Khazanah Nasional Bhd, Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund, alongside its subsidiary Jelawang Capital, has officially opened applications for the second cohort of the Emerging Fund Managers’ Programme (EMP), a significant step toward nurturing the country’s venture capital landscape.
This initiative, supported under Khazanah’s Dana Impak framework, aims to empower Malaysian venture capital managers by offering year-round application submissions, providing greater accessibility and flexibility compared to the first cohort.
Expanding Opportunities for Malaysian Fund Managers
The EMP’s second cohort introduces a lower minimum fund size requirement, making it easier for emerging managers to participate and gain crucial support in early fundraising stages.
The first cohort, launched previously, backed notable firms like Vynn Capital, Kairous Capital, and First Move, which collectively deployed over US$14.77 million into more than 10 early-stage startups, with a majority being Malaysian-based.
Historical Context: Building a Strong Foundation
Khazanah’s commitment to fostering innovation dates back years, with initiatives like the Dana Impak program designed to catalyze growth in Malaysia’s startup ecosystem through strategic investments and capacity-building efforts.
The success of the first EMP cohort demonstrated the potential for such programs to bridge funding gaps, particularly for early-stage ventures that often struggle to secure capital in a competitive market.
Impact on Malaysia’s Startup Ecosystem
By supporting emerging fund managers, Khazanah is indirectly fueling innovation and entrepreneurship, key drivers of Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional hub for technology and digital economy.
This program is expected to create a ripple effect, encouraging more local startups to scale and compete globally while fostering a culture of risk-taking and investment in high-growth sectors.
Looking Ahead: Future Prospects
Industry experts anticipate that the second cohort will attract a diverse pool of talent, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as an attractive destination for venture capital in Southeast Asia.
With year-round applications, Khazanah is signaling a long-term commitment to adaptability, ensuring that promising fund managers are not constrained by rigid timelines.
The EMP aligns with broader national goals under Malaysia’s economic transformation plans, aiming to support over 100 mid-tier companies and startups through various financial strategies as outlined in prior announcements.
For more details on how to apply, interested fund managers can visit the official Khazanah or Jelawang Capital websites to explore this transformative opportunity.
Alfred Lee
