In Malaysia, Ecothon 2023 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 an intensive training course in which international experts shared their extensive knowledge, spanning from the intricacies of understanding SDGs to mastering the fundamentals of business model development, navigating regulatory compliance, establishing investor relations, and the art of effective public speaking. This comprehensive curriculum encompassed a wide spectrum of essential facets for effectively promoting sustainable and progressive business concepts. Additionally, individual coaching and mentoring sessions were offered by not only international but also national experts in the field of sustainable economics, to elevate the participants’ knowledge and skills that will be helpful not only for the Demo Day, but, more importantly, throughout the later stages of their business development.
Ecothon 2023 in Malaysia concluded successfully as 13 finalists presented their business strategies and products to a panel of international and local experts on the Demo Day on 5th September. ADA Biotech won first prize with the business model of manufacturing biodegradable products from agricultural waste. Second prize belonged to Safari Techs Holdings Sdn Bhd who was a pioneer in the composite LPG cylinder industry in Malaysia. The third prize went to Charcoal Coconut Washer Machine who produced the highly productive charcoal coconut machine that simplified charcoal manufacturing process. ADA Biotech, Safari Techs Holdings Sdn Bhd, and Charcoal Coconut Washer Machine will join Ecothon winners from Lao PDR, the Philippines and Indonesia to pitch their sustainable business ideas at the Global Startup Festival COMEUP 2023, which is scheduled from 8th to 10th November in Seoul.