PUCHONG – The Selangor Information Technology & Digital Economy Corporation (Sidec) has announced the return of its flagship Selangor Retail Tech Xccelerator (Retail-X) programme, with applications now officially open for its latest cohort.
Positioned as one of Malaysia’s leading retail-focused accelerator programmes, Retail-X continues to play a pivotal role in transforming the retail ecosystem by equipping high-potential SMEs with the tools, strategies, and networks needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
Driving Retail Innovation for the Digital Economy
Retail-X is a 12-week accelerator programme designed to support retail SMEs transitioning from traditional business models into digitally integrated, omnichannel operations. Participants gain access to expert mentorship, immersive workshops, and hands-on adoption of key retail technologies, enabling them to build scalable, resilient, and data-driven businesses capable of competing both locally and internationally.
The programme focuses on practical implementation across areas such as livestream commerce, AI-driven customer engagement, data analytics, personalised marketing, smart inventory management, and omnichannel integration, bridging strategy with real-world execution.
Industry Support and Mentorship
Retail-X is supported by a strong network of ecosystem partners and industry leaders. Previous programme partners have included key players such as Affin Bank, AEON, Xendit, Plug and Play APAC, TikTok Shop, AEON, DHL, Perbadanan Nasional Berhad (PERNAS), and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), providing participants with access to financial solutions, retail platforms, and digital commerce tools.
In addition, participants benefit from guidance by experienced and well-recognised industry mentors. Notable mentors from previous cohorts include:
● Low Ngai Yuen: Managing Director, AEON360
● Goh Boon Peng: Founder & CEO, Mystartr
● Aizat Rahim: Managing Director, Borong (Dropee)
Strong History of Proven Results
Since its inception, Retail-X has demonstrated strong impact within Malaysia’s retail ecosystem:
● 3 cohorts successfully delivered
● 110 SMEs accelerated
● RM180 million in total GMV generated
These milestones reflect Sidec’s continued commitment to strengthening retail SMEs and enabling sustainable growth through technology adoption across diverse retail segments.
Among its most remarkable success stories are last year’s top six winners ODC Food Industries Sdn Bhd, HTFU Restaurants Sdn Bhd, Laurels & Leafz Flora Sdn Bhd , ALFA Consortium Sdn Bhd, SpectacleX (M) Sdn Bhd, and Mojomore (M) Sdn Bhd, each exemplifying exceptional growth, innovation, and market impact through the Retail-X programme.
Retail-X focuses on accelerating innovation and growth across five key retail sectors, namely Fashion & Lifestyle, Health, Beauty & Wellness, Food & Beverage, Home Living & Appliances, and Social Impact Brands. This sector-focused approach ensures that participants receive relevant insights, targeted mentorship, and industry-specific strategies to scale effectively in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
A key differentiator of Retail-X lies in its strong ecosystem integration, connecting participants to a dynamic network of industry mentors, technology providers, and investors. Top-performing SMEs are further elevated through curated international exposure opportunities to Shanghai, China. The mission featured strategic visits to global tech and commerce leaders such as ByteDance Shanghai, Baozun, ChatPlus AI, SUNMI Group, LeapIn, and Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book). These engagements provided firsthand insights into AI-driven commerce, live selling, and scalable digital retail ecosystems.
This is further strengthened through Sidec’s World Stage Venture platform, which has facilitated global market access across key innovation hubs including Shanghai and Hangzhou empowering participants to expand beyond Malaysia with greater confidence and capability.
“Retail-X reflects our ongoing commitment to future-proofing Malaysia’s SMEs by equipping them with the capabilities to navigate digital disruption. Retail is no longer just about physical presence, it is about creating seamless, data-driven experiences across multiple
touchpoints. Through Retail-X, we are enabling businesses to make that transition confidently and effectively,” said Yong Kai Ping, CEO of Sidec.
Applications Now Open
Applications for the latest Retail-X cohort are now open to eligible retail SMEs, founders, and operators seeking to accelerate growth and adopt new technologies.
Participants will benefit from:
● Mentorship from industry experts
● Access to investors and funding opportunities
● Hands-on retail technology adoption
● Market access and brand visibility
● Regional and international expansion pathways
Retail businesses ready to scale and innovate are encouraged to apply and be part of Malaysia’s next wave of retail transformation.
Apply now at: https://www.sidec.com.my/retail-x/