Maybank and TikTok Shop Malaysia today have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to launch the ASEAN SME Upskilling and Digitalisation Programme, marking the first multi-market collaboration of its kind between a financial institution and the e-commerce platform in the region. The initiative aims to equip small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary to integrate digital commerce and expand their businesses beyond traditional brick-and-mortar models.
The programme will begin with a pilot phase in Malaysia, featuring three main components: a webinar, a workshop, and a six-month accelerator plan. Participants in the accelerator programme will receive dedicated mentoring and coaching from both Maybank and TikTok Shop, with personalised targets designed to enhance their digital business capabilities.
The initial cohort will focus on women entrepreneurs, aligning with Maybank’s HERpower initiative. According to the bank, women-led SMEs currently make up 20% of all SMEs in Malaysia. Through this initiative, it aims to increase this to at least 25% by 2026.
As part of HERpower, Maybank aims to bridge funding gaps and provide financial solutions, mentorship, and business development support for women entrepreneurs. The collaboration with TikTok Shop further enhances this effort by offering SMEs increased social media exposure and traffic support, helping them scale from local markets to broader regional and global opportunities.
Over the next 12 months, similar programmes will be introduced in select ASEAN markets, customised to local business environments. Maybank adds that this initiative reflects its broader M25+ strategy of purpose-driven banking and social impact programmes, reinforcing its commitment to fostering sustainable business growth through digital transformation.
