial Path: From investment analyst to food manufacturing innovator, Leon shares the inspirations and challenges behind his transition to food manufacturing.

- Building from Scratch: Started with RM50,000, a single blender, and small batches for ice cream shops. Overcame early scepticism and barriers by focusing on product quality and consistency.

- Expanding Product Lines: How Gourmet Ingredients pivoted during the pandemic to add new product lines, making beverages a major part of their business.

- Menu Solutions Concept: Leon’s strategic shift toward becoming a “food menu solutions” provider, helping F&B clients with ready-to-use products across appetisers, main courses, beverages, and desserts.

- ASEAN Expansion Strategy: Plans to expand into new ASEAN markets, establish local factories in Vietnam and Indonesia, and increase exports from 30% to 70% of revenue.

- Innovation and Consistency: Ensuring quality and food safety with international certifications (ISO, HALAL, HACCP) and ongoing R&D for constant product improvement.

- Future FMCG Ambitions: Leon’s vision to launch a consumer-facing line, leveraging experience from developing private-label products for established brands.

- Funding and Growth Outlook: Why Gourmet Ingredients remains self-funded through bank financing and potential considerations for M&A or an IPO as the business scales.

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How did Innov8tif transform from a bootstrapped startup to serving 70% of Malaysia’s telecommunications and banking sectors? In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with George Lee, Founder and CEO of Innov8tif Solutions, about the company’s journey, their groundbreaking innovations like IC microprint verification, and the announced RM40 million strategic partnership with Datasonic Group.

George has been nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Malaysia awards in the Technology Entrepreneur Category.

George shares insights into the challenges of scaling a tech business, the evolving eKYC landscape, and Innov8tif’s plans to expand regionally while maintaining its leadership in secure digital onboarding.

Among other things, we get into:

- Entrepreneurial Journey: How George Lee and his co-founder started Innov8tif with RM60K, and how they moved from software development and consultancy and into the eKYC business.

- Innovation in eKYC: Innov8tif’s patented solutions, such as IC microprint verification, and their impact on secure digital onboarding.

- Market Leadership: Serving 70% of Malaysia’s telco and banking sectors and the strategies behind maintaining this dominant position.

- Strategic Acquisition:Insights into Datasonic Group’s RM40 million acquisition and how it will drive Innov8tif’s growth and innovation, as well as advice on strategic partnerships.

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Childcare is one of the most pressing challenges facing Malaysian families today. With concerns over learning environments for children, safety and the delicate balance between work and family life, parents are struggling to find reliable, childcare options that ensure their children’s well-being.

In today’s episode, we are joined by Daisy Ng, the Founder and Chief Education Officer of Trinity Kids, a playschool dedicated to reshaping the childcare landscape in Malaysia. Daisy shares with their mission to create a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive, while also supporting modern working families. We will also dive into Daisy’s journey to founding Trinity Kids, the challenges and opportunities within the local childcare industry, and her aspirations for accessible, affordable childcare for Malaysian families.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Imran Abdullah, Co-Founder and Group CEO of Positano Risto, a muslim-friendly Italian dining experience inspired by the Amalfi Coast.

Launched in Singapore in 2017, Positano Risto has since expanded to Kuala Lumpur, bringing authentic Italian flavours to the region while priding itself on being muslim friendly. Imran shares the journey behind the brand’s creation, the challenge of balancing authentic Italian tastes with muslim-friendly requirements, and Positano Risto’s expansion plans.

Tune in to learn about Imran’s vision, his unique approach to the F&B industry, and the strategies guiding Positano Risto’s future growth.

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On this episode of Open For Business, we explore how Visual Retale is using technology to transform the out-of-home (OOH) advertising landscape in Malaysia. Established a decade ago, Visual Retale has evolved from an OOH media owner to a comprehensive OOH media practice, boasting a network of over 32,000 outdoor and indoor screens across Malaysia.

Sai, the founder, joins us to discuss their latest tool, Playdooh, launched in September Playdooh provides dynamic solutions tailored for advertisers by integrating over 62 data points, including geographic, demographic, and psychographic information. By mapping screens based on location and audience attributes, Playdooh enables brands to strategically place ads that align with their target demographics and reach desired locations with precision.

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From cabin crew to automotive CEO. In this episode of Open For Business, we dive into the remarkable journey of Feytech Holdings, a Malaysian automotive accessories manufacturer that has grown from producing small-scale leather seat covers to supplying complete car seats for global OEMs.

CEO Connie Go, who took the company public earlier this year with a successful RM114 million IPO on Bursa Malaysia’s Main Market, joins us to share how this family business has transformed over the last 20 years into a vertically integrated, one-stop solution for automotive interiors.

Connie has been nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Malaysia Awards in the Woman Entrepreneur category.

Key insights include:

- Feytech’s Evolution: From a replacement equipment manufacturer to a Tier 1 OEM supplier with full car seat manufacturing capabilities.

- Vertical Integration: As the only Malaysian automotive supplier offering both seat covers and car seats, Feytech stands out in cost efficiency and convenience.

- Growth Strategy Post-IPO:How IPO proceeds will fund expansion, a new corporate office, potential M&A, and market entry into Malaysia’s central region.

- Competitive Advantage: The unique benefits of vertical integration, cost control, and quality standards that attract OEM partnerships, particularly for CKD projects.

- Connie’s Path to Leadership: From 15 years as a cabin crew member to CEO, using skills from aviation to drive Feytech’s business.

- Navigating Public Company Challenges: Adapting corporate governance and transparency for public markets, with advice for entrepreneurs considering IPOs.

- Future Expansion: Ambitions to diversify into additional automotive parts, secure new OEM projects, and maintain profitability in a competitive landscape.

- Women in Leadership: Connie’s perspective on breaking gender stereotypes in manufacturing and her hopes for a future with fewer industry barriers.

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Can a hot dog be more than simple franchised fast food here in Malaysia? In this episode of Open For Business, we explore the journey of Sausage Sizzle, a homegrown Malaysian brand on a mission to elevate the humble hot dog into a premium dining experience. Co-Founder Nazri Adam shares how Sausage Sizzle grew from a single stall into a recognized brand, with aspirations to expand through both food trucks and potentially fully-fledged outlets.

Nazri discusses the brand’s evolution from event-based sales to multiple licensed locations, followed by a strategic shift to a streamlined model focused on quality and customer experience. Key insights include:

Origins and Vision: How Sausage Sizzle was founded in 2019 to bring locally sourced, quality sausages to Malaysian street food culture, aiming to elevate the humble hot dog into a gourmet experience.

Growth and Challenges:The journey from a single outlet to multiple locations and events, and the pivotal challenges faced, including the impact of COVID-19 and adapting to customer preferences.

Shift in Strategy:Insights into Sausage Sizzle’s recent shift from licensing 18 outlets to a streamlined, owned-and-operated model, with a focus on quality control and customer experience.

Product Innovation and Simplified Menu: The transition from customizable hot dogs to a curated menu, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and providing a consistent customer experience.

Balancing Quality with Affordability: Challenges and strategies around offering premium ingredients in a cost-competitive market and ensuring profitability as they scale up.

The Role of a Food Truck as an R&D Hub: How their food truck acts as a testing ground for new products and marketing strategies, enabling agile adaptations to customer feedback and market demands.

Future Ambitions and Expansion Plans: Sausage Sizzle’s goal to expand with owned outlets and potentially a full sit-down restaurant, while building a stronger brand presence in Malaysia’s premium street food scene.

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From car mats to a regional brand on track to hit RM100 million in annual revenue, in this episode of Open For Business, we explore the journey of Malaysian brand Trapo with Co-Founders and Co-CEOs, Tzong Lee and Zare Lee, and how these self-identified ‘accidental entrepreneurs’ built this automotive accessories brand.

Founded in 2016 with a focus on eco-friendly car mats, Trapo has since expanded into a wide range of car accessories, now operating 25 outlets across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia. Tzong and Zare share insights into Trapo’s evolution, overcoming the challenges of scaling in a competitive market, and their vision for sustainable growth.

They reveal strategies for differentiating Trapo, their approach to product innovation, and how they’re navigating the demands of a crowded industry. We also discuss Trapo’s future, from potential IPO ambitions to further regional expansion.

Additionally, Tzong and Zare have been nominated for the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 Malaysia awards in the Emerging Entrepreneur category—a distinction previously awarded to brands like ZUS Coffee, Empire Sushi, and financing platform Capbay.

Tune in to discover how Trapo aims to make its mark as the “Apple of Car Accessories” across Southeast Asia.

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Is AI the answer to Malaysia’s math failure rate? How could AI transform math in schools? In this episode of Open For Business, we explore how Malaysia-based startup AI Teacher is aiming to revolutionise math education for secondary students with Tupai.ai.

Co-founded by Edmond Yap and Andre Sequerah, Tupai.ai uses AI to create a personalised and engaging math tutoring experience, with the ultimate goal of helping students improve their SPM grades. The platform, currently in beta, is attempting to address both practical and emotional barriers to math learning through adaptive and interactive features.

Edmond and Andre share insights into Tupai.ai’s journey, from the early motivations and challenges to the strategies they believe could make or break their success. We also dive into their funding approach, future expansion plans, and the role of AI in transforming education.

Tune in to discover how this innovative platform is set to change math education in Malaysia.

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Sigma School, founded in 2022, is more than just an online coding bootcamp — it is a bold initiative that aims to redefine tech education in Malaysia. With a focus on real-world skills and job readiness, Sigma School offers a 3-month intensive programme with a unique guarantee: either secure a tech job or get your money back. 

Today, we’re joined by Deric Yee, the founder of Sigma School, to dive into his journey, the challenges of building an impactful edtech platform, and his vision for the future of tech education.

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Can local sparkling drink brand Supergulp thrive in the crowded and competitive beverage market? In this episode of Open For Business, we dive into Julian Koh’s journey from e-commerce and food tech roles at companies like Honestbee and Foodpanda to founding Supergulp — a Malaysian sparkling prebiotic drink brand.

As Julian shared with Vulcan Post, the idea for Supergulp began with a simple supermarket visit, where he came across Western sparkling prebiotic drinks. Impressed by their taste and low sugar content, he wondered why there wasn’t a similar option tailored for local tastes. That moment planted the seed for what would become Supergulp.

With no prior F&B experience, Julian drew on his background in food tech and e-commerce to create a healthier alternative for Malaysia’s bustling beverage market, blending inspiration from Western brands with a focus on local preferences.

Julian shares the challenges of launching a consumer brand, strategies to stand out in the “better-for-you” drink market, and Supergulp’s ambitious growth plans. Join us as we explore the early hurdles, the unique product development journey, and the future Julian envisions for Supergulp in Malaysia and beyond.

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We speak with Sheyong Tan, Co-Founder of BiiB, a wellness tech startup that’s changing the game in Malaysia’s fitness landscape. From Malaysia’s largest running league, RUNLIGA, to scalable corporate wellness solutions, BiiB combines community and innovation to redefine employee engagement and health. Sheyong shares his journey from R&D engineer to entrepreneur, explaining how BiiB’s platform integrates fitness, community, and technology for a unique wellness experience.

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How does a material-science aerospace engineer end up building a 9-figure logistics platform?

In this episode of Open For Business, we’re joined by Clarence Leong, Founder and CEO of EasyParcel—a company that has transformed the shipping process for micro-SMEs and SMEs.

Since its launch in 2014, EasyParcel has facilitated over 86 million delivery quotes and served 2.5 million customers across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Clarence shares his remarkable journey from aerospace engineering to entrepreneurship, and how EasyParcel has evolved into a regional player, integrating with e-commerce platforms and offering advanced logistics solutions.

We also explore the company’s growth strategies, key partnerships, and its plans for future expansion—including the potential for an IPO.

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We speak with Joshua Lin, General Manager of PriceShop Malaysia, about how the platform empowers Malaysian consumers to make smarter buying decisions in the consumer electronics space. We explore PriceShop’s approach to price comparison, ensuring accuracy and reliability through its extensive network of SME retailers and advanced technology. Joshua also shares insights on upcoming innovations, such as AI-driven features, and discusses trends in Malaysia’s electronics market, including consumer behaviour and the rise of buying scams.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Cellou Diallo, CEO of RollingPay, a company offering flexible payroll financing solutions to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Founded in 2022, RollingPay wants to help small businesses meet payroll obligations with up to 90-day repayment terms, ensuring timely employee payments—even when cash flow is tight.

We explore Cellou’s journey from Global Head of Data and AI Delivery at SWIFT to building his own business, what sets RollingPay apart from other alternative financing players, and the platform’s future plans.

NOTE: RollingPay does not operate under any clear regulatory framework as we await the Consumer Credit Act to come into effect.

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What does it take to carry a family business’s legacy forward?

In this episode of Open For Business, we explore the evolution of Sun Bus Tech, a company specializing in bus and bus body manufacturing for energy-efficient vehicles.

While Sun Bus Tech was officially formed in 2022, its roots trace back to the 1970s. Joining us is Shyan Phang, CEO of Sun Bus Tech, who shares the story of how her father started a small coachwork fabrication business, why the family exited the bus industry in 2020 only to return two years later, and her own decision to join the family business. We also dive into the challenges of transitioning leadership from one generation to the next, and much more.

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We talk with Rachel Tan, Founder of The Nurts, a platform dedicated to creating and curating purposeful tools that promote personal growth and family connections. With offerings like interactive card games and educational kits, The Nurts focuses on learning through play, supporting families and young individuals in building essential skills. Rachel shares her journey of founding The Nurts, its mission to empower lives, and how the brand is expanding in Malaysia, Singapore, and Australia.

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Confide Platform, your company’s future compliance command centre? In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Pav Gill, Founder and CEO of Confide Platform—a platform designed to streamline compliance and risk management for organisations.

Pav shares his remarkable journey, from exposing the €24 billion Wirecard scandal to creating a tech solution that helps companies manage sensitive reports and protect whistleblowers.

We explore how his experience at Wirecard shaped Confide Platform, the challenges of building a compliance-focused tech startup, and how the platform could redefine the future of corporate risk management by automating and simplifying compliance, governance, and whistleblowing.

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In this episode, we sit down with Howard Obbard, Co-Founder and Director of Furniture and Choice Malaysia as we explore how this renowned UK-based brand is making its mark in the Malaysian market with its exceptional British craftsmanship and competitive prices. By blending its expertise in premium furniture with local artistry, Furniture and Choice Malaysia is not only transforming homes but also boosting the local economy by creating jobs and championing sustainability.

Tune in as we delve into the challenges and triumphs of re-establishing a global brand in Malaysia’s competitive market, and how the company is pushing the boundaries of innovation and design to offer Malaysians premium, locally-made products.

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Are businesses and brands overlooking a vibrant and growing market? In this episode of Open for Business, we speak with Preethi Sanjeevi and Ramakrishnan CN, Co-Founders of Greytt—a platform that aims to offer curated services tailored to people over 50, starting with fitness, but eventually travel and much more.

We explore the story behind Greytt’s creation, what it means to redefine ageing, why this demographic is often misunderstood, and the opportunities they see in this underserved market. Plus, we dive into how the founders' backgrounds in digital marketing and tech are shaping their vision of targeting and serving people between the ages of 50 and 70.

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How did a college dropout selling PCs and web hosting services build a 9-figure digital powerhouse? In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Chan Kee Siak, Founder and CEO of Exabytes Group, an all-in-one provider of business, cloud, digital, and eCommerce solutions.

Founded in 2001 as a small web hosting service in Penang, Exabytes now serves 160,000 businesses across 121 countries, with core markets in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Chan shares how he started at 19, pivoted to web hosting, and grew Exabytes through M&A strategies and securing a US$10.7 million investment from Ekuinas in 2019.

Now a nine-figure revenue company with 20% annual growth, Exabytes thrives on recurring revenue from SMEs and plans further expansion, M&A, and an IPO within three years. Chan outlines the company’s growth drivers, including cloud solutions and deeper penetration into Indonesia’s market.

Tune in for an inspiring look at Chan Kee Siak’s entrepreneurial journey and the future of Exabytes.

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On this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Andy Chaw, Founder of Trendz360. They’re a global lifestyle group with wholly owned subsidiaries in 8 markets, with Singapore being their central base of operations. Andy will be giving us a sense of the growth and evolution of Trendz360 from inception to the global brand distributor that the business is today, the challenges of managing a global company and how they have evolved over the years as well as his vision for the future of lifestyle retail and wholesale distribution with Trendz360.

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How did a Silicon Valley property play become a global corporate innovation driver and VC firm? In this episode of Open For Business, Jojo Flores, Co-Founder of Plug and Play, shares how a Silicon Valley real estate play in 2006/2007 has turned into a global innovation platform and early-stage startup investor. Plug and Play now operates across 50+ locations, running accelerator programs, corporate innovation services, and a venture capital firm.

We discuss their journey, expansion into APAC, and their perspective on the future of innovation in the region. Key points we dive into include:

- The story behind the founding of Plug and Play and its early beginnings in real estate.

- How Plug and Play became a hub for startups like Dropbox, Lending Club, and PayPal.

- The role of corporate partnerships in Plug and Play’s accelerator and innovation programs.

- Plug and Play’s investment strategy and how they choose the startups they invest in.

- The expansion into Southeast Asia and insights on Malaysia’s innovation potential.

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Today on Open For Business, Augustine Edwards talks about how he founded AES Academy. From a kid fascinated by loudspeakers his brother gave him, he turned his passion into a full-blown career, mastering the art of audio engineering. AES Academy is a launchpad for the next wave of audio wizards, blending technical expertise with creative innovation. He shares the ups and downs of starting an academy, the evolving audio scene in Malaysia and the future prospects of the audio engineering field.

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BookXcess began in 2007 with just 5,000 remaindered books. Today, it’s on track to hit RM100 million in sales, working directly with publishers to fulfil its mission of making books more affordable and accessible.

In 2009, Andrew Yap and Jacqueline Ng launched the Big Bad Wolf Book Sale, which has since become a global cultural phenomenon and has expanded to 37 cities in 14 countries, attracting 3 million visitors annually and selling over 15 million books.

From nearly going out of business during the pandemic, the company has rebounded, now operating over 22 outlets nationwide and 3 more in Singapore. In 2023, they achieved USD$4 million in profits and are set to surpass RM100 million in revenue this year, with plans to explore an IPO in 2026.

In this conversation, we explore:

- Andrew’s journey in building these two iconic brands.

the business model behind BookXcess and how they are working with publishers to play the high volume game

- Why BookXcess takes the risk of owning the books they sell instead of using consignment.

the challenges they’ve faced, including the logistical challenges of moving millions of books.

- How BookXcess is innovating with store designs and layouts, BookBots, “blind dates” with books, and more.

- Andrew’s vision for the future of BookXcess and Big Bad Wolf as they continue to grow in an evolving market.

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No entrepreneur left behind? That seems to be the driving force behind GUIDE, an early-stage venture studio and advisory firm founded by Neil Cheong and Alvin Chin.

In this episode of Open for Business, we explore how GUIDE aims to provide venture education, hands-on support, and mentorship to founders and entrepreneurs, all while building a scalable business for themselves.

We delve into their transition from Ignition Chamber to GUIDE, their unique approach to advisory services, and their ambition to grow a content-driven business that supports a thriving entrepreneurial community.

Key Areas of Conversation:

- Founder Support: GUIDE’s focus on early-stage businesses, offering education, mentorship, and ecosystem-building support.

- Evolution from Ignition Chamber: The formation of GUIDE and why they’re focusing on content to scale their business.

- Business Model & Scalability: How GUIDE balances advisory services with a scalable educational membership model.

- 1% Equity Model: GUIDE’s innovative equity-based fee structure to support founders.

- Future Vision: GUIDE’s plans to scale founder programs and foster a vibrant entrepreneurial community.

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We speak with Ting Mao, Founder at Sunnystep, a science-based footwear company for walking enthusiasts, active travellers and urban families. We’ll be discussing the story behind Sunnystep and how it all started after a horrible injury, the differences between their products with other more renowned footwear brands, the challenges faced and opportunities ahead for the business.

Image Credit: mysunnystep.com

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“A lot of studio owners are very distracted. So when it comes to looking at who are our worthy rival, I will look at the founders. Then I will kind of know whether or not they will still be our rival in a year’s time. ”

Curious how a small 1200 sq ft fitness studio in Melaka expanded into Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, and the larger ambition behind these moves? In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with CJ Lee, Co-Founder of MOVE Private Fitness, about their journey from launching a boutique studio in 2020 to scaling across six locations, including Bangkok. With a focus on delivering premium, personalised fitness services to the T20 demographic, MOVE is gearing up for its next phase of growth.

Key Areas of Conversation:

- What inspired MOVE and the challenges faced in the early days.

- How MOVE stands out in a crowded fitness market by specialising and not getting distracted by fitness trends

- The story behind expanding MOVE to KL and Bangkok and plans for further regional growth.

- Insights into MOVE’s upcoming fundraising round and how the capital will fuel further expansion.

- Tune in to discover how MOVE Private Fitness is trying to reshape the fitness industry and what lies ahead in its ambitious growth journey.

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This morning on the show, we speak with David Ng, Founder at Savor, a local F&B outlet aiming to encourage healthier lifestyles with their plant based meals.

David started the business with his wife, Beverly, and business partner, Peter back in 2019 after originally starting in the lifestyle coaching field. Their commitment to health and wellness goes beyond the plate as they have not only established a vibrant plant-based restaurant for consumers to enjoy vegan food but they also provide curated meal plans in their mission to enhance health and wellness for their consumers.

With that in mind, we’ll be talking about the inception story of Savor from how it started to where the business is at today, the challenges and hurdles they had to overcome in what’s becoming a very tough F&B industry and what’s in the works for Savor going forward.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we sit down with Casper Foo and Lye Yu Min, the co-founders of co-working space Sandbox. Launched in 2017 with an initial RM300,000 investment, Sandbox has grown into a community-driven space attracting freelancers, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs.

As they compete with larger players like WORQ and Common Ground, Casper and Yu Min share the challenges they’ve faced, their vision for the future, and how Sandbox is creating a unique niche in the co-working landscape.

Tune in to learn more about their growth journey and what it takes to succeed in the co-working industry.

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What does it take to build a localized large language model (LLM) in Malaysia?

In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Khalil Nooh, Co-Founder & CEO of Mesolitica, about how his startup is developing Malaysia’s own LLM, MaLLaM, and the challenges of AI sovereignty in the region. Khalil dives into his journey from early Natural Language Processing projects to creating an LLM tailored for the Malaysian context.

Key areas covered include:

- The evolution from chatbots and NLP to large language models (LLMs)

- The inspiration and technical challenges behind building MaLLaM

- How Mesolitica is leveraging AI for local businesses and government use

- The importance of AI sovereignty and local data governance

- Mesolitica’s approach to developing cost-efficient AI models

- How Mesolitica plans to scale its LLM across Southeast Asia

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Be it in the morning, evening, or throughout the day, tea has never been left out of the list of Malaysian staples, with a variety of flavours for everyone to enjoy.

In this episode, we bring you one of the flavours with Kavievanan Subramaniam, the Founder of Tea Thambi, a local name that has become renowned for its distinctive and pleasant masala chai in Kuala Lumpur.

Kavievanan started his journey in 2020, during the challenging days of the pandemic, by selling masala tea on a bicycle through the streets of Little India in Brickfields. What began as a humble venture has now grown into a chain of roadside stalls and a café, with another café already in the works.

We speak to him about the inspiration behind Tea Thambi, the challenges he faced in establishing the business, and the strategies he used to achieve such rapid growth. We also discuss future expansion and Kavievanan's vision for Tea Thambi and its impact on the local community.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we sit down with Inbaraj Suppiah, Founder of JomHack, to explore his journey from running a creative agency (Pixaworks Creative Sdn Bhd) to leading hackathons that help businesses foster innovation, acquire talent, and solve complex challenges. Tune in to learn how JomHack and Inbaraj have become a key players in corporate innovation and community building, and what the future holds for this exciting venture in the tech ecosystem.

Among other things, we dive into:

- The origins of JomHack and how Inbaraj transitioned from running a creative agency to designing and executing hackathons and innovation programs.

- How hackathons help businesses drive innovation, acquire talent, and test new ideas in a short time.

- The importance of community building and how it has played a central role in JomHack's success.

- Inbaraj’s insights on working with government agencies, corporates, and startups to create impactful innovation programs.

- The key steps involved in organizing a successful hackathon and the common misconceptions about what hackathons truly are.

- What’s next for JomHack and Inbaraj’s future ambitions.

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In this episode, we sit down with Peter Vesterbacka, the visionary entrepreneur best known for his role in turning Angry Birds into a global phenomenon during his time at Rovio Entertainment. Beyond gaming, Peter has been a key figure in the startup and education ecosystems, driving innovation and future-thinking in a variety of fields. We explore his journey from building one of the most recognisable mobile games to his current ventures, and gain insight into his thoughts on the future of technology, entrepreneurship, and education.

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From a pregnancy craving to a multi-million ringgit business, in this episode of Open For Business, we sit down with Rosli Manaf, Co-Founder of Homebaker@Clover, to explore the journey of building a successful bakery chain specialising in cinnamon rolls.

Rosli shares how this passion project grew into a thriving business with 11 outlets across the Klang Valley, the challenges of scaling in the ever competitive and complex F&B market, and his ambition to make Homebaker@Clover the Krispy Kreme of cinnamon rolls.

Tune in to learn:

- The transition from a corporate career in IT and telecommunications to starting an artisanal bakery.

- How focusing on cinnamon rolls helped Homebaker@Clover stand out.

- The challenges, mistakes and lessons learnt of scaling a food business while maintaining quality.

- Future growth plans, including franchising and potential international expansion.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we speak to Cindy Woon, Founder and Chief Happiness Officer of Belly Happy, a business offering a range of snacks, homemade drinks, and ready-to-eat meals.

Cindy shares how she left her corporate job to pursue her entrepreneurial journey, the early challenges of starting Belly Happy, and how the business has grown from bazaars to partnerships with hotels.

Tune in to learn:

- Why Cindy made the shift from a corporate career to starting her own business.

- How Belly Happy sources and develops its range of snacks.

- The strategies Cindy is using to expand into new markets and grow the business.

- Her plans for the future and what’s next for Belly Happy.

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Today on the show, we speak with Ilyas Alsagoff, Co-Founder and Director at Sugar and I, a local bakery outlet that sells homemade desserts and are famously known for their bomboloni.

Founded in 2013 by Ilyas and his sister, Sharifah Nur Ilisa, Sugar and I began when the siblings started baking brownies for their parents with a heartwarming mission: to bring joy through baking. 9 years later, their passion for baking has now become a growing business, with over 10 products on the menu, custom-made cake and cookie services and TTDI being their fifth store outlet as of today.

With that in mind, we speak with Ilyas on the journey the siblings took from baking brownies for their parents to selling bomboloni across multiple stores in KL, the challenges faced by the business in a very tough and competitive F&B industry as well as their foreseeable expansion plans moving forward.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we delve into the story of Katch, a platform aiming to simplify the health, fitness, and wellness industries by integrating booking management and other backend processes with platform services (think ClassPass), and marketing. We explore how Katch is trying to address the sector's challenges like improving visibility, reducing high commission fees, and unifying fragmented management systems, aiming to carve a niche in a market dominated by giants like ClassPass.

Joining us are co-founders Lee Cheng Yun and Brendan Siew, who will share insights on Katch's inception, its growth, and the strategies they believe will allow them to compete with established industry players.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

- Why Lee Cheng Yun and Brendan Siew ventured into the health and fitness sector and the gaps they aim to fill with Katch's innovative solutions.

- The evolution of Katch from its early days to its current operations, including how they have tackled initial challenges and plans to sustain growth.

- How Katch differentiates itself from competitors like ClassPass through its integration of other technologies such as POS systems, booking management, and more

- Katch's business model and how it plans to achieve ambitious targets, including acquiring 400,000 users and hitting RM21 million in revenue by 2025.

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The pet tech market, according to reports by Research Nester and Global Market Insights, is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. The market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 16% from 2023. This growth is driven by increasing pet ownership, technological advancements, and a rising focus on pet health and wellness.

Today, we speak with Richard Nilsson, Founder and CEO of MyPetGo. This pet tech platform leverages technology to provide personalised, convenient, and community-driven solutions for pet owners as we find out more about the inception of MyPetGo and the future of pet tech.

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Today on the show, we speak with Seth Casden, CEO & Co-Founder at Hologenix. They’re a material science company that develops products that amplify human potential, including their flagship product CELLIANT.

It’s a bio-responsive infrared textile that transforms body heat into full-spectrum infrared energy. Seth founded the company back in 2002 after previously working as a financial analyst and stints in private equity.

After raising over $10 million and establishing partnerships with global brands like AEON, Decathlon, Under Armour and Duluth Trading Company, Hologenix was named to the Inc. 5000 of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S. for the third year in a row back in 2021.

With that, Seth will be helping us unpack the origin story of Hologenix, the challenges and hurdles faced by the business and how they have evolved since 2002 as well as the ambitions and opportunities ahead for the business going forward.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we sit down with Ian Wong and Kimberly Law, co-founders of Uno Advisers, a financial planning firm with a mission to empower women through personalised financial planning. Founded in 2021 and officially launching in 2023, Uno Advisers says it is taking a fresh, client-focused approach to the traditionally product-pushing financial services industry.

Ian and Kimberly share how their backgrounds led them to start Uno Advisers, the challenges they’ve faced in building the business, and why their focus is on supporting women in their financial journeys. They also discuss how they differentiate themselves in a competitive market and their view on the future of financial planning in Malaysia.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- How Uno Advisers is trying to fill a gap in Malaysia’s financial planning industry by focusing on holistic, client-first strategies.

- The importance of tailoring financial services to women and why they are their target demographic

- The challenges of launching a new financial planning firm in a market dominated by larger, more established players.

- Insights into Uno’s business model, growth strategy, and the potential future of financial planning in Malaysia.

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Co-founded by the twin brothers, Andy Gan and Chris Gan, back in 2014, TWINS Education has earned a reputation for excellence over the years, offering personalised learning experiences for student’s needs. With a focus on International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and A-level tuition. Additionally, TWINS Education also offers IELTS preparation courses, and enrichment programmes such as English primary tuition and French classes.

Back in 2021, the business transitioned from Partnership into becoming a Limited Company and since then, the business has passed over 2 million in revenue as of 2023, with ambitions to surpass the 2.5 million mark this year.

In today’s conversation, we’re joined by Andy and Chris who will be giving us a sense behind the inception of TWINS Education, the challenges and hurdles they had to overcome as well as their future ambitions for this business.

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Today on the show, we speak with Melly Ling, CEO and Co-Founder of Mole, a local startup that has built an all-in-one networking platform with their very own business card and networking app.

They are essentially a networking tool that connects people at events and conferences, with the aim of turning every interaction into lasting insights. To tackle the downsides of networking events, Mole has introduced their very own, Mole card, an attendee's information digital card and an event management platform with the Mole App to be a power tool for event organisers.

Mole was founded in June 2022 and having bootstrapped at the start, the platform secured early-stage funding from Antler last year to fund the development of their digital business card and the networking app tailored for SMEs in Malaysia. Since then, the business has grown to new heights and is now looking at expanding their business card platform to other parts of Southeast Asia by next year.

On the show today, Melly will be giving us a sense of her journey in the tech world and how that led to the inception of Mole, the challenges she had to overcome with over a decade of experience in digital marketing, copywriting, design, and journalism as well as her long-term ambitions for the business beyond 2024.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we speak with Kristoffer Jacek Soh and Benjamin Long, co-founders of Beep Technologies, a company that started by enabling cashless transactions for vending machines and has since evolved to address Southeast Asia’s fragmented EV charging ecosystem.

Founded in 2018, Beep now operates Southeast Asia’s largest EV roaming network through its Voltality platform, connecting over 5,000 charging stations. Join us as we explore the journey of Beep, from its early days in vending solutions to its current efforts to unify EV charging infrastructure in the region. We discuss the challenges of navigating a highly fragmented market, the importance of partnerships, and more.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- How Beep pushed from cashless transactions to the EV charging space.

- The role of Voltality in connecting fragmented EV charging networks.

- Key challenges and strategies for overcoming them in the Southeast Asian market.

- Insights into Beep’s growth strategy, including partnerships with operators like Sime Darby and Grab.

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In this episode of Open For Business, we sit down with Chang Lih Yen and Chan Qi Yang, Co-founders and Managing Directors of FinKnight, a Malaysia-based financial advisory startup. Initially launched as Beetle Knight Advisory, the company rebranded to FinKnight in 2023 to better reflect its mission of simplifying financial management for startups and SMEs. To support this ambition, FinKnight secured funding from First Move and Gobi Partners, which will be used to fuel their expansion across Malaysia and beyond.

Join us as we dive into their journey, from their backgrounds in finance to co-founding FinKnight to help other businesses with their finance workloads and financial planning, including bookkeeping, advisory, fundraising, and more.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

- The problem FinKnight is solving for startups and SMEs.

- How the company’s rebranding reflects its evolution and future plans.

- Key strategies for scaling and acquiring customers in a cost-conscious market.

- Insights into FinKnight’s business model and growth ambitions.

Tune in to hear the story of how FinKnight is working to become a partner for businesses in need of finance expertise, bookkeeping, and advisory.

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Today, we speak with Sharma Lachu, Founder & CEO of Accendo Technologies. They’re a talent intelligence platform that integrates with core HRMS solutions that allow organisations to understand their talent’s potential roles and career paths, identify their risks, conceptualise strategies, assess role fit, and create development plans linked to their career growth.

Formerly known as Arcane Solutions, the company was rebranded to Accendo Technologies back in 2013 with a particular focus on talent development and upskilling using technology and AI-driven innovations.

In 2019, Accendo was included in the Deloitte Fast 500 Asia Pacific Technology list, being one of only 8 companies in SE Asia that made it to Deloitte’s annual ranking of the fastest-growing Asia Pacific companies in the hardware, software, communications, media, life sciences and clean technology industries.

Earlier this year, the business raised funding rounds from OSK Ventures International and The Hive Southeast Asia with global expansion in mind.

Along the course of the conversation, Sharma will be giving us a better sense of the early days at Accendo Technologies and what drove their rapid growth as well as the vision for the company moving forward.

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“What I discovered was that business owners, especially SMEs, are petrified of employing people. It’s a huge problem that we wanted to solve.” Benjamin Thompson, Co-Founder and CEO of Employment Hero.

In this episode of Open For Business, we explore Employment Hero’s journey from a simple HR platform to becoming a “fully-autonomous” HR tech solution for SMEs. We dive into why Employment Hero is striving to build the first employment operating system (OS) to simplify hiring, retention, and firing for SMEs, and why it’s raised US$411 million to achieve this goal.

Joining us is Benjamin Thompson, Co-Founder and CEO of Employment Hero, who shares the company's origins, how it has evolved over the last 10 years, and the conviction behind his bold vision and why he believes Employment Hero is on track to become bigger than Atlassian.

In this conversation, you’ll learn:

- The personal motivation behind starting Employment Hero and how it evolved from Ben’s experience as an employment lawyer.

- How Employment Hero turned its HR platform into a comprehensive solution for SMEs.

- Why Employment Hero is confident it will one day surpass Atlassian, and how its total addressable market is driving this vision.

- Insights into the company’s US$411 million fundraising journey and how the funds are being deployed to fuel international growth and AI-driven recruitment solutions.

- The challenges of scaling a SaaS business, why it’s so capital-intensive, and how Employment Hero is navigating a path to profitability.

- How Employment Hero plans to leverage AI to disrupt traditional recruitment practices with their "SmartMatch" tool, creating a real-time talent pool for businesses.

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Today, we are switching it up a notch and taking you on an “exhilarating” journey behind the scenes of Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia’s newest adventure attraction. As the 8th Skyline Luge park globally and the 2nd in Southeast Asia, this “thrilling” (depending on your thrill appetite or level) destination offers a unique blend of gravity-fueled excitement and scenic beauty in the heart of the Klang Valley.

We explore the origins of this luge park concept, its latest innovations like Malaysia’s first spiral zipline, and how it is shaping the local tourism landscape with Gavin Barnes, the General Manager of Skyline Luge Kuala Lumpur. Get ready to discover what makes Skyline Luge a memorable experience for adventurers of all ages.

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Is turning everyday vehicles into billboards the key to breaking through ad overload?

In this episode of Open For Business, we explore how VOOH Media is attempting to transform the advertising landscape by turning everyday vehicles into mobile billboards. Joining us is Rajvinder Rai Singh, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of VOOH Media, who shares his journey from digital marketing and e-commerce to leading VOOH’s charge in vehicle out-of-home advertising.

Rajvinder discusses the challenges and opportunities in this unique advertising space, how VOOH Media is differentiating itself from competitors, and how the company leverages data to try and deliver high ROI for brands. He also dives into the future of vehicle advertising and the growth strategies VOOH Media is implementing to drive success in a crowded market.

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1 ton of food waste + Black Soldier Fly larvae = 100kg of animal feed + 200kg of fertiliser!? Does this mean that the secret to managing biowaste is hidden in fly larvae?

Founded in 2019, Entomal Biotech uses Black Soldier Fly larvae to transform organic waste into new products while reducing carbon emissions (compared to leaving the food waste in a landfill).

Having made US$310,000 in revenue in 2023 and on track to grow 4.7 times to US$1.48 million in 2024, Entomal has big ambitions ahead, aiming to hit US$3.7 million in 2025 and US$5.2 million in 2026.

However, given that the use of Black Soldier Flies isn’t proprietary IP or technology, what is going to stop a hungrier competitor from coming in and eating their lunch (or in this case their biowaste)? We get into that, and much more, in this episode of Open For Business with Yanni Ching, Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Entomal Biotech.

Among other things, Yanni shares with us:

- The inspiration behind starting Entomal Biotech.

- Differentiation in a non-proprietary tech market.

- Entomal’s value proposition and current offerings.

- Challenges and milestones from inception to commercialization.

- Ensuring quality and compliance in biowaste management.

- Revenue growth, profitability, and future financial expectations.

- Funding, investors, and strategic plans for scaling the business.

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When you go through security bag scans, have you ever wondered about how it works or do you just find it a hassle and wish the checks would move faster? Well, today look into the world of security technology in the field of cargo and baggage scanning solutions.

We speak to Lee Yuh Jiunn, the General Manager of Billion Prima, a Malaysian company specialising in developing and deploying cargo scanners. With over 15 years of experience, the company has evolved from a service provider to a manufacturer, focusing on X-ray scanners, optical character recognition systems, and radiation detection technologies.

In today’s episode, Lee YJ  shares about the inception of the company,  and how its innovations set Billion Prima apart from other players in this niche industry.

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Could turning ugly fruits into gelato be worth quitting university? For Hailey Yong, it was.

At just 20, Hailey, CEO and Founder of The Unusual Greens, left her studies behind to pursue TUG Gelato full-time, an enterprise that transforms imperfect and surplus fruits into delicious gelato. What began as a student competition idea in the HULT Prize has grown from a home kitchen project to a 123 sqft central kitchen, and now to two outlets, including a fully-equipped central kitchen.

Among other things, Hailey discusses the early challenges of convincing others—starting with her own family—of her vision, the R&D process that began in her own kitchen, and how she eventually transitioned her project from a side hustle to a full-time business.

She also delves into the importance of staying true to her mission while continuously innovating to stand out in a crowded market. Finally, Hailey talks about her future plans, including potential expansion and the possibility of external funding, all while staying committed to the cause of food sustainability.

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OGAWA, an iconic household name in the health and wellness industry that most Malaysians are familiar with – it doesn’t sound Malaysian but did you know that it is indeed a Malaysian brand?

What started as a passion for enhancing lives through innovative wellness solutions, and from its humble beginnings in 1996, OGAWA has grown into a recognisable brand, changing the way we think about relaxation and well-being.

In our conversation today withLeong Boon Hong, the Director of OGAWA Malaysia, we uncover the story behind the company’s journey – how it navigated early challenges, embraced technological advancements, and carved a niche in a highly competitive wellness industry, creating a healthier, more relaxed world.

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Does Malaysia really need another regulated crypto exchange? We explore that very question as we dive into the journey of HATA, Malaysia's latest digital asset exchange platform, with David Low, Co-Founder and CEO of HATA.

Founded in 2023, HATA is Malaysia’s 5th licensed Digital Asset Exchange (DAX) and the first to receive full approval from the Securities Commission (SC) since the regulator reopened DAX licence applications in November 2022.

David is no stranger to the crypto space having previously been the General Manager of Luno’s Asia Pacific operations. He was with Luno for 5 years as the crypto player scaled its regional business.

Together, we discuss what sets HATA apart in a competitive market, the challenges of navigating regulatory compliance, and the strategies HATA is employing to capture market share and drive growth.

Whether you’re a crypto enthusiast, investor, fellow entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of digital assets in Malaysia, this conversation provides interesting insights into the dynamic world of Digital Asset Exchanges in Malaysia.

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Founded in 2015, IGL Coatings develops and manufactures surface protection solutions, particularly known for its low and zero Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) ceramic coatings.

In the last 9 years, it has expanded its presence to over 50 countries and aims to offer high-performance, eco-friendly functional coatings for automotive, marine, aviation, and industrial applications.

With a stated commitment to sustainability, IGL Coatings has developed products that it says not only perform exceptionally but also contribute to reducing environmental impact. Their recent strategic alliance with CommerceDotAsia Ventures and recognition by the Financial Times as one of Malaysia’s high-growth manufacturing companies highlight their continued success and ambition.

The company was recently shortlisted as one of the 8 companies for Cohort 5 of the Scale Up by Endeavor, a program that works with early-stage, high-potential entrepreneurs.

Today, we explore Keong’s entrepreneurial journey, the challenges he faced, and what lies ahead for IGL Coatings as they continue to push ahead.

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Supply chains and warehouses are the lifeblood of any high-volume business, yet many still operate with outdated methods. In today’s competitive environment, where margins are slim and every advantage counts, this could be a costly mistake.

In this episode of Open For Business, we explore how Hatio, a provider of omnichannel fulfillment services and technology, is revolutionizing the supply chain industry in Southeast Asia. Founded in 2012 as HatioLab in South Korea, Hatio expanded to Malaysia in 2019 under the leadership of co-founders Zhen Cui and Bernard Hor. Their mission? To transform traditional warehouses into smart, efficient operations that can thrive in today’s fast-paced market.

We delve into Hatio’s journey, examining how they’re helping businesses like POS Malaysia and Spritzer embrace digital transformation, the challenges they’ve overcome, and the strategies they’re using to drive growth in a highly competitive landscape.

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On August 21st, BFM hosted the Enterprise Breakaway: From Farm to Franchise event, where industry experts and seasoned F&B operators explored the critical elements required to build a successful and lasting F&B business in Malaysia.

In the panel session titled "Start, Survive, and Thrive," BFM spoke with Patrick Sim, Managing Director of Secret Recipe, and Jessica Li, Co-Founder and COO of Pop Meals. Both shared their unique perspectives on managing and scaling F&B businesses, emphasising the importance of data-driven decision-making and operational simplicity in achieving long-term success.

Patrick discussed the challenges of sustaining and growing Secret Recipe, a brand that has been around for 27 years. He delved into the importance of maintaining a strong brand identity, the need for continuous investment in innovation, and the strategic decisions that have enabled Secret Recipe to thrive in a highly competitive market.

Jessica offered insights into how Pop Meals, formerly known as DahMakan, transitioned from a cloud kitchen model to a physical store presence. She highlighted how integrating technology and leveraging data have been crucial in refining their product offerings and enhancing customer experience. Jessica also shared the lessons learned from pivoting the business model and the value of staying attuned to customer feedback to drive growth and brand loyalty.

Key topics covered:

- The role of data-driven decision-making in scaling F&B businesses

- Strategies for maintaining brand consistency and customer loyalty

- The transition from a cloud kitchen model to physical stores

- The importance of operational simplicity in managing F&B operations

- Lessons learned from scaling a legacy brand like Secret Recipe

- How Pop Meals leverages technology to innovate and stay competitive

- Long-term growth strategies for F&B businesses in a dynamic market

Whether you’re a seasoned F&B operator or an entrepreneur looking to break into the industry, this episode provides invaluable insights into the strategies and mindset required to build a successful and sustainable F&B brand.

Tune in to hear how Patrick and Jessica are navigating the complexities of the F&B industry and what it takes to not just survive, but thrive.

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On August 21st, BFM hosted the Enterprise Breakaway: From Farm to Franchise event, where industry experts and seasoned F&B operators explored what it takes to build a successful and lasting F&B franchise in Malaysia.

In the Founder Fireside: Building a Malaysian Franchise session, I spoke with Bryan Loo, the Founder and CEO of Loob Holdings, the organisation behind the Tealive brand and the up-and-coming coffee chain, BaskBear.

Bryan shares his journey from being a biotechnology graduate to becoming a powerhouse in the F&B industry—a path that began with a chance encounter at a franchise exhibition in Taiwan.

During this engaging conversation, Bryan discusses the strategic decisions that fueled Tealive’s rapid expansion from a humble startup to nearly a thousand outlets, both locally and internationally. He delves into the challenges of navigating the competitive F&B landscape, the importance of processes and professionalisation, and the critical role of innovation and adaptability in staying ahead.

Bryan also opens up about the lessons learned from early missteps in overseas expansion, the importance of choosing the right business partners, and how Tealive is positioning itself for future growth in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Key topics covered:

- Bryan’s accidental entry into the F&B industry and the early days of Tealive

- Strategic decisions behind Tealive’s rapid local and international expansion

- Navigating challenges in the competitive F&B landscape

- The role of innovation, adaptability, and professionalisation in scaling a brand

- Lessons learned from early overseas expansion attempts

- The importance of choosing the right business partners

- Tealive’s future growth strategies in Southeast Asia and beyond

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business leader, this episode offers valuable insights into building and scaling a successful F&B brand in a dynamic market.

Tune in to hear how an "accidental entrepreneur" became an F&B titan.

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How did Wonderboys Cleaning turn RM4,000 in startup capital into a business that makes RM600,000 in annual revenue?

From doom scrolling on Instagram at 2 a.m. to building a thriving cleaning services business, today we dive into Sathya Selvarajah’s journey with Wonderboys Cleaning. Launched in 2019 with just RM4,000 in startup capital, what began as a university side hustle has grown into a full-fledged business generating RM600,000 in annual revenue with strong margins.

With over 500 clients serviced, including well-known names like Kapten Batik and Common Ground, and a partnership with Knight Frank, this episode of Open For Business explores how Sathya started and grew Wonderboys Cleaning, the challenges he faced, the strategies he used to scale, and his plans to expand beyond KL.

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On this episode of Open For Business, we welcome Dino Loh, Director of Swing & Pillows, Malaysia's largest co-living and hotel chain operator. Dino shares insights into the company's recent expansion into Bukit Bintang with the acquisition of five hotels under the Kingston brand. This move strengthens Swing & Pillows' presence in key locations, offering a range of accommodations from entry-level to premium. We’ll discuss how this acquisition positions the brand for future growth and its strategy to dominate Malaysia’s hospitality sector. Tune in for a closer look at the company’s vision for the future.

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Tired of swiping? Swipeless is on a mission to bring back real-life dating through curated, offline activities.

This platform connects singles not through screens, but through shared experiences—think pizza-making workshops, hiking trips, quiz nights, and board game sessions. With about 700 members and growing, Swipeless is focused on enhancing genuine interactions in an increasingly digital world. Founder Shan Li aims to rekindle the magic of in-person connections with a fresh, curated approach.

Shan Li is no stranger to entrepreneurship; she co-founded the successful mum-and-baby e-commerce business Baby Dash, which raised RM2 million through equity crowdfunding in 2017. As a partner at ScaleUp Malaysia and with over 20 years of experience—including 12 years at CIMB—Shan Li brings a wealth of knowledge from both the corporate and startup worlds.

In this episode, we explore the story behind Swipeless, the unique opportunity Shan Li sees in reviving real-life connections, and her journey from corporate life to pioneering new ventures in the digital age.

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Salad Atelier, possibly the first name to come to mind when one craves a fresh and delicious salad, especially when you think of its poke bowls and the joy of customising your own meal to perfection.

As Salad Atelier celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, we speak with the Founder, Dylan Lee, to reflect on a decade of growth and innovation. Salad Atelier has added flavour to the Malaysian food scene with its commitment to healthy, delicious, and sustainable dining. With over 30 outlets and plans to expand to 38 by year-end, Salad Atelier displays the characteristics of perseverance, creativity, and consumer engagement.

In this conversation with Dylan, we follow the journey of Salad Atelier, from overcoming initial challenges to achieving progressive growth, exploring the strategies that have driven its success. We also discuss the importance of sustainability, how Salad Atelier adapts to local tastes, and Dylan’s vision for the future.

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How can homeowners make the switch to solar energy without breaking the bank?

Founded in 2022, Okapi Solar is on a mission to make solar power more accessible to homeowners by offering financing solutions that eliminate the high upfront costs typically associated with solar panel installations. Okapi buys the solar panels first, and then leases it to homeowners.

Zhern Yung and Christopher, both with backgrounds in banking and engineering, share their journey of leaving the corporate world to venture into entrepreneurship. They discuss the challenges and opportunities they’ve encountered in the solar energy sector, and how their experience has shaped Okapi’s approach to financing.

Okapi Solar’s financing plans are designed specifically for landed residential properties, allowing homeowners to install solar panels with zero upfront payment and fixed monthly lease payments over a period of up to 10 years. The co-founders delve into the company’s business model, the balance between raising and deploying funds, and the importance of evaluating customer creditworthiness to maintain a healthy business.

As Okapi Solar targets financing 100 residential solar energy systems per month by the first quarter of 2025, Zhern Yung and Christopher also discuss their future plans, including scaling their operations, expanding partnerships with solar installers, and much more.

Tune in to learn how Okapi Technologies is lowering the barrier to solar power adoption, and what lies ahead for this innovative startup.

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We talk to Harith Aqil, the founder of LOOKOO, a local F&B startup that’s set to change how we think about doughnuts with their unique twist—doughnut balls. Inspired by his time in Melbourne, Harith launched LOOKOO in 2022 with the help of his childhood best friend. Their delicious doughnut balls have quickly gained popularity, available not only in their physical store but also through food delivery platforms like GrabFood, Foodpanda, and ShopeeFood.

We discuss with Harith about his journey from the 9-5 world to the entrepreneurial path, exploring the motivations behind starting LOOKOO, the challenges faced in the F&B industry, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for the brand.

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In a world dominated by smartphones and tablets, is there still room for a premium stationery and notebook brand?

As Mossery celebrates its 10th anniversary as a full-time business, we sit down with Jun Lim, co-founder and CEO of Mossery, to explore the brand’s evolution from a pet project among graphic design students to a homegrown stationery brand with an international presence.

We delve into Mossery's unique journey, discussing the founding story and early challenges, the brand’s design philosophy and working with illustrators and designers across the world, and how these collaborations have helped Mossery grow its presence beyond Malaysian borders. These collaborations have helped Mossery stand out in a crowded market and appeal to a global audience, with 85% of its sales coming from international markets, particularly the United States.

Beyond that, we also explore how and why the company is adapting its business model to meet evolving consumer demands, with Jun sharing that Mosery will be shifting to a B2B focus. He also provides a glimpse into the company’s financial strategies, including bootstrapping the business and managing the logistics of customised production, and he shares his vision for Mossery’s future in both digital and physical spaces, including potential strategic partnerships and plans for further expansion.

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Founded in 2015 by a group of friends united by a passion for fitness and a commitment to healthy living, Soluxe Nutrition emerged from a shared desire to redefine the world of nutrition. Dissatisfied with the artificial-laden products that dominated the market, these long-time fitness enthusiasts embarked on a mission to create an alternative that not only supports optimal health but also stays true to the power of natural, plant-based ingredients.

What began as a small startup with a single focus on premium pea protein has blossomed into a journey of growth. Soluxe Nutrition now offers a range of 11 protein varieties and a superfood green, all developed with meticulous attention to quality and sustainability.

Today, we speak with the Co-Founder of Soluxe Nutrition, Wilson Quah, about his passion, perseverance, and pioneering spirit that have propelled Soluxe Nutrition to what it is today in the health and wellness industry.

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With his 20 years of experience in the rubber industry, Steven founded Geomax Rubber in 2018 with the aim to revolutionise the footwear industry by upcycling rejected nitrile gloves into eco-friendly soles and shoes. The company has developed an effective method of converting rejected nitrile gloves into high-performance eco-friendly rubber compounds, leading to the creation of their unique product line under the brand Solewell. Their offerings include safety shoes, sandals, boots, and soles.

Today, we dive into the past, present, and future of this venture, including their unique value proposition, the challenges faced, and their ambitious plans ahead. We’ll explore what led Steven down this very specific path, the partnership with recycling industry players Andrew Siah and Danny Lee, and their expansion into new market segments like women’s footwear and school shoes.

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ReU Living builds communities for senior living and post-hospitalization recovery. It's a joint venture between eldercare solutions provider Meaningfull Life Sdn Bhd and Tan & Tan Developments Berhad, a wholly owned subsidiary of IGB Bhd.

Anna Chew, following her experience at CARE Concierge, co-founded ReU Living to fill a crucial gap in the market by offering premium eldercare services and post-hospitalization recovery.

Described by The Edge as a “retirement village, elder care centre, and a convalescent home all rolled into one,” ReU Living combines advanced physiotherapy with holistic treatments, including traditional Chinese medicine. Their first facility, located at MiCasa Hotel along Jalan Tun Razak, boasts 108 bedrooms with fees starting at RM7,500 a month for long-term stay.

Today, we'll explore the creation of ReU Living, its partnership with Tan & Tan, the challenges faced, and their ambitions for the senior living industry.

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We speak with Yeo Kwong Jin, Founder at Fiskor, a contemporary Malaysian cracker brand which uses cutting edge technology in the production of lekor chips. We’ll discuss Jin’s rationale for entering the lekor business as well as how the business is managing the challenges in a tough and challenging F&B industry and their future ambitions going forward.

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CloudJoi is a ticketing service, streaming platform, and community hub designed for the performing arts. Founded in 2020 as CloudTheatre, the company has undergone several rebranding phases, evolving into CloudJoi in 2022. Since its inception, the platform has supported over 1,800 shows, partnered with more than 400 organizers, facilitated the sale of over 600,000 tickets, and generated over RM30 million in Gross Merchandise Value.

With strategic funding from Cradle in 2022 and expansion into Taiwan in 2023, CloudJoi continues to grow and innovate. Join us as we speak with Dennis Lee, CEO, and Kevin Teh, COO, to discuss their journey, the evolution of CloudJoi, and their ambitious plans for the future.

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We hear from Big Tiny, a property development company transforming the dream of serene, nature-immersed living into a reality. Founded by Jeff Yeo and his co-founders Adrian and Dave, Big Tiny combines eco-friendly tiny homes with the beauty of nature, offering a sustainable travel experience. With an initial investment of S$100,000, they broke even in their first year and now boast a portfolio of 300 tiny houses across the globe. In this episode, Jeff Yeo shares their journey from inception to international expansion, the challenges faced, and their future ambitions.

Image Credit: Big Tiny

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Paywatch is a financial services company that provides earned wage access (EWA) services to help employees get banked, receive credit, and improve their access to financial products.

Richard Kim, Co-Founder and CEO of Paywatch, founded the business in 2019 with his brother Alex. Together, they have built Paywatch as the only bank-backed and regulator-approved Earned Wage Access solution in Asia. Today, they have expanded their business not only in Malaysia and South Korea but also in other Asia Pacific countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, with their eyes set on Thailand and Vietnam ahead.

As of June, Paywatch had processed over $58 million in salaries through its system and was growing month-over-month by as much as 15%. Their user base is spread across South Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Indonesia, with notable clients including KFC, Pizza Hut (part of QSR Brands), Wilmar International, PayNet, and Jaya Grocer, among others.

Last month, Paywatch raised US$30 million (approximately RM141 million) in funding from a mix of equity and credit facilities to continue its growth and expansion plans.

In this conversation, Richard will give us a sense of why he started Paywatch, the problem he aims to address, the business opportunities present, the challenges in turning it into reality, and their growth path ahead.

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Founded in 2017 with the aim to redefine workspaces, Infinity8 today offers dynamic coworking environments that cater to both local and international businesses. With a focus on flexibility and comprehensive support services, Infinity8 provides not just physical space but also recruitment, HR payroll, and enterprise solutions. These offerings make it a differentiating player in easing market entry for foreign companies and supporting Malaysia's economic framework.

Today we speak to Lee Sheah Liang, the Co-Founder of Infinity8, on its journey from a 1,400 sq ft first floor lot and just 4 coworkers in Johor and explore the profound impact coworking spaces have on the local economy, and the strategic importance of Infinity8's expansions.

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Today, we speak with Ashvin Praveen, Co-founder and CEO of Cleve.ai. They're an AI-powered content workspace for creators to create, get inspired, and organise content with one tool. 

Ashvin founded the business back in December 2023 with his co-founders, Lizzie and Rashad, after the company secured funding from Antler, the global early-stage VC firm, earlier this year. Since their inception, Cleve has now grown to have over 120 weekly active users and steadily growing after also securing funding from Antler, the global early-stage VC firm, earlier this year.

In today’s conversation, Ashvin will be giving us a sense of how the idea of starting up an AI-powered workspace came about, some of the early challenges the company is currently facing and what’s in store for the business moving forward.

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On this episode of Open for Business, we dive into the world of mental wellness with Madiha Fuad, Founder and CEO of PlusVibes. Launched in 2020 during the pandemic, PlusVibes is a platform that combines digital and in-person mental health services, bringing together mental health associations, volunteer listeners, and campaigners on an all-in-one app.

With over 50,000 users, PlusVibes provides tools for self-development and motivation, including data reports on employee well-being and curated workshops with subject matter experts. Madiha shares her journey from journalism and F&B to creating a mental wellness platform, the challenges she faced, and the ambitions for PlusVibes in 2024 and beyond.

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We speak with Paresh Subramaniyam, Founder and CEO of Engage Life, a wellness company offering holistic health and well-being solutions for individuals and businesses. With clients like Motorola Solutions Malaysia, SME Bank Malaysia, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, and Continental Automotive Components Malaysia, Engage Life covers various dimensions of wellness, including environmental, physical, financial, mental, and social well-being. Paresh will share the journey of founding Engage Life, the challenges faced, and how the company has achieved recognition and funding through initiatives like the Digital Health Innovation Challenge 2021 and the MY Startup Accelerator Cohort 2.

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"The stress. The quantum of stress. To prepare a case that you need to do the submissions the next day, (that can take) 15-16 hours. You ask the young lawyer, they can't do it, they say they want a work-life balance. A lot of junior lawyers are leaving the profession because of the intense workload and lack of balance."

In this episode of Open for Business, we sit down with Francis Lui, Founder, CEO, and CTO of NexLaw.ai, an AI-powered legal trial copilot that provides innovative AI-driven solutions in litigation and dispute trial preparation.

Founded in 2023 by Francis and his wife Bernie Law, NexLaw.ai utilizes advanced AI algorithms to streamline various facets of legal work. The company’s services cover commercial and criminal law across major jurisdictions including the USA, UK, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Singapore. With a successful initial funding round from 500 Global in Silicon Valley, NexLaw.ai is now aiming to raise an additional $10 million to accelerate its growth.

Partnering with NVIDIA Inception, a program dedicated to nurturing startups with advanced technology, NexLaw.ai is poised to drive significant advancements in the legal AI industry. In this episode, Francis shares the motivations behind venturing into legal tech, the challenges faced in building the business, and the company’s ambitious plans for the future.

Tune in to learn more about how NexLaw.ai is transforming the legal industry, the role of AI in legal trial preparation, and the strategic steps the company is taking to expand its reach and impact.

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How do you feel when you hear the phrase team building? When your company tells you that you are going on an offsite team building weekend, do you moan and groan, or do you feel supercharged about it? Hopefully, today’s episode on Open for Business will help you - employers and employees alike - see team building in a different light.

In the business world today, team building has evolved beyond simple icebreakers and trust falls. It has become a vital component of corporate culture and organisational success, driven by the growing recognition of the importance of fostering collaboration, communication, and cohesion among employees.

Companies are seeking out activities that not only promote teamwork but also enhance problem-solving skills, boost morale, and improve overall workplace productivity. As businesses navigate the complexities of a post-pandemic world, the role of team building in fostering resilience, adaptability, and unity has become even more crucial, especially with the rise of remote and hybrid work environments.

So, how does one push the boundaries of traditional team building? We speak with the Founder and CEO of ATAG, Arthur Woo, to uncover the story behind ATAG, explore the challenges and triumphs along the company's journey, and gain insights into the future of team building in today’s corporate landscape.

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In this episode of Open for Business, we speak with Dalia Alkatiri, Founder and Managing Director of Bakin Love, a Malaysian-based baking business that sells fail-proof baking premixes to consumers and businesses.

Founded in December 2022, Bakin Love is present across e-commerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee, TikTok, and The Noor, but also physical retailers like Village Grocer.

Dalia shares her journey from being a startup advisor to an active business owner, the challenges she faced along the way, and Bakin Love’s ambitious plans for expansion ahead.

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In recent years, Malaysia's digital economy has undergone a remarkable transformation, fundamentally reshaping how consumers interact with businesses and services. The travel sector, in particular, has seen significant shifts, with online transactions becoming an integral part of daily life. This rapid digitalisation, accelerated by the pandemic a few years ago, has changed consumer behaviour and driven substantial economic value through digital platform business models.

Amidst this progressively developing landscape, online bus ticketing platform, redBus, has emerged as one of the forerunners in the travel industry. Established in India in 2006 and now operating in Malaysia since 2015, as well as in multiple countries, redBus leverages technology to offer seamless and personalised travel experiences. By harnessing the power of generative AI, redBus optimises operations and enhances customer satisfaction, empowering both travel operators and end consumers.

Today, we speak with Krishnan Ramaswami, the Chief Business Officer for International Business at redBus, on how the company is navigating Malaysia's dynamic digital economy, its growth journey, and future technological adoption.

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With their patented modular edible hydroponic green walls, Grobrix is on a mission to reconnect urban communities with the source of their food, promoting healthier and more sustainable lifestyles.

Started between 2019 and 2021, Grobrix has built a presence in more than 70 commercial locations across Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, with ambitious plans to triple its urban farming footprint in 2024. They are building on their current success in Singapore and Malaysia while expanding into North America through their recently announced partnership with Green City Growers. In just two years, Grobrix has reportedly grown quarterly revenue by over 500%, driven by the company’s transition from a business-to-consumer service to a business-to-business model.

From the trading floor to green walls, Mathew joins us today to explore Grobrix’s journey, including their subscription-based Farming as a Service model, the strategic move to B2B, their expansion into the North American market, and the exciting developments with Grobrix 2.0. Join us as we delve into all this and much more.

Image Credit: Grobrix

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On this episode of Open for Business, we discuss the evolution of expense management platforms in Malaysia with Ivan Alias, Deputy Chief Commercial Officer at Merchantrade Asia.

We'll explore how Merchantrade Asia's latest corporate solution, Merchantrade Money Biz, which is also Malaysia's first corporate wallet, is redefining expense management for businesses of varying sizes and how businesses can navigate the challenges and opportunities in this ever-changing tech environment.

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Among some of the key findings from Malaysia’s National Health and Morbidity Survey 2023 includes the fact that 15% of adults in Malaysia have diabetes, 29% have hypertension, 33% have high cholesterol, and that 54% are overweight. These health issues are not unique to Malaysia and in response to similar trends in Singapore, Novi Health has entered the chat in an attempt to address these rising concerns.

Founded in 2019 by Dr. Sue-Anne Toh, Dr. Joanne Tay, and Dr. Kyle Tan, Novi Health specialises in diabetes care and weight management, integrating clinical treatments with behavioural and lifestyle interventions, but expects to expand into health optimization and improving health longevity in the near future. In 2022, Novi Health raised $5 million in a Series A round led by Monk’s Hill Ventures to power this ambition.

Today, on Open for Business, we dive into how Dr. Sue Anne Toh and her co-founders built Novi Health, the business promise and potential, and what the path ahead looks like for this HealthTech company.

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Founded in 2018, POMEN has moved from being a B2C platform to a B2B one, now helping connect companies like PETRONAS and Maxis with workshops to help manage their fleets. On top of that, it is also trying to help workshops streamline operations, manage customer relationships, and more.

On the back of launching a new product called ENGARAGE - the company aims to double the number of workshops on the platform and enroll 3,000 workshops across Malaysia by March 2025. Today we drive into the world of automotive workshop management to learn more about the company, and how and why it’s trying to transform the automotive service industry, what they are looking for in future external investors, and much more.

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Malaysia's cuisine is a captivating blend of flavours reflecting the country's rich cultural diversity. With influences from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous traditions, Malaysian food offers a unique and tantalising blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients.

Within this culinary landscape, the pickle industry holds a special place. Pickles, a beloved staple in Malaysian households, are celebrated for their ability to enhance dishes with bold, complex flavours, making them a cherished part of Malaysia's gastronomic heritage.

Homegrown Pick A Pickle has carved a niche with its artisanal approach to homemade pickles and pastes. This business merges traditional recipes with contemporary twists, offering a delightful array of tangy pickles and savoury pastes that capture the essence of local flavours.

Founded with a passion for preserving culinary heritage, Pick A Pickle products are a culmination of creativity, and the rich gastronomic tapestry of Malaysia. Whether one is a connoisseur of spicy tang or a seeker of unique taste experiences, Pick A Pickle takes you on a journey through the authentic taste of home-cooked goodness, one jar at a time.

Today, we speak with Co-Founders Allan and Audrie Yeo to learn more about this father-daughter family business and their journey in bringing traditional Malaysian flavours to a wider audience, as well as their vision for the future of Pick A Pickle.

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Founded in April 2023, Notti Pet Food is a local pet food brand that wants to elevate pet kibble and recently secured RM2.4 million in seed funding from venture capital firms 500 Global and First Move to accelerate its mission.

The company crossed RM1 million in revenue in 6 months and is on track to hit RM2 million in revenue for its first year in business. With aims to hit 8-figures in revenue in the next 2 years, Notti will be focused on accelerating growth through new products and further market expansion into the Philippines and Singapore.

At present, the company produces slow-baked kibble, using human-grade meat alongside fruits, vegetables, probiotics, and prebiotics., and is in over 100 pet shops, mostly in Malaysia, but with a minor presence in Singapore, Hong Kong, and the Philippines.

Today, we'll dive into the origins of Notti Pet Food, from its inception just over a year ago to Ke Yee's ambitions for the future now that she’s secured RM2.4 million in seed funding, which all kind of started from a LinkedIn comment.

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Aonic was born as a commercial drone solutions provider for enterprises looking to modernise their operation workflow. While they are no stranger to the commercial drone industry, they are looking to expand beyond the skies and to build an ecosystem beyond just their core drone capabilities. Cheong Jin Xi, founder and CEO of Aonic, gives us a peek into this unique industry.

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By 2030, Malaysia is expected to transition into an ageing society, with individuals above age 60 and older to make up 15% of the population, and this is a business opportunity that multiple businesses are looking to address, and Sukha is a new contender in the ring.

Starting back in December 2022, Sukha Golden Sanctuary initially focused on specialised support to elderly individuals with dementia and other cognitive impairments. Today the company says it has a Retirement Clubhouse concept and positions itself as focusing on holistic well-being and having a community-based care model, which we will flesh out further in the show.

To expand their services and set up the Sukha Senior Resort in PJ New Town, Sukha is trying to raise between RM3.6 million and RM6 million by offering up to 16.7% of the company via equity crowdfunding on PitchIn. This fundraise values the company at RM30 million. 

So, on top of exploring this fundraising exercise, we will dive into the story behind Sukha Golden's inception and their positioning in the senior living industry, as well as the company’s growth trajectory and projected pathway to a RM1 billion IPO in 6-10 years time.

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Leaving Wall Street to revolutionize Islamic finance, solo founder Junaid Wahedna raised $82 million in his mission to eliminate interest from Muslim lives worldwide. With that funding, he built a robo-advisor model that’s profitable in the three main countries Wahed operates in: the US, the UK, and Malaysia. These markets contribute almost equally to Wahed’s approximate $1 billion in AUM. That said, Wahed is still not profitable on the group level.

However, now that the base model works, Junaid has handed the role of CEO to COO Mohsin Siddiqui, who has been tasked with replicating the business model and scaling the company into markets across the world, aiming to take Wahed from $10 million to $100 million in revenue. Junaid has transitioned to the role of Chairman to focus on overall strategy, building new products, and advancing the larger mission.

Join us on this episode of "Open for Business" as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Junaid Wahedna. He shares his entrepreneurial journey, from leaving a lucrative career on Wall Street to creating a platform that caters to the needs of the Muslim community by offering Sharia-compliant investment solutions. Junaid recounts how a taxi ride in New York sparked the idea for Wahed back in 2015, leading to raising $75-$82 million over the last nine years and establishing offices in 11 countries, including Malaysia.

Don't miss out on this captivating discussion with Junaid Wahedna, only on Open for Business.

Key Takeaways:

Inspiration from a Taxi Ride: The idea for Wahed was sparked during a taxi ride in New York when a Bangladeshi driver shared his struggle with Sharia-compliant investments. He didn't want to keep his money in a bank because he was a practicing Muslim and wanted to avoid interest, so he had put all his savings into Apple stock on the advice of his imam.

Mission-Driven Business: Wahed's core mission is to provide Sharia-compliant investment solutions, aiming to eliminate interest from all aspects of its customers' financial lives, reflecting the company's commitment to its values and the community it serves.

Organic Growth Powered by Referrals: Wahed has achieved significant growth through organic means, leveraging community trust and referrals rather than relying heavily on traditional marketing methods.

Solo Founder Success: Despite conventional VC wisdom favoring co-founders, Junaid Wahedna believes that many of the most successful entrepreneurs possess an autocratic personality and emphasizes the importance of control.

Raising Capital While Maintaining Control: Junaid successfully raised between $75-$82 million without giving up control, issuing only common stock and not giving any board seats to investors.

Global Expansion: Wahed has expanded to multiple differing markets (the US, UK, Malaysia, and UAE), demonstrating the scalability and international appeal of Sharia-compliant investment products.

Diverse Product Offerings: Wahed's product portfolio includes a robo-advisor platform, ETFs, equity crowdfunding, and a gold-backed debit card, illustrating the company's innovative approach to addressing various financial needs within the Muslim community.

Balancing Faith and Business: Junaid emphasizes the importance of balancing faith-based values with business decisions, ensuring that Wahed stays true to its mission while achieving profitability.

Efficient and Lean Operations: Wahed's ability to break even quickly in new markets, highlights the company's focus on operational efficiency and cost management. Their new UAE operations currently on track to break even within one year.

Acquisition Strategy: Wahed strategically acquires companies to accelerate growth and enhance its product offerings, such as the acquisition of a digital banking app in the UK for its infrastructure and team.

Future Plans and IPO Considerations: While an IPO is seen as a potential path for liquidity and community ownership, Wahed remains focused on its long-term growth strategy and maintaining control to continue its mission-driven work

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Established in 2012, Complete Human Network helps companies deal with their electronic equipment needs, allowing enterprises to optimise their IT budget and minimise IT-related hassles by leveraging Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) and Enterprise Mobility as-a-Service (EMaaS) solutions, packaging IT devices and software services on a subscription basis.

In today’s conversation, Chai Peng will give us a sense of the journey she’s been on with CHN and the business of enterprise mobility, the underlying business performance and growth, as well as her ambitions ahead.

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Evlos is an artificial intelligence (AI) company that provides AI-powered computer vision solutions to manufacturers all over Malaysia.

Announced last month, the company secured its first institutional funding round from Kumpulan Modal Perdana (KMP), a tech-focused venture capital owned by the Minister of Finance (Incorporated), which will be used to expand the team and power growth ahead.

Shankar and Rahul, the Co-Founders of Evlos, will walk us through the shift from Cedar Technologies to Evlos and the value proposition today, how they’ve built this business over the last 5 years, and their ambitions ahead.

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Today we speak with Dr. Matt Kan, the Founder of Chiropractic First Group. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Kan has been advocating for chiropractic care in Malaysia, where back pain and bone and joint complications affect several million people here.

Inspired by a personal encounter with the healing power of chiropractic, Dr. Kan has dedicated his life to debunking myths and raising awareness about the vital role of our spines in overall health. He will shed light on the science behind chiropractic adjustments, and how this approach can restore mobility, relieve pain, and support the body's natural ability to heal itself.

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From pandemic project to Nasdaq listing later this year, Jin Tan started ReSkills back in 2020 as an online educational portal with the aim of making learning accessible and affordable where the portal connected learners with trainers from across the globe. Today it's a subscription-based online learning platform offering global access to daily live learning sessions and other career-oriented materials. All for USD$1 a month.

Last week, in conjunction with its 4th anniversary, the company unveiled a 5-year roadmap and announced that it is taking steps to list on the NASDAQ as part of its vision to become the world’s primary AI-powered global Learning Hub.

Today on Open for Business, you will learn about the newly announced roadmap and ReSkills strategies for expanding its international footprint, but before that we’ll go back to the origins of this company and explore the journey Jin has been on over the last 4 years.

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In the bustling landscape of healthcare innovation, one company is making waves with its products and with a purpose. Rightfully sounding like a company on a purpose, bpositive, is a social enterprise founded in April 2023 by Corey Bryant, a veteran with nearly two decades in the medical device industry. From its adorable, superhero-themed bandages to its impactful Buy1Help1 initiative, bpositive is redefining what it means to be a healthcare provider.

As Malaysia faces the challenges of an ageing population and rising non-communicable diseases, bpositive’s entrance into the Malaysian market is timely. We speak with Corey Bryant, the Founder of bpositive, to learn more about his company, its ethos and inroads into Malaysia.

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