As Malaysia sets its sights on chairing ASEAN in 2025, the country’s digital economy is rapidly coming into sharper focus. At the heart of this shift is Sea Limited, a Southeast Asian tech powerhouse driving impact across e-commerce, digital entertainment, and financial services. Leading its Malaysian charge is Terence
Terence Siau, Country Head, Sea Limited Malaysia
As Southeast Asia’s digital economy continues its explosive growth, Malaysia stands at the cusp of a transformative chapter—poised to lead the region into a new era of digital integration. Driving this change is a new breed of innovation-led companies who not only provide platforms for business but build ecosystems that democratize opportunity and access. One such entity is Sea Limited, the tech juggernaut behind Shopee, Garena, and SeaMoney.
At the helm of Sea Limited’s Malaysian chapter is Terence Siau, a key figure in the Founder’s Office and the current Country Head. In an exclusive interview with The Exchange Asia, Siau breaks down how Sea Limited is reshaping Malaysia’s MSME landscape, its role in preparing the country for ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, and the deep-rooted principles driving inclusion, innovation, and regional growth.
A Mission Rooted in Inclusion
Established as a consumer internet company with deep regional roots, Sea Limited’s vision goes far beyond digital transactions. It builds ecosystems, nurtures talent, and connects local businesses to regional markets.
“We’re not just providing access—we’re creating a full-stack, inclusive digital ecosystem that allows micro and small businesses to thrive, scale, and connect with markets they never imagined possible,” shares Terence.
This mission is made visible through Shopee, one of Southeast Asia’s largest e-commerce platforms, which now powers the online presence of over 2 million Malaysian sellers. But this number only scratches the surface. What truly differentiates Shopee is the suite of integrated, low-barrier tools it offers to MSMEs—from livestreaming and AI-driven product discovery to payment integration and seller education.
Shopee University: An Engine for MSME Digital Upliftment
One of Sea Limited’s flagship initiatives in Malaysia is Shopee University, a training and empowerment programme that has quietly become one of the most impactful digital education platforms for local entrepreneurs.
Since its inception (pre-pandemic), Shopee University has trained over 200,000 micro-businesses in Malaysia. Its curriculum spans across multiple tiers—from basic onboarding (“how to set up a shop online”) to advanced topics like digital marketing, data analytics, and cross-border commerce.
“Everyone can participate. Shopee University is open to all and completely free. It’s our way of ensuring no business is left behind,” says Terence.
The impact of this initiative is tangible:
- Bella Hazaha, a Shopee Live seller, scaled her modest sleepwear business to selling over 1,000 units a day, using digital storytelling and live commerce.
- Batik Cantik, a rural Terengganu-based brand, scaled from one order a day to over 100 daily, gaining nationwide visibility through Shopee’s seller tools.
The Digital Dividend: Enabling Revenue Growth and Reach
How much can MSMEs grow once they plug into the Shopee ecosystem?
While figures vary by industry and product category, Terence cites standout examples like Khairul Aming, a content creator turned entrepreneur who built the wildly popular Sambal Nyet brand on Shopee.
- In April 2023, a Shopee Live session sold 13,000 bottles of Sambal Nyet in just 2 minutes, generating over RM628,000 in gross sales.
Such exponential growth is enabled by Sea Limited’s commitment to end-to-end digital enablement—from infrastructure to last-mile delivery. Shopee offers not just a marketplace but also:
- AI-powered recommendations
- Live video selling tools
- Payment and financing solutions
- Real-time analytics and logistics support
“Shopee doesn’t just onboard businesses—it equips them with the tools to scale fast, manage risk, and expand regionally,” Terence affirms.
Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship: A Nation Ready to Lead
In 2025, Malaysia will assume the ASEAN chairmanship—an opportunity to shape the regional digital economy agenda.
According to Terence, the country is well-positioned to lead, thanks to three key indicators:
- Internet Penetration – Over 96% as of 2024, thanks to national broadband investments.
- E-Wallet Adoption – Over 20 million Malaysians use e-wallets regularly.
- GDP Contribution – The digital economy accounts for 22.6% of Malaysia’s GDP, highlighting its structural significance.
With initiatives such as MyDIGITAL, the National AI Roadmap, and proactive regulatory bodies like MDEC and the National AI Office, Malaysia is already setting the pace.
“We have the infrastructure, we have the policy support, and we have the talent. What’s needed now is deeper collaboration and inclusivity,” says Terence.
Addressing Challenges: Infrastructure, Talent, and Trust
Despite the optimism, Terence acknowledges three critical challenges:
- Economic Inclusion – Ensuring MSMEs across urban-rural lines can participate.
- Financial Inclusion – Serving the unbanked and underbanked segments.
- Cybersecurity – Building trust in digital ecosystems.
To address these, Sea Limited is not only enhancing platform security through AI-driven fraud detection but is also participating in the Financial Education Network under Bank Negara Malaysia, offering nationwide workshops and roadshows to raise financial literacy.
Strategic Partnerships with Government and Industry
Collaboration is a recurring theme in Sea’s approach. Sea Limited works hand-in-hand with Malaysian ministries, agencies, and regulators to deliver targeted development programmes.
Initiatives like #ShopeeSapotLokal, created in partnership with government agencies, have played a key role in highlighting and promoting local sellers and products.
“For Malaysia to lead ASEAN’s digital shift, both public and private sectors must play their part. Government policy can pave the way, but industry players must build the infrastructure for real participation,” he explains.
The Future: AI, Fintech, and Regional Expansion
Looking ahead, Terence highlights three exciting trends Sea Limited is deeply invested in:
- AI & Automation – Improving customer experience, personalization, and productivity through AI.
- Social Commerce & Livestreaming – Moving from traditional e-commerce to interactive, video-driven sales.
- Cross-border Digital Trade – Enabling sellers in Malaysia to access buyers across ASEAN through seamless integration.
Digital financial services are also central to Sea’s roadmap. From microloans and BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later) solutions to integrated cross-border payment systems, fintech remains a strategic pillar.
“Fintech players and digital banks are key pillars of Southeast Asia’s economic future. Innovative credit, payment, and financing tools will be the arteries of the new digital economy.”
Final Word: Digital Nation-Building Through Inclusion
As Malaysia eyes regional leadership in ASEAN’s digital transformation, Sea Limited is playing a foundational role—not just as a service provider but as a digital nation-builder.
The numbers are impressive. The stories are inspiring. But perhaps more importantly, Sea’s vision reflects a future where technology levels the playing field, enabling businesses of all sizes to dream big.
“97% of businesses in Malaysia are micro-enterprises. If we want to grow the digital economy, we must include them. That’s why everything we build is about accessibility and empowerment,” Terence concludes.
