Indonesia’s Fore Coffee announced that it will open its first Singapore outlet on 9 November 2023. The new outlet will be located at Bugis Junction. The coffee chain, which has over 150 stores across Indonesia as of September 2023, hopes to redefine Singapore’s coffee culture in the ‘Indonesian way’.
Fore Coffee sources its coffee beans directly from farmers in regions like Aceh Gayo, Toraja, West Java and Bali.
Fore Coffee’s expansion into Singapore will focus on signature beverages, from the beloved Gula Aren Latte to the Pandan Latte and innovative Butterscotch Sea-Salt Latte. Consumers can vary the sugar levels and the choice of dairy, with coffee offerings start at just SGD 4.5. A total of 16 key SKUs will be made available.
Fore Coffee’s competitor Kopi Kenangan will be opening two new outlets in Singapore as part of its entry into the market with one in Changi Airport and another at Raffles City shopping centre. The Raffles City outlet will open on 25 September 2023.
The Manado-based alcoholic drink producer PT Jobubu Jarum Minahasa has launched Daebak Spark Muscat Grape. The new low-calorie hard seltzer with a 5% ABV is targeting at adults 21 years and above, particularly Millenials and Gen Zs who do not like bitter-tasting beers.
The company worked with Korean experts to create Daebak Spark Muscat Grape, which is now available in Bali and Java.
Hard seltzer has emerged as a segment within the alcoholic drink industry in Southeast Asia but the concept has yet to take off due to the taste factor.
What is interesting is Jobubu Jarum Minahasa is applying Korean-inspired flavour into hard seltzer, which is still a nascent category even in South Korea.
ASTRO Indonesia, the quick commerce start-up platform that provides groceries and essentials in 15 minutes, has launched more products under its private label range Astro Goods.
The new products/flavours include Tempe Chips, Crispy Brownies and Popcorn. The Tempe Chips are available in Black Truffle, Sour Cream, Original, Sri Racha and Seaweed flavours.
Crispy Brownies offers the following flavours: Double Choco, Martabak Manis and English Cheddar. Popcorn comes in Chicago Caramel, Nebraska Corn Soup, Sweet & Salty, Dark Chocolate and Cheddar Jack.
ASTRO Indonesia harnesses its quick commerce model to sell private label products to obtain a higher margin.
From Mid-Autumn themed workshops and performances to a meaningful Lantern Walk for charity, embark on a fun-filled experience for family and friends!
Singapore, 14 September 2023 – Create joyously sweet family moments whilst celebrating Mid-Autumn festival at The Woodleigh Mall through a series of Mid-Autumn themed activities and rewards happening from 15 September to 24 September. Shoppers can look forward to colourful light installations, an insta-worthy lantern tunnel and family-friendly workshops at the atrium as well as a Lantern Walk for charity on 23 September. Bring your family and friends down to The Woodleigh Mall and be a part of this fun-filled experience!
Discover Fun Family Activities at the Atrium
From 15 September to 24 September, head over to The Woodleigh Mall L1 Atrium to experience the exciting line-up of Mid-Autumn activities for you and your family. Besides the activities, spot the colourful installation of lighted rabbits, wooden floral crates and the rainbow lantern tunnel centrepiece at the atrium. Don’t miss out this opportunity to get a beautiful family photo with the vibrant display. Share with us your best family poses with the rainbow lantern tunnel on Instagram and tag @thewoodleighmall!
Lantern Crafting and Mooncake Making Workshops
Let your imagination run wild with lantern crafting and mooncake making workshops at the atrium. Design your very own lantern using craft materials at the lantern crafting workshop for some artsy fun with your family. To further set your creativity in motion, learn how to make your own mini snowskin mooncakes while customising the colour and shape of the mooncakes. Nothing symbolises the Mid-Autumn festival like a box of mooncakes and lanterns crafted with love!
To sign up for the lantern crafting and mooncake making workshops, simply spend $30 in a single receipt to receive the respective workshop passes.
Lantern Crafting Workshops
Weekdays: 15, 18 and 19 September at 7pm
Weekends: 16 and 17 September, 2pm & 5pm
Mooncake Making Workshops
Weekdays: 20, 21 and 22 September at 7pm
Weekends: 23 September at 2pm & 24 September at 2pm and 5pm
*First-come-first-serve basis, while stocks last
Themed Storytelling Sessions
Immerse yourself in the Mid-Autumn storytelling sessions brought to you by EduGrove Mandarin Enrichment Centre and Berries World of Learning School.
Edugrove will be conducting their session on 16 September, 4pm while Berries will be conducting their sessions on 19 September and 22 September, 6pm as well as 24 September, 1pm.*
*These sessions will be conducted at The Woodleigh Mall’s Level 1 Atrium
Chinese Calligraphy and Robotics Workshop
Cultivate concentration and dexterity with Chinese calligraphy workshops held by Chengzhu Mandarin Centre on 20 September, 6pm. Familiarise yourself with basic strokes in the regular calligraphy script and proper brush techniques to produce visual art pieces that will showcase this captivating art form.
Additionally, enhance your critical thinking skills with Futurum Academy’s robotics workshop. Empower your innate artistry and learn how to craft in three dimensions with hands-on guidance from Futurum Academy facilitators. The robotics workshop is held on weekdays, 2 – 5:30pm and weekends, 6:30 – 8:30pm.*
Weekdays: 15, 19, 20, 21 and 22 September
Weekends: 16, 17 and 24 September
*These sessions will be conducted at The Woodleigh Mall’s Level 1 Atrium
Mid-Autumn Trivia Facts, Riddles and Games
From 15 September to 24 September, learn interesting science facts relating to the Mid-Autumn Festival via the interactive screens at the atrium. Provided by The Learning Lab, BlueTree Education and The Eton Academy, the facts offer knowledge about the moon whether it be the gravitational pull or the various moon phases. Be prepared to be blown away!
Additionally, put your knowledge of the myths and legends of the festival to the test with the Mid-Autumn Trivia Game. If you are looking for more action-packed fun, try your hand at the Lantern Quest Game where skills and speed are needed to hit as many lanterns as possible within 60 seconds.
To stand a chance at winning attractive F&B vouchers, participate in the thrilling Rabbit Hunt Digital Game. Go on a treasure hunt around the mall to collect all 5 rabbits to win F&B vouchers by simply scanning the QR codes that you find!
Participate in a Lantern Walk for Charity
Light up the Bidadari estate with lanterns over a moonlit stroll on 23 September, 7pm, and capture beautiful memories with your family and friends. What’s more, partake in trivia games like Mid-Autumn themed trivia and lantern riddle guessing for exclusive prizes, collect a goodie bag worth more than $10 and enjoy the delicious treats in the goodie bag after the stroll. Sign up now at our Information Counter on L2!
Registration fee: $10 (capped at 100 sign-ups)
In the spirit of giving back, The Woodleigh Mall will match dollar for dollar with every Lantern Walk ticket sold – all proceeds from the event will be used to purchase essential items to help families that require social assistance in collaboration with Viriya Community Services. These essential items will be consolidated into care packages, which will then be packed and distributed to those in need. As a social service agency organisation, Viriya Community Services seeks to promote fulfilling lives by providing social services to the community with the right effort and compassion.
Make sure to head down to The Woodleigh Mall to celebrate the Mid-Autumn festivities! Follow @thewoodleighmall for more information about the Mid-Autumn campaign.
Ruzita Puzi wants to hire more women to break the gender barrier
E-Commerce Courier Hired 40 times More Women Over 2 Year
KUALA LUMPUR, 15 September 2023 – This Malaysia Day, SPX, the delivery provider of SEA group with 118 hubs nationwide, celebrates two years of promoting women and closing the gender divide in a traditionally male dominated courier industry. SPX has been building robust relationships with local communities, as their work enables them to expand local sellers’ reach, create local economies, and fulfil essential orders during rainy seasons.
Cheah Lee Sun, Head of SPX
Since 2021, SPX has outpaced competitors by promoting inclusive initiatives at the workplace, hiring 40 times more women, in all kinds of management roles such as supervisors, hub leads, shift leads, and operational roles such as sorters, couriers, and riders. Today, a record 13% couriers and 40% sorters nationwide are women; SPX is the only e-commerce courier partner in Malaysia helmed by a female director, Cheah Lee Sun.
‘I welcome female couriers all over Malaysia, because I don’t see this industry as a male-dominated industry. No job is too heavy duty for women here whether it involves heavy lifting or driving commercial vehicles. Everyone is welcome, in the spirit of inclusion and supporting upskilling local talents in the communities where we operate,’ says Lee Sun, Head of SPX.
Company-Wide Visible Policy for Transparent Workplace
Lee Sun acknowledges that getting extra logistics capacity during peak ecommerce campaign periods can be very competitive. She makes personal visits to SPX hubs, sorting facilities, and warehouses, and rides along with her drivers, men and women equally, to ensure equal treatment of her employees and instant feedback systems to facilitate better performance. SPX has implemented a company-wide Visible Policy initiative, which means there are active channels for all employees to report any integrity or harassment issues anonymously.
Siti Sakinah Yusof started as a contract supervisor in the Kuala Terengganu Selatan hub and now is a full time hire at SPX
Siti Sakinah Yusof, 33, started as a contract supervisor in the Kuala Terengganu Selatan hub and due to her unwavering integrity and work ethic, she has been promoted to a full-time hire with SPX; as a mother of three children, she is a role model in cultivating a trustworthy, positive workplace environment. ‘Women must know how to take care of themselves and never hesitate to speak up about those with unethical behaviour,’ she said.
Job Flexibility Drives Better Performance
Nadiah Mohd Shukor, 34, looks out for working mothers under her supervision as a trainee in the Acting Area Manager Programme for Hulu Langat, Balakong, Serdang, and Titiwangsa. “I make sure they apply for leave when their child is sick, take lunch breaks and have proper meals while at work even during peak delivery periods,” she said. Being a mother herself to seven children, Nadiah understands that some of the women are doing two jobs and need the flexibility to work on shifts.
Lee Sun endorses this mentality, empowering all women with the flexibility to manage their own delivery schedules while building their own careers. While working as SPX couriers means they can drop their children off at schools while managing to deliver parcels by the end of their shift.
Delivering With More Empathy
As a result of such inclusive hiring policies, there has been an overwhelming culture of inclusion, discipline, and community-building at SPX. ‘There is just an attention to detail in handling parcels and an ability to remember our frequent buyers, that has been infused by women in all our territories. From my ride-alongs, I observe that they are more patient, more polite, and just care a lot more about people,’ mused Lee Sun.
Ruzita Puzi, 45, has worked for 20 years in this industry, and is now in a position to bring more job opportunities to women in Kedah at her Alor Setar Hub: ‘I want women from all walks of life to believe in themselves because they can succeed in anything, whether it’s in business or holding leadership roles within companies. Before this, there were no women employees in the hub. We hired two women to work as sorters and hope to hire more women to break the gender barrier.’
This Malaysia Day, SPX couriers nationwide galvanized teamwork to deliver 15,000 free ‘Unveiling Malaysian Gems’ books to regular customers, waving the national flag and taking photos. The books contain guides to women-owned businesses across all states who support women in their communities by hiring and including them in their businesses.
About SPX
Launched in 2020, SPX offers reliable and cost-effective delivery services across Southeast Asia, supporting SMEs, brands, and sellers. In Malaysia, it operates a nationwide network of delivery centers across 118 hubs. SPX continues to innovate its services, introduce new technologies, and develop local talent to serve customers better in the country. https://spx.com.my/
KUALA LUMPUR, 15 September, 2023 — Elevete Patisserie, a pioneering name in the local dessert industry, is proud to announce its recent achievement of securing a prestigious Halal certification from JAKIM. Led by visionary Edwin Chan, affectionately known as Pak Win, Elevete Patisserie has redefined the dessert experience for Malaysian customers, consistently delivering exquisite and Halal-certified confections.
The Halal certification underscores Elevete Patisserie’s commitment to ensuring that all of its desserts are crafted using only Halal ingredients. This certification provides customers with complete peace of mind, assuring them of the brand’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of quality and cultural sensitivity. Simultaneously, Halal certification signifies that every aspect of food production, including processing, packaging, storage, and distribution, has undergone rigorous scrutiny to ensure its safety.
Expansion: AEON outlets and Singapore Border
Under Pak Win’s leadership, Elevete Patisserie has reached new pinnacles of success. The brand has made its mark in various retail outlets, and its delightful creations are now available at selected AEON outlets and is expected to expand to most AEON outlets by October 2023. From delectable macarons to sliced cakes and tarts, customers can now savor Elevete Patisserie’s treats during their grocery shopping excursions.
Taking its innovative approach beyond local borders, Elevete Patisserie has also achieved an international milestone with its debut in Singapore. The brand’s global expansion is set to continue, with Singapore becoming the next permanent home for Elevete Patisserie, bringing its exquisite offerings to an even wider audience.
With the prestigious Halal certification from JAKIM and a visionary leader at its helm, Elevete Patisserie stands as a shining example of culinary excellence and cultural sensitivity. As the brand continues to redefine the dessert landscape in Malaysia and beyond, its commitment to quality, innovation, and inclusivity remains unwavering. Elevete Patisserie invites dessert enthusiasts to indulge in a symphony of flavors, crafted with love, and relish in the delightful experience it offers.
“In our journey to sweeten moments and create lasting memories, we are humbled and thrilled to have secured the Halal certification from JAKIM. This achievement is a testament to our dedication to serving the finest, Halal-certified desserts that not only tantalize taste buds but also respect cultural values. As we expand our footprint both locally and internationally, we look forward to bringing the joy of Elevete Patisserie to even more dessert aficionados, while expressing our deep gratitude to our cherished patrons through our Loyalty Customer Programme”, Edwin Chan (Pak Win), Founder of Elevete Patisserie.
Elevete Patisserie Celebrates the Halal Certification with a promotion
To celebrate this milestone, we are whipping up a special limited-time treat. Use promo code BESTHALALDESSERTSINTOWN for 8% off your order on https://www.elevete.com.my/.
The Spicy Crispy Chicken Wrap and Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger takes centre stage of the campaign.
KUALA LUMPUR, 14 SEPTEMBER 2023 – McDonald’s Malaysia has embarked on another exciting brand campaign, this time with the South Korean girl group sensation NewJeans, to ignite excitement and treat Malaysians to a month of delicious offerings and electrifying dance moves. This initiative is part of a regional campaign which began in South Korea before making its way to the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, and now in Malaysia.
The theme of the campaign revolves around the beloved Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger, along with the introduction of the highly anticipated limited-time offer, the Spicy Crispy Chicken Wrap. The Spicy Crispy Chicken Burger, a fan favourite, boasts the iconic flavours of the extra crunchy crispy chicken patty paired with mouthwatering spicy garlic sauce. On the other hand, the Spicy Crispy Chicken Wrap elevates the experience by complementing the crispy chicken patty with a golden hash brown, all perfectly wrapped in a warm tortilla.
In conjunction with these Spicy Crispy Chicken offerings, McDonald’s Malaysia also presents the McDonald’s Chicken Dance Mission. NewJeans fans can join this exciting mission until 24 September 2023, by showcasing their dance moves to the McDonald’s Chicken Song specially curated by NewJeans, on their Instagram profiles with the hashtag #McDChickenDance. Participants stand a chance to win exciting weekly prizes, including the McDonald’s x NewJeans Special Gift.
“The brand philosophy of McDonald’s Malaysia has always been to provide ‘delicious feel-good moments’ to Malaysians from all walks of life, and we always strive to find new ways to stay innovative while engaging with our loyal customers. To be a part of this regional initiative is a delight for McDonald’s Malaysia, as we get to share our excitement in engaging and treating NewJeans fans in Malaysia,” said Melati Abdul Hai, Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, McDonald’s Malaysia.
To encourage Malaysians to take part in the McDonald’s Chicken Dance Mission, McDonald’s will be hosting a special on-ground activation from 15 to 17 September 2023. During this period, individuals can visit the McDonald’s Bukit Bintang restaurant to record their McDonald’s Chicken Dance. Furthermore, customers at the McDonald’s Bukit Bintang restaurant will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an exclusive in-store experience and collect unique McDonald’s merchandise.
The grand finale of this exciting 3-day event, taking place on 17 September 2023, promises an array of programs from 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM. These include a crowd-pleasing McDonald’s Chicken Dance performance and master class, as well as the thrilling McDonald’s Chicken Dance-Off Mission. Malaysians can sign up for the dance-off mission and stand a chance to compete on the spot for attractive McDonald’s x NewJeans Special Gift and McDonald’s merchandise during this grand finale.
For more information about the Spicy Crispy Chicken offerings, visit McDonald’s Malaysia’s official website at www.mcdonalds.com.my
First futuristic flavor co-created with human and artificial intelligence drops alongside an AI-powered experience, inspiring the endless possibilities of an optimistic future.
KUALA LUMPUR (September 13, 2023) – Today Coca-Cola® launched Coca-Cola® Y3000 Zero Sugar, a new limited-edition flavor and AI-powered experience from Coca-Cola® Creations. Coca-Cola® Y3000 Zero Sugar is the first futuristic flavor co-created with human and artificial intelligence from Coca-Cola®, celebrating an optimistic future through the connections we make. The drop also includes an incredible new AI-powered experience that will give fans an unexpected and exciting perspective on what the year 3000 could look like.
The unique Creation unlocks a shared experience of Real Magic, offering fans a refreshing taste and a glimpse of what the future could look like through the new AI-powered experience of Coca-Cola. By scanning the Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar can, fans will be taken to the Creations Hub where they can use the customized Y3000 AI lens to imagine what the world could look like in the future.
“Our ambition for Coca-Cola Creations is to create unexpected and magical moments for our fans. Inspired by the timelessness of Coca-Cola, we want to celebrate everyone’s idea of what the future might look like,” said Oana Vlad, Senior Director, Global Strategy at The Coca-Cola Company. “With the help of AI-powered technology, Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar imagines how a Coca-Cola from the future could taste and introduces innovative experiences to explore the future.”
Coca-Cola created the Y3000 experience by tapping into human and artificial intelligence to understand how fans envision the future through emotions, aspirations, colors, flavors, and more. Fan’s perspectives from around the world, combined with insights gathered from artificial intelligence, helped inspire Coca-Cola to create the unique taste of Y3000.
The new Creation features a futuristic packaging design including light and optimistic tones, a Coca-Cola® Creations logo composed of effervescent bubbles, and the Coca-Cola Spencerian Script with fluid dot clusters that merge to represent the human connections of our future planet. Co-created with artificial intelligence, the design showcases liquid in a morphing, evolving state, communicated through form and color changes that emphasize a positive future.
“We’re excited to bring to life this latest innovation from our Coca-Cola Creations platform here in ASEAN & South Pacific. We continuously explore new ways to resonate to our consumers in new, immersive ways. The launch of Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar opens up the possibility of a world where humanity and technology can collaborate in harmony to create Real Magic. And we aim to deliver starting from how they experience and enjoy the delicious refreshing new flavor to offering them a glimpse of what year 3000 could look like through this AI powered experience.” says Tee Jae Sonza, Coca-Cola Trademark Category Head, Coca-Cola ASEAN and South Pacific Operating Unit.
Coca-Cola® Y3000 Zero Sugar is available in select markets around the world and drop soon here in ASEAN & South Pacific with Australia rolling the new Creations first. Select ASEAN markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia will follow suit in the upcoming months., including Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, The Coca-Cola Y3000 Zero Sugar drink follows the recently released Coca-Cola® Ultimate Zero Sugar, which was made available in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia early this year; and is currently available nationwide in the Philippines.
The global campaign was developed by Forpeople, Virtue, and WPP Open X/Ogilvy and EssenceMediacom.
Science meets skincare: Lifebuoy Multivitamins+ body wash and hand wash unlock a new era of daily hygiene and germ protection
Kuala Lumpur, 12 September 2023 – Unilever unveiled its latest advance in the realm of daily hygiene with the launch of its new antibacterial formula, Lifebuoy Multivitamins+, in its body wash and hand wash that ensures unparalleled germ protection for the entire family. Infused with vitamins B3, C, and E, the new formula works double-duty in supporting the skin’s natural defense against bacteria by improving skin protection and skin health properties in addition to killing germs, redefining how we think about hygiene.
Vitamin-infused skincare is not a new concept, but it has not yet caught on in the hygiene care category. Often seen as only basic hygiene products, body wash and hand wash are the most underestimated skincare items in our daily hygiene routine.
That is about to change as the first wave of Lifebuoy Multivitamins+ products hit Malaysian shelves.
[From left] Diyana Hashim, moderator, Siti Suhaila, MY-SG Skin Cleansing Lead, Unilever Malaysia, Dr Malar Santhi, health expert, Maryam Younarae and Joe Chang parenting KOLsSkin is our body’s first barrier against infection-causing germs from our surroundings. This antimicrobial function of the skin barrier is supported by an adequate supply of micronutrients, including vitamins. Some vitamins can be absorbed by the skin, which is why many skincare products contain vitamins as added ingredients. Hygiene products such as body wash and hand wash interact with our skin multiple times a day, every day. Therefore, looking out for cleansers that contain vitamins could give our skin an extra boost to fight germs, said Dr Malar Santhi at the launch of Lifebuoy Multivitamins+ in Sunway Pyramid.
How exactly do multivitamin properties help fight infection?
Our skin naturally produces antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in sweat and sebum. They function like tiny soldiers that our body sends out to fight harmful germs that try to enter our skin. By acting as antioxidants, vitamins B3, C, and E guard the skin barrier against free radicals that can interfere with AMP production. Furthermore, vitamins C and B3 are also known to promote a healthy skin barrier. Blended with other skin health ingredients, these vitamins complement the skin’s natural defenses against irritants and germs, offering a huge potential to help improve hygiene and combat preventable diseases.
Lifebuoy Multivitamins+ is scientifically proven to provide 10 times stronger germ protection than soap formula without active antibacterial ingredients, killing 99.9% of germs. It is also dermatologically tested for skin compatibility and clinically proven suitable for everyday use, leaving your skin feeling healthy and clean after every wash.
[From left] Caryn Loh, Managing Director Watsons Malaysia, Lenny Chuah, Personal Care Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand (MYSGTH) Lead & Head of Malaysia, Unilever Malaysia, and Maggie Tay, Malaysia-Singapore Head of Customer Business Development, Unilever Malaysia officiating the event.Celebrating the launch, Lenny Chuah, Head of Country, Unilever Malaysia and Country Business Unit Lead of Personal Care in Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand said, “With a steadfast commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of millions of Malaysians, we are constantly evolving our formula and raising the bar to foster healthier lives as this is a journey with no end goal. This is why Lifebuoy is the world’s number one hygiene soap brand. With our last revamp announced just five years ago in 2018, today’s launch that ushers Lifebuoy into a new era of hygiene and germ protection, stands as our testament. After all, it is our mission to ensure there is no loss of life due to preventable infections.”
Since 1894, Lifebuoy’s mission has remained as clear as ever: to be the people’s and families’ partner in health and make hygiene a simple part of everyday routines. Rooted in decades of research, experience, and heritage, Lifebuoy is now a household icon, chosen and preferred by families.
As the official partner of the launch, Caryn Loh, Managing Director, Watsons Malaysia said, “We are dedicated to providing a diverse array of reliable personal care choices for our customers and families across Malaysia. This is why this occasion holds a significant place in our hearts, as it not only marks our long-standing collaboration with Lifebuoy but also symbolizes our shared journey towards a healthier community.”
The NEW Lifebuoy Multivitamins+ comes in six body wash variants – Total 10, Gentle Skin Care, Lemon Fresh, Cool Fresh, Vita Protect, and Moisture Plus; and four hand wash variants – Total Protect, Activ Fresh, Gentle Skin Care, and Lemon Fresh. Suitable for kids aged 3 and above. Available in all retailers nationwide.
Launching Impact Together: A powerful moment with visionaries shaping the future of entrepreneurship.
L-R: Rashvin Pal Singh, Group CEO of Mereka and Biji-biji Initiative, Mdm. Noor Afifah binti Abdul Razak, Deputy Secretary General (Policy and Monitoring) of Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MECD), Mohd Suhaimi Abdul Hamid, CEO of Standard Chartered Saadiq Malaysia, and Juliana Adam, Director of Mereka and CEO of Biji-biji Initiative
Futuremakers by Standard Chartered and Mereka Join Hands to Support Women in Entrepreneurship Programme (WiE)
Kuala Lumpur, 11 September 2023 – In a bid to further empower women, Futuremakers by Standard Chartered and Mereka Innovative Education (Mereka) have introduced the Women in Entrepreneurship (WiE) Programme to equip local women-led organisations with essential business acumen.
The launch of WiE was officially inaugurated by Mdm. Noor Afifah binti Abdul Razak, Deputy Secretary General (Policy and Monitoring) of Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MECD) on Monday 11 September 2023 at Mereka Space, Publika Shopping Gallery, Kuala Lumpur.
Open to women-led organisations based in Malaysia with a minimum viable product (MVP) and a clear business model, the programme comprises webinars and pitching sessions, with a highly competitive selection process that will shortlist only 20 teams to participate in the bootcamp.
In addition, the top five (5) winning teams will receive seed funding from a pool of USD 100,000 and undergo a six-month dedicated mentorship programme, where they will receive guidance and support from experienced mentors in the entrepreneurship fields.
L-R: Farhana Mohd Noor, Project Director of Mereka, Rashvin Pal Singh, Group CEO of Mereka and Biji-biji Initiative, Juliana Adam, Director of Mereka and CEO of Biji-biji Initiative, Mdm. Noor Afifah binti Abdul Razak, Deputy Secretary General (Policy and Monitoring) of Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MECD), Datuk Yvonne Chia, Chairman of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia, Mastura Adnan, Head, Brand & Sponsorship, Impact and Community Engagement of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia, Mohd Suhaimi Abdul Hamid, CEO of Standard Chartered Saadiq Malaysia, Geraldine Tan Head, Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing Standard Chartered Malaysia
“We believe that women entrepreneurs have enormous potential to drive economic growth and innovation in Malaysia. Through this programme, we want to provide them with the necessary tools, resources, and guidance to build successful and sustainable businesses. We are hopeful that our current partnership with Mereka will drive more opportunities for women entrepreneurs as they look for growth beyond the COVID-19 period, where more than 176,000 entrepreneurs nationwide were forced to close their businesses.
“Since 2020, Standard Chartered has committed USD 25 million to support youth-focused economic recovery projects as part of Futuremakers by Standard Chartered, with the Standard Chartered as the lead delivery partner for all Futuremakers projects,” said Mohd Suhaimi Abdul Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Saadiq Malaysia.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with Futuremakers by Standard Chartered and Mereka on this initiative. Women entrepreneurs face unique challenges in accessing the support and funding they need to launch and grow their businesses.
“WiE is designed to address these obstacles by providing women entrepreneurs with access to essential resources and mentorship. By supporting women-led businesses, we can not only help them unlock their full potential, but also drive positive change and economic growth in communities across Malaysia. Moreover, by empowering women entrepreneurs, we can help close the gender gap in entrepreneurship and promote gender equality in our society,” said Juliana Adam, Director of Mereka and Chief Executive Officer of Biji-biji Initiative.
Applications for the WiE Programme are now open, and interested teams can apply via the Women in Entrepreneurship official website at https://wie.mereka.my/
China’s Nongfu Spring has secured a major milestone in Malaysia with the nationwide listing of its Cha Pai (茶π) ready‑to‑drink fruit‑flavoured tea series at...
