[MSME Sustainability Made Possible] Opening Ceremony - Powered by Ant International

 

Overview: The opening ceremony for the "MSME Sustainability Made Possible" event was an energizing and inspiring start to a day dedicated to advancing micro and small enterprises' role in sustainable economic growth. The ceremony emphasized the importance of MSMEs in Southeast Asia and beyond, the integration of sustainability into business practices, and the role of technology in driving this change.



Key Points from Doug Feagin’s Speech:

  • MSMEs' Economic Importance: MSMEs account for 90% of all businesses and 50% of total employment in Southeast Asia, making them essential to regional economies.
  • Travel and Tourism as a Growth Engine: Travel and tourism, contributing 11% to global GDP, have rebounded strongly post-pandemic. The recovery has been significantly supported by digital innovations such as digital wallets, digital banks, and mobile payments.
  • Role of Alipay Plus: Ant International's cross-border payment solution, Alipay Plus, facilitates seamless mobile payments for travellers, allowing them to explore beyond major cities and engage with MSMEs across diverse regions. This technology-driven travel growth helps smaller businesses benefit from the tourism boom.
  • Inclusivity and Sustainability: Feagin emphasized the need for sustainability to be integrated into everyday business practices, urging all participants to view it as a necessity rather than a luxury.
  • Call to Action: He encouraged collaboration, open-mindedness, and a shared commitment to building a sustainable and inclusive future.


Themes:

  • Economic Empowerment: The event highlighted the crucial role MSMEs play in driving economic activity and job creation.
  • Technological Advancement: The speech underscored how digital innovation has transformed travel and commerce, making it more accessible and inclusive.
  • Sustainability as a Must-Have: Sustainability was emphasised as a fundamental, non-negotiable aspect of business strategy for a resilient and prosperous future.


Closing Thoughts: Doug Feagin concluded by inspiring attendees to collaborate, embrace sustainability, and consider the well-being of future generations. He set the tone for a day of learning, exchange, and actionable insights to support MSMEs and drive meaningful progress.

 

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Speakers:

  • Doug Feagin, President, Ant International Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief FinTech Officer, Monetary Authority of Singapore & Group Chief Executive Officer - Designate, Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN)
  • Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief FinTech Officer, Monetary Authority of Singapore & Group Chief Executive Officer - Designate, Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN)
 

 

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