Let’s talk about Malaysia’s white elephant

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Silicon Valley, the world’s preeminent tech hub, regularly churns out next-generation tech. Not only does it house thousands of promising startups, but it’s also home to some of the world’s leading tech companies, including Apple, Google, Uber, Meta, and Visa.

The region’s rise and success has captured imaginations across the globe. After all, it has played a pivotal role in making California the largest sub-national economy in the world. In fact, if the state were a sovereign nation, it would be the sixth-largest economy.

Naturally, governments have taken notice and who wouldn’t? Silicon Valley’s unparalleled tech ecosystem, abundant venture capital, and world-class talent pool give life to its entrepreneurial spirit. In short, it’s the ideal environment for startups looking to make it big.

However, recreating Silicon Valley’s success in other parts of the world has been a lot easier said than done. Today’s featured piece spotlights Malaysia’s mismanaged attempt at setting up one of the world’s leading tech hubs in Cyberjaya and how the city has now become a white elephant for the nation.

Today we look at:

• How Malaysia’s ‘failed Silicon Valley’ is becoming a white elephant
• McKinsey’s take on Indonesia’s untapped reseller market
• Other newsy highlights such as Grab’s new feature for SEA visitors and Sayurbox’s latest downsizing efforts.

— Shravanth

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Malaysia’s white elephant

Image credit: Timmy Loen

If it were easy to replicate Silicon Valley’s success, everyone would be doing it, right? Well, most nations are putting in their best efforts, but the results are mixed.

In India, Bangalore has emerged as a promising startup capital but is still miles off the pace set in California. Over in Israel, they’ve got “Silicon Wadi” – a pun on the US tech hub. The region has generated reasonable success by tapping into the nation’s strengths in research and development.

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