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BIZ & FINANCE THURSDAY | JULY 24, 2025

‘Empower MSMEs in digital commerce’

o Think tank Wawasan stresses role of tech partners in helping local firms expand and thrive

KUALA LUMPUR: The Wawasan Institute for Policy Excellence (Wawasan) is urging a more con structive and collaborative approach to discussions surrounding Malaysia’s digital commerce landscape. The association said that at a time when local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) face mounting competition, platforms that actively invest in enabling seller success must be recognised and supported. Rather than focusing narrowly on pricing debates, Wawasan believes attention should be placed on how digital platforms are empowering Malaysian MSMEs by offering access to training, AI-powered analytics, performance insights, and trusted delivery and transaction systems. “We need to move away from a binary framing of sellers versus platforms. In reality, both are deeply interconnected, and so are their futures,” Wawasan founding director Tarmizi Anuwar said in a statement.

He said a strong digital economy is only possible when sellers, buyers, and platforms work together to build trust, efficiency and growth. Wawasan noted that some platforms in Malaysia have made significant investments to strengthen the seller ecosystem. For instance, widely available seller education programmes such as free online classes and masterclasses on campaign participation, digital marketing, and content creation have helped many small businesses upskill and stay competitive. Real-time tools that provide data on product performance, buyer demographics, and market trends also help sellers optimise their listings and pricing more effectively. Additionally, improvements in logistics infrastructure such as same day or next-day delivery options and self-collection at designated pickup points, have become increasingly common.

Helping small businesses succeed online means giving them the right support, not just a place to sell.– BERNAMAPIX

local MSME development should be part of the national strategy. These are not just online marketplaces, but digital infrastructure partners that help entrepreneurs grow sustainably. Wawasan also warned that as international players continue to enter the Southeast Asian market, Malaysian MSMEs will face increasing price pressure. Undermining the local platforms that support sellers could leave small businesses more vulnerable to undercutting by foreign competitors offering low-cost goods without reinvesting in the local economy. “We need to recognise that Malaysia’s MSMEs don’t just need a place to sell, they need partners that help them grow, compete and scale. “When platforms offer the tools, infrastructure, and insights to do this, it benefits not just the seller, but the whole economy,” added Tarmizi. Wawasan concluded by calling for open dialogue and partnership among the government, platforms, and seller associations to build a resilient, inclusive, and competitive e-commerce landscape. “The health of our digital economy depends on how well we collaborate. When platforms succeed in lifting sellers, we all win. That’s the spirit Malaysia must move forward with,” Tarmizi said.

“These features aren’t just technical upgrades; they’re strategic investments into seller success. “Every ringgit spent improving logistics or buyer confidence helps sellers secure more loyal customers,” added Tarmizi. As Malaysia continues to pursue its MyDigital agenda, Wawasan believes that platforms prioritising

These services not only benefit consumers but also directly improve order completion rates and reduce cancellations for sellers. Many platforms also offer built-in buyer protection and return mechanisms, which reinforce consumer trust and, in turn, drive repeat purchases, ultimately benefiting seller performance.

ECIB becomes key investor in Oasis Harvest with 5.78% stake KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia listed food and beverage (F&B) player Oasis Harvest Corporation Bhd announced that European Credit Investment Bank Ltd (ECIB) has become a substantial shareholder in the company. This is a significant milestone for Oasis and a clear indication of our growth potential. “ECIB’s deep experience in finance and strategic advisory will be invaluable to us. Entry of ECIB brings financial expertise and

regional insights that could help drive Oasis Harvest’s long term expansion. – OASIS HARVEST WEBSITE

“We look forward to a close collaboration, tapping into their insights to accelerate our strategic plans and create greater value for our shareholders,” he said in a statement. Established in 2008 and based in Labuan, ECIB specialises in investment banking and wealth management, with strong insights into the Asia-Pacific region. Under the leadership of its CEO Ken Lim, ECIB is known for its experience in capital markets and strict regulatory compliance. ECIB’s investment provides Oasis with a stable and strategic financial

ECIB, a Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA)-regulated investment bank, has acquired a 5.78% interest in Oasis, equivalent to 1,392,800 shares, through an open-market transaction on July 18. This development marks a significant vote of confidence from a reputable financial institution in Oasis’s future. Oasis executive director Ch’ng Eu Vern expressed his enthusiasm about the new partnership. “We are delighted to welcome ECIB as a substantial shareholder.

wider investment community. With the backing and expertise of ECIB, Oasis is in a stronger position to pursue ambitious growth opportunities and continue building on its success.

partner, strengthening the company’s foundation for future expansion. The association with a well regarded investment bank also boosts Oasis’s reputation and trust among clients, partners, and the

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