Wendy Ang, CEO, TASConnect Malaysia
Previously known as SOLV that was established in Oct 2022, the company has recently become a member of the TASConnect group of companies. We now offer an expanded suite of solutions aimed at enhancing and scaling the entire value chain for MNCs globally as well as local corporates in Malaysia, on top of dealer financing solutions for SMEs that we have been offering as SOLV.
What are some of your organisation’s proudest moments/milestones in Malaysia?
Our organisation is proud of several key milestones in Malaysia, where we have focused on empowering small businesses by simplifying their growth journey. One of our proudest achievements is building a platform that enables SMEs to access the financial ecosystem more effectively, bridging the gap between businesses and the resources they need to thrive. We have also worked hard to bring greater awareness and education to the business community, helping them understand the financial tools available to support their growth. Aligned with Malaysia’s national agenda for Financial Inclusion, we take pride in supporting SMEs, which make up over 90% of the country’s business establishments and play a significant role in contributing to the nation’s GDP and employment. Our efforts reflect our commitment to fostering economic growth and inclusivity in Malaysia.
Based on your overall experience of doing business in Malaysia, name the advantages and challenges of doing business in Malaysia.
Malaysia offers several advantages for businesses, particularly due to its strategic location at the heart of Southeast Asia, providing a central hub for logistics and access to an abundance of natural resources. The country also benefits from favourable government policies and initiatives that actively support business growth, making it an attractive destination for companies looking to expand in the region. By focusing on these areas, Malaysia can further improve the quality of life for its citizens and create more inclusive income opportunities, fostering sustainable and equitable growth for all.
Based on your experience in operating in Malaysia, what are the 3 most important criteria for achieving business success in Malaysia?
Based on our experience operating in Malaysia, three key criteria are essential for achieving business success. First, embracing technology is critical to building a vibrant digital nation, enabling businesses to stay competitive and future-proof their operations in an increasingly tech-driven world. Second, the ability to bring fragmented supply chains closer together is vital for operational efficiency and resilience, especially in a rapidly evolving market. Finally, being client-centric is paramount; understanding the pain points of stakeholders and delivering solutions that address those challenges builds trust and drives long-term success. Additionally, focusing on a high-value economy and integrating ESG-related agendas ensures businesses contribute meaningfully to sustainable growth.
How has your business evolved during the pandemic, especially in terms of optimisation of human and technology resources?
Although our business was not established during the pandemic, we have certainly aligned with the evolving landscape that emerged from it. The pandemic accelerated the digital transformation for many businesses, not only as a cost-cutting measure but also as a means of managing risk and ensuring diversification. In response, we provide an end-to-end digital platform that enables businesses to operate more efficiently and securely in this new reality. Additionally, we’ve observed a shift in client demographics, with a growing younger generation entering the market. This generation brings a different mindset and new expectations for how things should get done, and we’ve adapted our solutions to meet these evolving needs, ensuring seamless and agile experiences for all our clients.
How do you see your business growth and prospects in Malaysia now?
I am very optimistic about our business growth and prospects in Malaysia. With the country assuming the ASEAN Chairmanship, we see significant opportunities emerging, as Malaysia continues to foster entrepreneurship and promote equitable participation, particularly for SMEs. The government’s strong support for these initiatives is key to driving inclusive economic growth. Additionally, Malaysia may become a preferred location for foreign direct investment (FDI), with the adoption of strategies like China +1 and China +2. These trends position Malaysia as an attractive hub for businesses seeking to diversify their operations, further strengthening our growth outlook in the region.
What are the top 3 reasons for your organisation joining the BMCC?
Our decision to join the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC) was driven by three key reasons. First, we aim to build a strong network and foster partnerships for collaboration with other industry players, which is essential for mutual growth and innovation. Second, BMCC offers excellent opportunities for brand profiling and participation in events that allow us to share and learn best practices, helping to enhance our business presence and thought leadership. Lastly, BMCC provides access to government dialogues and forums, enabling us to exchange industry insights and contribute to important policy discussions that shape the business environment.
What is the top value you see for yourself or your organisation in being a member of the BMCC?
The top value we see in being a member of the BMCC is the opportunity to collaborate with the chamber to organise events and discussion panels for industry leaders, where we can showcase our solutions and contribute to meaningful industry conversations. Additionally, BMCC membership provides us with greater exposure to a wide range of industry sectors within Malaysia, enabling us to expand our reach, build relationships, and explore new opportunities for growth across diverse sectors.