Ganesh Kumar Bangah’s Post

Congratulations to #AWS and #Endeavor_my for a highly successful Startup Day Malaysia event this week! At my end, I truly enjoyed participating in the panel discussion on ‘Driving Exponential SaaS Growth within & beyond Malaysia’ alongside such esteemed company – Yin Yin L. (CTO & Founder, Safetruck), Gerardo Salandra (CEO & Founder, Respond.io) and Yasir Suleman✅ Menon (CEO, Salesflo) – with the session being brilliantly moderated by ZiYan Boo (Senior Customer Advisor, AWS Marketplace, Malaysia) and with the strong backing of his AWS colleagues, Eunice Chang (ASEAN Head of Startup Marketing) and Pang Pei Yi (Startup Account Manager), and Endeavor Malaysia’s Idzuan Shah Anuar (Senior Strategy Associate). To summarise our insightful discussion, we concluded that for startups to achieve exponential success, three key factors are essential: (1) Achieving product market fit (2) Maintaining a clear focus, and (3) Integrating sophisticated AI to enhance the value of data. This approach not only increases customer value but also further enhances the overall end-value. These factors eventually converge to create a compelling value proposition, a claim substantiated by real-world success. And am speaking from experience here! #CommerceAsia subsidiary #SiteGiant exemplifies this with its superior marketplace integration strategy. As one of Malaysia’s leading #eCommerce players, SiteGiant efficiently synchronises with multiple local and international marketplaces, significantly enhancing operational efficiencies and market reach for its valued clients. And kudos to SiteGiant CEO Stanley Lim and team for their visionary approach, which was way ahead of its time! All in all, a resounding success of a fantastic occasion which also cultivated greater unity among startup leaders in the tech industry. Well done again, Team Amazon Web Services and Endeavor Malaysia!

Pleased to share that #CommerceAsia recently closed a strategic partnership with #IGLCoatings , a front-runner in automotive detailing solutions. This development represents a powerful synergy of IGL Coatings’ industry-leading expertise and our advanced e-commerce ecosystem, setting the stage for both companies to scale new heights in the Southeast Asia digital marketplace.    By strategically leveraging the expansive potential of major platforms like Shopee and Lazada, we are committed to significantly enhance IGL Coatings’ online visibility and market presence with the goal of driving substantial growth across the diverse and rapidly expanding markets of Southeast Asia. Thank you to IGL Founder Keong Chun Chieh and team for your unwavering commitment partnership… here’s to a future filled with innovation and greater successes!   This partnership has its roots in our shared engagement in the #SoonicornCollective, an exclusive platform for Malaysia’s visionary CEOs to connect, innovate and lead. Thank you to Dr. Sivapalan Vivekarajah Sivapalan Vivekarajah for making it happen!   Our appreciation also to #DigitalNewsAsia for this report: https://lnkd.in/g78bQyS6  

The introduction of digital banks in Malaysia is set to transform our nation’s financial landscape. By harnessing advanced technology, #digitalbanks are set to make financial services more accessible, convenient and affordable, reaching even the most underserved segments of our population. Particularly for Malaysians in remote or rural areas, digital banks are breaking down the traditional barriers to financial services. The ability to manage banking operations from a smartphone or computer eliminates geographical constraints, democratising access to financial tools and creating healthier and more sustainable #financialinclusiion.   Congrats also to #GXBank and CEO Pei Si Lai Si for your highly successful recent event at Semua House, Kuala Lumpur.   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gzMaTZHa

#BFM producer and presenter, the brilliant Shazana Mokhtar, made a very poignant observation during the start of our recent interview session for the #BreakfastGrille: “Facebook was launched in 2004. But its marketplace potential was only realised 15 years later. And social commerce really gained traction when TikTok and TikTokShop came to the scene a couple years ago – and made it a trend (in this short timeframe)”.    Yes, #SocialCommerce really took off during the pandemic when people were selling fish and whatnot over #FacebookLive. The landscape further evolved with the introduction of #TikTokShop, which fully integrated commerce into social media, leveraging local influencers to drive sales, a strategy not yet mirrored by other players in the region and giving rise to the ‘push’ factor. This approach transformed #eCommerce from a search-and-find ‘consumer intent’ model employed traditionally by #Shopee and #Lazada to a more dynamic, influencer-driven marketplace, illustrating the evolving landscape of digital commerce.   Beyond its rapid growth and the innovative ways businesses and brands connect with consumers, it’s equally important to, once again, emphasise the significance of #EthicalBusiness and #FairPractices within this space.    As e-marketplaces and social commerce platforms redefine consumer engagement, ensuring ethical standards and fair competition is of utmost importance. Nurturing a level playing field that is equitable for all participants are crucial components as platforms begin to yield greater ‘power’ to redefine consumer interactions. This balance of innovation with integrity is essential for the sustainable growth of the e-commerce ecosystem.   Here’s the link to the podcast which also featured social media influencer Ceddy Ang. At the end of the day, this e-commerce evolution is about creating a transparent, equitable environment for both businesses and consumers. These are values to be championed to ensure sustainable growth within e-commerce and social commerce, the ‘new retail frontier’.    https://lnkd.in/gxfVZPqr

First the context of how we got here: The Covid-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order (MCO) accelerated a dramatic shift within Malaysia’s retail landscape towards #eCommerce. Then when Malaysians started turning to online platforms for everything from groceries to live fish sales on #FacebookLive, that was when #SocialCommerce took off in a big way. #ContentCreators and #influencersbegan to redefine the shopping experience, blending entertainment with commerce and transforming how products are discovered, shared and purchased. Enter #TikTokShop – a game-changer and what I view as being the biggest innovator in the e-commerce domain thus far. This is because consumer buying patterns on e-commerce marketplaces like #Shopee and #Lazada are typically driven by ‘intent’, meaning that shoppers usually visit these platforms with a clear idea of what they want to purchase. On the other hand, TikTok Shop operates on a ‘push’ factor, capitalising on the power of discovery and impulse. This dynamic is due to TikTok’s algorithm, which excels at presenting products through engaging content. As users scroll through their feeds, they are introduced to products via creative videos and influencer endorsements, thus creating demand on the spot. This approach leverages the spontaneity of consumer behaviour, turning casual browsing into shopping opportunities. This environment has indeed been a fascinating evolution in consumer behaviour and market dynamics. That said, and as I had mentioned in my previous LinkedIn posts, it also prompts a crucial dialogue on the dominance of foreign-owned e-marketplaces in Malaysia. This situation gives rise to the need to evaluate the impact on local businesses and to address data and retail sovereignty. While all this is happening, and for local businesses and SMEs, what then would be the solution to navigate the complexities of today’s fast evolving digital retail industry? In my opinion, the ‘silver bullet’ available for them is to have their own #omnichannel strategy, one that paves the path toward diversification of selling methods and platform choices. I have long championed the idea that merchants should expand their digital presence beyond the constraints of third-party platforms, and to have their own flagship websites. What’s more, it is about creating and controlling the narrative, building and nurturing direct relationships with customers and navigating the digital landscape with a clear, strategic vision. Anyway, my interview at #BFM within this link. Thank you Roshan Kanesan, CFP , Carol Wong and Team BFM: https://lnkd.in/gSfUATKB

#XambleLive stands at the forefront of transforming the Live and #SocialCommerce landscape, proving that with the right people, processes, tools and creative approaches, the possibilities are limitless! After all, we have made it our mission to empower brands and businesses expand their online presence through #LiveCommerce. Today, we are renowned for our comprehensive solutions – just as we collaborate closely with businesses aiming to conduct live sales on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.    This initiative forms part of our larger ecosystem under the Xamble Group, with services directed towards leveraging the growing trend of live commerce and empowering influencers and content creators with the #XambleCreators app, which in turn facilitates the posting of jobs and hiring for TikTok campaigns.   Recently, we reached another milestone with the ‘Road to Jutawan Ramadan’ event, a pioneering collaboration with #Biotropics Malaysia. This TikTok Creator Affiliate event showcased Xamble Live’s commitment to enhancing brand visibility and sales, while empowering influencers at the same time. A big Thank You to our General Manager, Aaliyah Soraya, and the entire team for demonstrating the indelible impact of strategic partnerships and cutting-edge technology. As I always say, Thank You for all that you do!   Read more here: https://lnkd.in/gvKPJHmi

In my previous post, and on national TV last week, I had emphasised on the importance of #FairPractices in #ecommerce, especially in the interactions between #emarketplace and #socialcommerce platforms with their merchant partners. I had touched on how this relationship is a symbiotic one, whereby both parties thrive on mutual success: Platforms providing an avenue for merchants to showcase their products and services, while merchants contribute vibrant, diverse offerings that attract and retain a wide audience. This dynamic creates and nurtures an ecosystem of innovation, collaboration and economic growth, benefiting not only the direct participants but the broader community as well.   Today in The Star, I broadened the discussion on this essential equilibrium, extending it to include digital sovereignty and innovation. A critical, yet often overlooked, aspect is the predominance of foreign-owned e-marketplace players in Malaysia. The data generated by these platforms, from consumer behaviour to transaction histories, resides not within the local jurisdiction but in the hands of international corporations.   To navigate these challenges, there needs to be a ‘balanced approach’ of clear guidelines and principles that protect users and ensure merchants’ digital livelihoods. Essential measures include robust data protection laws, equitable policies for fair merchant treatment and support for a healthy local digital ecosystem.   This path involves collaboration among industry associations, creator communities and government oversight, all working collectively to ensure a level playing field. Malaysia, then as a nation could then look forward to a fair and innovative digital ecosystem that would continue to thrive in the years and decades to come. It is also an opportunity to set a precedent for how a nation can embrace digital innovation while ensuring that its benefits are widely – and fairly – distributed.

Against the backdrop of the proposed ‘TikTok Ban Bill’ in the United States, I shared my thoughts and what it means within the Malaysian context with the #AstroAwani #ConsiderThis programme, hosted by the brilliant Melisa Melina Idris and aired on #Awani501 last night.   Firstly the background: Our research indicate that approx 200k Malaysian influencers – a majority from from the B40 income group – depend on #TikTokShop for a monthly income of RM1.5k to RM2k. That said, the relationship between #influencers and these platforms is symbiotic, where both parties thrive on mutual success – creators drive engaging content that attracts viewers, while platforms provide the medium for creativity to flourish.   It should never, ever be a case of merchants being at the ‘mercy’ of such platforms. Consider the implications should an #emarketplace or #socialcommerce platform choose to double its take from 4% to 8%... What would happen then to merchants whose end margin is at, say, 12%? Or what would happen if a platform were to demand that delivery times for products be shortened from 2 days to a single day? Such a move would place undue stress on merchants and small vendors, not to mention incurring higher costs with much thinner margins.   Hence, there is a fundamental need for #fairpractices and transparent communication between platforms and their merchants. It would mean much closer collaboration among all parties involved, especially industry associations and creator communities – and even with government oversight.   Don’t get me wrong, I am not calling for stringent regulation but for establishing clear guidelines essential for protecting users while ensuring merchants can maintain their digital livelihoods. Toward this end, the government could consider adopting guidelines for marketplaces to ensure that there is a fair playing field . This way, Malaysia as a nation could then look forward to a fair and innovative digital ecosystem that would continue to thrive in the years and decades to come. Btw, some 20% of all shopping activities are believed to be now conducted online.   Anyway, my segment is from minutes 14.45 – 24.00 within this YouTube channel… enjoy!

The #Xamble Group has always about being at the forefront of #digitalgrowth and #influencermarketing trends to benefit businesses and brands. We have now taken it a few notches higher with the launch of the Nuffnang Talent Squad, a revolutionary initiative designed to empower influencers by directly managing their social media campaigns, allowing them to focus on what they do best – creating content and engaging with their audience. This initiative not only eases the burden on influencers but also ensures brands receive top-notch, creative content that resonates.   Led by our dynamic duo, Ash Khalil and Emaad Eizlan, the Talent Squad offers comprehensive support in campaign management, creative execution and provides priority access to Nuffnang’s extensive campaign network. For influencers juggling multiple roles and looking to elevate their content creation game, the Talent Squad is here to support you every step of the way. And for brands seeking to connect with talented, influential voices, our curated pool of influencers ensures your campaigns hit the mark every time.   At #Nuffnang, our mission is to ‘Build Better People’ - through supporting our influencers in their growth and empowering brands create more impactful campaigns. The Talent Squad is a testament to this vision, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come.   Read more here:

Xamble's digital growth arm spearheaded by #Nuffnang has always been at the forefront of industry trends and consumer behaviour. Our culture is one of embracing innovation and new platforms for the benefit of clients, influencers and consumers.   Which brings me to #XiaoHongShu (XHS) – “China’s answer to Instagram” – a fast rising social media and e-commerce platform which presents new marketing avenues for brands and businesses. With over 2.6 million users in Malaysia encompassing primarily young and affluent Malaysian Chinese (“young money”), XHS offers a significant reach to a demographic known for its purchasing power and influence. Success, though, is about understanding the platform’s nuances and users’ evolving demands.   Nuffnang’s effort in this space is spearheaded by Huiying Koh who have worked with, amongst others, Grace Low, a pioneer in #XHS marketing. We appreciate that XHS is not your typical social media platform but demands a different approach – one that prioritises authenticity and creativity over hard-sell tactics. This aligns perfectly with our philosophy at Nuffnang, where we believe in creating content that resonates, emotionally connect and adds value to users’ lives. Furthermore, we recognise the challenges that come with the platform’s constantly changing trends and restrictions.    However, and pardon me for quoting Sun Tzu again: “Opportunities multiply as they are seized.” In other words, challenges also present opportunities for creativity and agility in marketing – areas where Nuffnang excels. That said, we are also aware of the pressures and learning curves facing influencers on XHS. As such, we advocate for empathy and collaboration between brands and influencers, ensuring a smooth transition and success for both parties on this emerging platform.   Nuffnang’s journey with XHS is just one example of how we are helping clients and #influencers navigate and succeed in the ever-changing Digital Economy. Stay tuned for more updates, and if you are looking to start your XHS adventure, do reach out to us and let’s all capitalise on this exciting new platform together! My heartfelt thanks to #MarketingMagazineAsia for this article: