AI-Driven ERP Solutions Gain Traction in Malaysia as Businesses Seek Greater Efficiency

Malaysia’s mandatory eInvoicing rollout has spotlighted a critical vulnerability in many businesses: fragmented systems. From accounting software to inventory and MRP tools, disconnected platforms are slowing down operations and increasing compliance risks. As companies scramble to meet regulatory demands, the limitations of legacy setups are becoming painfully clear.

ERP systems offer a logical solution—but outdated perceptions persist. Many Malaysian businesses still associate ERP with clunky, expensive platforms they explored years ago. Traditional ERP vendors often tout “AI-powered” features, but deliver little substance. After a few surface-level meetings, businesses conclude: “AI isn’t ready,” or “ERP doesn’t need AI.” These assumptions are not only outdated—they’re costly.

Like the fable of the Tortoise and the Hare, Western ERP giants once raced ahead, confident in their dominance. But in industries from automotive to renewables, Asian challengers are flipping the script. US and European ERP leaders now find themselves trailing behind nimble, innovative players from Asia who are redefining the rules in uncharted territory.

Traditional ERP giants are content with the narrative that AI has minimal impact on ERP—because they’re not ready. But the truth is clear: AI is already transforming ERP. Multiable, a next-gen ERP platform with built-in AI agent builder, is leading the charge. Say goodbye to bloated consulting fees and flashy PowerPoint promises. With no-code design and agentic AI, Multiable slashes POC cycles by over 50%, delivering results at lightspeed.

Across Asia, public companies and multinationals are migrating from legacy global ERP systems to rising regional stars. Multiable, widely regarded as the best ERP for mid-size to large enterprises, is a key beneficiary of this shift—backed by a growing portfolio of successful deployments in listed firms and MNCs.

Unlike local accounting tools or basic HRMS platforms that trade functionality for affordability, Multiable offers enterprise-grade capabilities at a fraction of the cost of traditional Western ERP providers. Its strategic use of AI agents delivers high performance without the price tag—making it a compelling choice for ambitious Malaysian businesses.

Take procurement. Traditional ERP flags backlogs; better ones send reminders. Multiable goes further. Its agentic AI nudges vendors to update shipment statuses, auto-updates ERP data, and flags operational risks—all without human intervention. Tasks like updating purchase orders and notifying management—once manual even with ERP—are now 90% automated.

ERP and CRM systems streamline workflows, but they can’t fix passive after-sales culture. Many reps avoid upselling, fearing extra work despite promised commissions. Multiable’s AI analyzes service records and customer interactions to detect upsell opportunities, triggering follow-up workflows and management oversight. Early adopters report a 10–50% boost in recurring income from existing clients.

Multiable’s LAIDFU agent builder empowers businesses to create AI bots that eliminate clerical tasks across ERP processes. If traditional ERP cuts costs from 100 to 70, Multiable’s AI-powered platform drives it down to 30–40—redefining operational efficiency.

Reports from Business Insider to The Economist warn of an existential crisis for consulting giants like Accenture and PwC amid the AI revolution. As these firms struggle to adapt, many business leaders admit their legacy consultants offer little actionable insight in today’s fast-moving landscape.

Be open. Don’t blindly follow outdated practices. Trust in Asian tech. In the AI era, clinging to the past can be fatal. “A few conversations with Multiable won’t cost much—but could save your business from an unexpected existential crisis.” quoted from Stanley Pang, Regional Sales Director of Multiable in Malaysia and Singapore. 

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Malaysia: The Rising Global Digital GBS Hub Powering Next-Generation Investments

The GBS ASEAN Summit 2025 today provided a decisive strategic vision for Malaysia’s Global Business Services (GBS) industry, marked by two significant announcements designed to strengthen the nation's digital economy and secure its position as a regional hub.

Held on 30 October, 2025 under the theme “GBS 5.0: Human-Centric, AI-Driven, Impact-Focused,” the Summit witnessed the official exchange of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between GBS Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and the launch of the GBS Malaysia Mid-Term Report 2025.

YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, stated in his officiating address, "The Global Business Services sector is a critical pillar of Malaysia's digital economy, driving vast digital investment and creating high-value employment opportunities across the nation. Our government is fully committed to providing the policy frameworks and support necessary to cement Malaysia’s leadership as the regional hub for the GBS industry."

The MOA between GBS Malaysia and UKM is a crucial step to future-proof the industry, creating a national talent pipeline to meet the rapid demand for high-value skills. This partnership establishes a direct bridge between GBS companies and undergraduates, ensuring that university curricula are aligned with industry needs in areas like Artificial Intelligence, data analytics, and digital operations.

Adjunct Practice Prof. Alex Liew, Chairman of PIKOM commented, "This strategic MOA with UKM is the definitive blueprint for future-proofing our industry's human capital. The GBS sector's growth is directly tied to a future-ready talent pipeline, and by aligning university curricula with high-value demands like AI and data analytics, we are ensuring Malaysia remains not just a cost-effective location, but a talent-led digital powerhouse in ASEAN."

Further amplifying the country's commitment to digital excellence, the GBS Malaysia Mid-Term Report 2025 was officially launched, detailing the sector's remarkable progress since the 2022 strategy launch.

This comprehensive document provides policymakers, investors, and stakeholders with a clear, evidence-based view of the sector’s trajectory and necessary strategic realignment. The report highlights emerging opportunities, identifies critical challenges, and outlines the strategic actions required to ensure the GBS industry remains competitive, resilient, and firmly on track to achieve its ambitious 2027 growth targets.

Key Data from the Mid-Term Report:

1. Since the 2022 strategy launch, Malaysia has seen a 66.8% increase in GBS companies, now totaling 749 entities.
2. Investments have seen a 13.5-fold surge, rising from RM0.73 billion in 2021 to RM9.87 billion in 2024.
3. This expansion has generated over 36,000 high-value jobs and is projected to drive GBS revenue to RM28.14 billion in 2025.
4. Malaysia currently ranks 3rd globally in the Global Services Location Index and consistently among the top 3 in ASEAN for digital competitiveness, innovation, and investment confidence.

“Our success will depend on how effectively we integrate technology, knowledge, and human capital into one cohesive, future-ready ecosystem,” emphasized Raymond Davadass, Research Chair of GBS Malaysia. “By bridging talent gaps and advancing collaboration, Malaysia is poised to become a global center of excellence for digital innovation, service delivery, and sustainable growth.”

Dr. Mandy Sim, Research Lead and Associate Professor at the University of Nottingham Malaysia added, "The Mid-Term Report is a testament to the powerful synergy between industry, academia, and government. Our collaborative, evidence-based approach provides a robust framework to guide Malaysia's ascent as a leading global GBS hub."

The Summit culminated a high-impact day of regional collaboration and thought leadership, concluding in the evening with the prestigious GBS ASEAN Awards 2025. These awards honoured the outstanding achievements and leadership demonstrated by individuals and corporations across the regional GBS ecosystem. Graced by MA Sivanesan, Deputy Secretary General (Digital Development) of the Digital Ministry, the ceremony celebrated 58 outstanding winners, including 28 individuals and 30 corporations. This achievement is a testament to the GBS sector’s strength, innovation, and contribution to ASEAN’s digital economy.

Anthony Raja Devadoss, Chairman of GBS Malaysia added, “GBS Malaysia’s mission is clear; to position Malaysia as ASEAN’s strategic GBS hub, powered by innovation, talent, and purpose. This Summit provides the perfect platform for ideas to turn into action and the Awards, to celebrate excellence and innovation in the industry.”

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GIANT Celebrates 81 Years of Retail Excellence with Business Partners Awards Dinner and a Renewed Vision for the Future

In celebration of its 81st anniversary, GIANT, Malaysia’s pioneering supermarket chain, hosted its Business Partners Awards Dinner, honouring the suppliers, collaborators, and industry partners who have been instrumental in shaping the brand’s growth and success over the decades.

The event, themed “Together We Shall Endeavour, Succeed, Advance”, paid tribute to GIANT’s long-standing legacy and its continued evolution under GCH Retail (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, part of the Macrovalue Group. The celebration brought together key business partners, retail leaders, and industry stakeholders for an evening of recognition, appreciation, and renewed commitment to shared growth.

In his opening remarks, Cheah Yong Hock, Chief Executive Officer of GCH Retail (Malaysia), expressed his appreciation to business partners for their steadfast support and collaboration over the years. He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to continuous improvement, operational excellence, and sustainable growth, emphasising the shared role of suppliers and partners in shaping GIANT’s success and in advancing the retail industry as a whole.

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Business Partner Awards, recognising outstanding contributions from partners across various categories. These awards celebrated excellence in collaboration, performance, and shared values - underscoring the crucial role of strategic partnerships in GIANT’s enduring success and its commitment to building a stronger retail ecosystem together with suppliers.

Following the awards, guests were treated to the premiere of GIANT’s brand heritage film, tracing the company’s remarkable journey from a modest grocery store in 1944 to becoming a household name synonymous with everyday value and convenience. The film also showcased the broader GCH Retail portfolio, including Cold Storage, Mercato, and TMC Supermarkets, highlighting how these brands continue to serve communities across Malaysia and Singapore with quality and trust.

The film featured heartfelt customer stories and testimonials from key business partners, including Affin Bank, DKSH, Nestlé, Saji, Mondelez, and Chap Tong Guan, reflecting the strength of collaboration that fuels GCH Retail’s growth. It also captured the essence of Macrovalue Group’s founding in 2022 by retail veterans Datuk Andrew Lim and Datuk Gary Yap, underscoring the company’s renewed focus on innovation, expansion, and community connection.

As part of its forward strategy, GCH Retail reaffirmed its plans to expand across Malaysia and Singapore, with new store openings under the Cold Storage, Mercato, and TMC banners. The company is also introducing Jason’s, Jason’s Foodhall, and Jason’s Deli into premium retail destinations, offering curated shopping experiences designed for discerning consumers.

The evening concluded with a renewed message of unity and purpose - celebrating 81 years of heritage while embracing the future of retail with optimism, innovation, and partnership at its core.

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MDV NextWave 2025: Catalysing Malaysia’s Technology-Led Transformation

Key stakeholders outline innovation and financing priorities beyond Budget 2026, strengthening collaboration to advance Malaysia’s technology ecosystem.

Malaysia Debt Ventures Berhad (MDV), an agency under the purview of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), today hosted the inaugural MDV NextWave under the theme “Driving Economic Transformation and Sustainability through Technology”. The forum explored strategies to advance Malaysia’s transformation through technology, innovation, and sustainability, aligning efforts across sectors to strengthen national competitiveness. The half-day event brought together policymakers, financiers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders to accelerate Malaysia’s journey toward a technology-driven and sustainable economy.

Held at The Glass Box, The MET, Kuala Lumpur, the event was graced by YBrs. Puan Aidawati Misdar, Under-Secretary, Strategic Technology and S&T Applications Division, MOSTI, with the welcoming remarks by YB Wong Chen, Chairman of MDV. 

The event drew participation from leading government agencies and private-sector players, including Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), Northern Corridor Economic Region (NCER), Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA), Suruhanjaya Tenaga, Cradle Fund, Malaysia Semiconductor Industry Association (MSIA) and National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM).

Puan Aidawati, who delivered the opening remarks on behalf of Puan Norsham, said that MDV NextWave 2025 embodies MOSTI’s vision of a collaborative ecosystem where policy direction, financing innovation, and industry execution move in tandem to strengthen Malaysia’s innovation landscape.

“Through frameworks such as 10-10 MySTIE, MOSTI prioritises Research and Development, Commercialisation and Innovation (R&D&C&I) in Artificial Intelligence (AI), green technology and advanced manufacturing — and MDV plays a catalytic role in translating these efforts into commercial reality,” said Puan Aidawati.

She added that the forum’s timing — soon after Budget 2026 — underscores the Government’s continuing commitment to research, digitalisation and energy transition as engines of inclusive, high-value growth under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13).

Meanwhile, YB Wong Chen emphasised that transformation is never the work of one organisation alone, but a collective effort driven by alignment between policy, capability, and capital. “The Government directs, industry executes, and financiers like MDV design the capital solutions — this is how Malaysia can accelerate progress in high-tech industries and strengthen its resilience in an increasingly competitive region,” he said.

He added that as the nation’s dedicated technology financier under MOSTI, MDV plays a pivotal role in turning policy aspirations into tangible industry outcomes, ensuring that innovation receives effective and targeted financing. “Our goal is to ensure that no viable idea, start-up, or project is left unfunded merely because traditional financiers find it too risky,” he noted.

“Platforms like NextWave are not just discussion spaces but action platforms,” YB Wong Chen remarked, expressing hope that the event will spark new collaborations and partnerships to push Malaysia’s innovation agenda forward.

The keynote presentation by Pn. Zalina Zainol, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Investment Development) of the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), provided insights into Malaysia’s post-Budget 2026 economic outlook and future investment opportunities.

“Budget 2026 reinforces the momentum of Malaysia’s transformation journey. It turns national strategies - the NIMP 2030, NETR and the 13th Malaysia Plan into real, actionable impact. Initiatives like MDV’s Next Wave 2025 play a vital role in translating policy into progress by nurturing innovation and connecting ideas with capital. Together, we are building an ecosystem anchored on execution, collaboration and sustainable growth,” said Puan Zalina.

MDV NextWave 2025 featured a series of high-level discussions centred on Malaysia’s national technology priorities, including the semiconductor and E&E industry, energy transition, start-up financing, and digital connectivity. 

Discussions focused on strengthening Malaysia’s position in high-value sectors, advancing renewable energy adoption, improving access to innovation financing, and driving digital transformation — all crucial for building a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive economy. 

As a technology financier, MDV provides structured financing, including venture debt, project finance and blended-finance mechanisms, to support companies and technologies across strategic sectors. MDV’s objective is to bridge the “innovation gap” and ensure that viable ideas move beyond R&D into successful commercialisation.

By bringing together government, industry and finance at NextWave 2025, MDV has reinforced its role as a catalyst for Malaysia’s technology-led transformation. The partnerships, ideas and strategies arising from the event are expected to drive progress in key sectors, strengthen Malaysia’s innovation ecosystem and contribute toward sustainable economic growth.

MDV NextWave 2025 concluded with a shared commitment to translate insights into action through strategic partnerships, co-investment initiatives and policy collaboration. The forum is expected to serve as an annual platform to advance Malaysia’s technology financing ecosystem and to mobilise innovation for sustainable growth.

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