SFA Initiative ‘Project Tapir’ Connects Singaporean Fintechs with Malaysian VCs

SFA Initiative ‘Project Tapir’ Connects Singaporean Fintechs with Malaysian VCs

by February 26, 2024

The Singapore Fintech Association (SFA) has initiated Project Tapir, a collaborative effort with Malaysian venture capital firms Artem Ventures and OSK Ventures International Berhad (OSKVI).  The partnership seeks to support Singaporean fintech companies in their expansion into Malaysia.

The aim is to facilitate cross-border collaboration and showcase Singaporean firms in areas such as payments, regulatory technology, insurance technology, artificial intelligence, and more, where the partnering Malaysian VC firms specialise.

1337 Ventures, another Malaysian VC firm focusing on early-stage tech startups, is also participating as a supporting partner. The initiative is designed to create a supportive ecosystem for Singapore fintechs, enhancing their chances of successfully entering the Malaysian market.

As part of Project Tapir, the SFA will be responsible for selecting Singaporean fintech companies for a business mission to Malaysia in May 2024, where they will receive support from Artem Ventures and OSKVI in their market expansion efforts. This includes access to local industry insights and advice, aimed at promoting economic and talent development in both countries.

This initiative highlights the mutual interests of Singapore and Malaysia in strengthening their fintech sectors and encouraging foreign investment.

Singaporean fintechs interested in applying with Artem Ventures can click here. For OSK Ventures International, applications are available here.

Shadab Taiyabi

Shadab Taiyabi

Shadab Taiyabi, President of SFA said,

“SFA is committed to supporting the regional expansion of Singapore fintechs to Malaysia through this partnership with Artem Ventures and OSKVI. Finding the right growth partners is key for Singapore fintechs that want to grow regionally.

 

Artem Ventures and OSKVI both have deep expertise in the Malaysian fintech space and we hope this latest initiative will support our members and positively impact both the economic and talent markets in both countries.”

Low Zhen Hui

Low Zhen Hui

Low Zhen Hui, Managing Partner of Artem Ventures said,

“Artem Ventures is proud to champion the integration of Singapore fintechs into a thriving Malaysian tech ecosystem through this partnership.

 

Through strategic collaborations and support, we aim to foster economic growth, cutting-edge innovations, and the creation of valuable job opportunities in the Malaysian market. Together, we are building bridges between nations and shaping the future of the regional fintech ecosystem.”