April 2024 Newsletter


6 May 2024


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A P R I L  2 0 2 4
H E A D L I N E S
Led by the AEF Greater Bay Area Fund managed by Gobi GBA, the investment aims to achieve an integrated commercial loop of screening, diagnosis, and treatment for scoliosis. Targeting FDA certification, Aitrasound® aims to enter the US market by Q3 2024, bolstering its global presence.
HonestDocs Raises US$5.6 Million To Build a 'Sierra AI for Healthcare' in Southeast Asia
Thailand's HonestDocs (HD) recognises the transformative potential of AI in enhancing the customer journey within Southeast Asia's healthcare industry. By harnessing the power of generative AI, HD aims to streamline processes, boost staff productivity, and ultimately revolutionise the healthcare experience.
T O P   S T O R I E S
Gobi Managing Partner, Jamaludin Bujang accepted the prestigious award on April 30th at EQ Hotel, Kuala Lumpur. The Islamic Finance News (IFN) Awards recognise excellence within the Islamic financial industry worldwide, spanning various sectors and regions. Winners were determined through a rigorous voting process followed by thorough due diligence. This award highlights Gobi's dedication and achievements in the Digital Muslim Economy/TaqwaTech verticals. 
Fasset Partners with MBSB to Explore Blockchain-Powered Shariah-Compliant Banking Solutions
Fasset's forthcoming debut in Malaysia follows its successful ventures in Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates – heralding a new era of digital asset solutions for Malaysia Building Society Berhad (MBSB) Group's extensive customer base. Through this collaboration, MBSB Group aims to serve diverse consumer segments by introducing various digital asset classes, leveraging an innovative online banking platform with fully regulated digital asset investment options crafted in partnership with Fasset.
Clearbot Combats Ocean Pollution with Seafaring Bots
Clearbot, an award-winning Hong Kong marine tech startup, is revolutionising the battle against ocean plastic pollution with autonomous seafaring robots designed to collect vast amounts of plastic waste. Winning the first City I&T Grand Challenge has propelled Clearbot's growth, enabling it to expand its team and forge strategic partnerships and commercial collaborations with tech giants.
PolicyStreet and ERTH Celebrate Earth Day with Insurance for Gig Workers
The ERTH Heroes, who are gig workers, will receive complimentary on-the-job personal accident coverage with Inconvenience Allowance, in line with PolicyStreet’s goal to serve 2.5 million gig workers and underinsured individuals by 2028.
C O U N T R Y   A N D   I N D U S T R Y   F O C U S
In a conversation with Sarah Chen-Spellings, Fara explores topics ranging from the business landscape to the potential within faith-driven markets, and the convergence of faith, finance, and technology.
LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE
Malaysia is Great for Startups Looking to Scale Up Regionally: Insights from Gobi Partners Co-Founder
Thomas G. Tsao strategically chose Kuala Lumpur as Gobi's Southeast Asian headquarters in 2015, capitalising on Malaysia's unique advantages as a 'PentaHub' connecting five key markets. This concept emphasises Malaysia's pivotal role in accessing significant market opportunities, leveraging benefits like a shared language with Indonesia for market entry, cultural diversity aiding expansion into India and China, and easy access to Western markets. Malaysia's potential in the global Muslim economy further solidified Thomas' decision.
T H O U G H T   L E A D E R S H I P
As the holy month of Ramadan transitions to Syawal, Gobi launched "TaqwaTech Tuesdays" – a series dedicated to celebrating TaqwaTech portfolio companies' advancements in the Muslim consumer segment. Click on each photo to delve into their accompanying articles.
U P C O M I N G   E V E N T
Happening from 24 - 25 July 2024 at the Hilton Hotel, Kuala Lumpur - gain insights from Jamaludin's 29 years of experience funding startups across Asia. Save over 30% on ticket prices while they last and enjoy an automatic 25% discount at self-checkout when purchasing five or more tickets.
LIMITED SEATS AVAILABLE
E V E N T   R E C A P
Gobi Partners Annual Management 
Planning and Retreat
Gathering from across China, the Philippines, Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam, over 50 Gobi colleagues convened on April 16th and 17th for Gobi's Annual Management Planning and Retreat. During the event, they outlined ambitious goals for the year, enjoyed a James Bond-themed dinner, and engaged in a thrilling treasure hunt at the Sunway Lagoon theme park in Kuala Lumpur. This retreat strengthened bonds among colleagues, and with renewed vigour and a shared vision, they are ready to propel Gobi to new heights!