Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet), the national payments network operator, has launched the country’s first fintech-focused community and accelerator, the PayNet Fintech Hub.
The hub aims to support the development of fintech startups in Malaysia through access to capital, industry connections, and essential support services.
Developed in collaboration with more than 45 strategic partners, the hub offers selected fintechs access to funding opportunities, strategic business matching with banks and technology firms, and over 450 hours of hands-on mentorship from experienced founders and domain experts.
It also provides access to a pool of fintech investors who can mentor, evaluate, and invest in participating startups.
Participants will receive more than RM1 million in value-added credits from PayNet, up to RM3 million in cloud credits from major service providers, and over RM600,000 worth of advisory services covering legal, finance, HR, and market research.
The programme also provides access to a fully sponsored co-working space.
The hub comprises two components: a broader “Community” group and a more selective “Catalyst” track.
The programme is highly selective, with benefits designed to help fintechs preserve cash burn, refine their business models, sharpen go-to-market strategies, raise capital, and work towards a successful exit.
Startups in the Community will receive mentorship, networking, and funding support, while those selected for the Catalyst programme will join a 10-week accelerator run in partnership with Imperial College London.
The track includes coaching by Imperial faculty, a demo day with potential investors and partners, and a week-long visit to London. The programme is fully funded by PayNet.
Participants in the Catalyst track will also benefit from access to cloud services through Amazon Web Services (AWS), supported by the AWS Asia Pacific (Malaysia) Region and entry into an upcoming fintech innovation sandbox.
Farhan Ahmad, Group Chief Executive Officer of PayNet said,
“The PayNet Fintech Hub truly is a unique and transformative initiative dedicated to scaling startups beyond the foundational stage. It addresses the key issues faced by fintechs in Malaysia and we expect it to significantly accelerate fintech growth in the country.
The hub is our response to a global call for smarter collaboration and accelerated innovation, uniting the fragmented fintech ecosystem and creating real, scalable outcomes, and we are very excited about its possibilities.”
