The Selangor Information Technology and Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) has officially launched the 2025 edition of its Selangor Twin Accelerator Programme, a dual-track initiative aimed at scaling Malaysia’s most promising startups and SMEs across deep tech and consumer-facing industries.

The launch ceremony was held at the Asia School of Business, Kuala Lumpur, and officiated by Selangor State Executive Councillor for Investment, Trade and Mobility, YB Ng Sze Han, and Minister of Digital, YB Gobind Singh Deo.

This year’s twin-track accelerator comprises the Selangor Deep Tech Xccelerator Programme (Deep-X) and the Selangor Retail Tech Xccelerator Programme (Retail-X), designed to future-proof emerging ventures and help them scale across local and global markets.

Backed by strategic partners including AFFIN, TikTok Shop, AEON, Shopline, Cradle, Xendit, DHL, and BytePlus, the Twin Accelerator reflects a strong public- private commitment to nurturing high-growth ventures aligned with Selangor’s digital economy ambitions.

“With Deep-X and Retail-X, we are not only accelerating companies but building a fully integrated ecosystem that supports founders at every stage,” said Yong Kai Ping, CEO of Sidec. “This programme is designed to produce global-ready entrepreneurs with the right tools, networks, and mindset.”

Deep-X: Scaling Disruptive Tech from Malaysia to the World

Deep-X targets AI-driven deep tech startups across verticals including agritech, biotech, healthtech, robotics, semiconductors, sustainability, and net-zero innovation. This 12-week accelerator offers mentorship, market access, investor engagement, and over RM300,000 in programme value.

Top-performing startups will be selected for an exclusive international mission to Plug & Play in Silicon Valley, with the opportunity to pitch to global investors, engage with leading accelerators, and explore commercial partnerships.

Applications for Deep-X are open until 20 July 2025. Participants will also pitch and exhibit at the Selangor Smart City & Digital Economy Convention (SDEC) 2025.

Retail-X: Future-Proofing Malaysia’s Consumer-Facing SMEs

Running in parallel, Retail-X supports high-potential B2C SMEs across fashion, lifestyle, food & beverage, health, beauty, wellness, and home living sectors. The programme focuses on smart inventory, AI-powered marketing, and omnichannel growth strategies.

Finalists will pitch to investors during the Retail-X Final Demo Day, with winners to receive cash and perks worth RM50,000, the brand exposure, and a fully sponsored innovation mission to ByteDance, where they will gain behind-the- scenes access to TikTok Shop’s commerce technologies.

Applications for Retail-X close on 13 July 2025. A Fully Integrated Ecosystem for Innovation

The Twin Accelerator Programme is supported by over 15 financial institutions, including venture capital firms, equity crowdfunding platforms, and alternative finance providers. This enables startups and SMEs to access diverse funding options, capital- readiness support, and financial advisory throughout their journey.

To accelerate digital adoption, all participants will also receive cloud credits and digital infrastructure support from global tech partners, enabling them to prototype, scale, and innovate faster.

In collaboration with universities and academic institutions, the programme provides access to research expertise, technical validation, and talent development initiatives. Participants will further benefit from Sidec’s vast network of ecosystem partners offering strategic collaborations, investor access, and regional market linkages.

“These twin accelerators represent Sidec’s broader commitment to building globally competitive businesses from Malaysia,” added Yong. “We’re not just accelerating ventures, we’re accelerating ecosystems.”

A Decade of Impact, A Roadmap for the Future

The launch of the Twin Accelerator coincides with Sidec’s 10th anniversary. Since its inception, Sidec has supported over 320 startups, facilitated RM203 million in

collective fundraising, and provided regional exposure to founders through its international missions.

Looking ahead, the Twin Accelerator is a cornerstone of Sidec’s roadmap to nurture 500 startups by 2030, in line with Selangor and Malaysia’s broader digital economy transformation agenda.