Promoting SCP and Circular Transition in ASEAN countries
ECOTHON in Malaysia 2024

In Malaysia, Ecothon 2024 was co-hosted by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MECD) of Malaysia and implemented by Centre for Entrepreneur Development and Research (CEDAR). The programme commenced with a 3-day intensive training course led by international experts, covering critical topics such as sustainable entrepreneurship, business model development, business impact, management strategies, and impact investment. This well-rounded curriculum addressed key areas essential for fostering sustainable and innovative business ideas. Additionally, national experts provided one-on-one coaching and mentoring sessions to assist teams in refining their business plans, pitching decks, and overall strategies - not just for the Demo Day but also for their long-term business growth.

Ecothon 2024 in Malaysia culminated with 12 finalists presenting their business strategies and products to a panel of international and local experts on the Demo Day on September 4, 2024. QuinTerra PLT won first prize with the business model of collecting food waste from the Food & Beverage industry, converting it into fish feed and fertiliser, and then supplying these industries with high-quality, sustainably produced fish and vegetables. The second prize belonged to Entomal Biotech who converts food waste into high-protein insect feed and organic fertilisers. The third prize went to BuzzLoop who develops a mobile application for encouraging eco-friendly habits. QuinTerra PLT, Entomal Biotech, and BuzzLoop will join Ecothon winners from Lao PDR in HSF’s Think Global Sustainability Network delegation at the ASEAN Circular Economy Forum in Bangkok in October 2024. They will also compete in the second screening round of the KOREA-ASEAN Business Model Competition in the same month.

HSF’s support for Ecothon is part of the Think Global Sustainability Network under HSF’s Global Project on Mitigation and Adaptation to Climate Change (GMACC).