Dr. James Ong is an entrepreneur and community builder and has over 35 years of experience in Asia, US and Europe across multiple industry verticals. He is currently the founder and CEO of Origami that builds ventures with frontier technologies such as AI, Enterprise Software, Blockchain, Web3 and Metaverse.

James founded Artificial Intelligence International Institute (AIII), a think tank advocating Sustainable AI for Humanity. James started his career as an AI scientist at leading US MCC research lab on advanced AI Fifth Generation Computer research and was with Trilogy, an AI pioneer and enterprise software startup.

He is also adjunct professor and mentor-in-residence at SUTD and serves as mentor for NUS, NTU A*STAR and Lean Launchpad program. James received his PhD in Management Information System specializing on AI for Organizational Governance and Policy and Business Process Automation and MA & BA in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Austin.

William Zhong is the Founder & CEO of Irista.AI, a cutting‑edge AI startup democratising visual intelligence for businesses. With over two decades of experience in enterprise-level R&D and more than a decade in senior technical leadership, William has spearheaded the development of scalable, high-performance AI systems. An alumnus of the University of British Columbia, he has cultivated deep expertise in machine learning, computer vision, and system architecture—skills he’s applied to drive Irista.AI’s mission of delivering powerful visual AI capabilities across industries.

As a visionary leader and entrepreneur, William excels at translating complex technology into real-world solutions. Under his guidance, Irista.AI has launched innovative products that automate and optimise visual data workflows, helping clients increase efficiency and accuracy. Active in the broader AI community, he frequently speaks on topics ranging from AI strategy to ethical deployment of visual intelligence. William’s unique combination of technical brilliance, business acumen, and leadership positions him as an engaging speaker on the future of AI-driven visual insights.

An ASEAN-focused Business Adviser and Serial Entrepreneur, Mr. Stephen Lai is a former multinational executive who has spent over 30 years accumulating cross-cultural business experience and extensive global people networks while overseeing offices in Singapore (HQ), Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Saigon and Mumbai, and pioneering large scale commodity and investment conferences in ten major cities across Asia.

A business mentor and fund-raising adviser to tech start-up CEO’s in Silicon Valley, Singapore and Penang, Stephen also actively consults with Chinese Enterprises in the areas of international business and partnership development in ASEAN countries.

A former Adviser to BuonMaThuot Coffee Exchange Centre, Vietnam’s first commodity exchange, Stephen’s varied international career includes a stint as Chief Representative (ASEAN) for one of China’s largest fintech solution providers listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, Regional Business Development roles with global financial information giant Reuters, Investment Technology Manager with Koeneman Capital Management – Asia’s first quant-based boutique investment firm founded by former Head of Equities at Government Investment Corporation (GIC) of Singapore- and Business Consultant to Singapore Government’s premier ICT R&D Centre, Kent Ridge Digital Lab (later renamed A*STAR).

Stephen is currently Chairman of Malaysia-China (Greater Bay Area) Science-Tech Innovation Alliance and Founder-President of Penang-Chengdu Friendship Association. During 2012-2014, he was tasked to promote internationalisation of China enterprises under the Belt and Road Initiative when he was appointed Executive Adviser to the Director of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Shenzhen Municipal Committee, who was concurrently President of China (Shenzhen) International Chamber of Commerce. In addition, Stephen served as Deputy Director on the China (Shenzhen) Financial Expo and Conference Planning Committee chaired by Shenzhen Mayor for 5 years.

An Industrial Adviser and Adjunct Professor at DRB-HICOM University of Automotive Malaysia, Stephen is an Industrial Entrepreneurship Fellow at the Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM). He earned an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and double degrees in Mathematics and Electrical Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin.

A former ASEAN Scholar in Singapore, Penang-born Stephen is a Certified Career Coach and enjoys training youths in the areas of Resilience, Leadership Development and Social Entrepreneurship. During 2018-2021, he served as Strategic Adviser to Penang State Minister for Trade, Industry and Entrepreneur Development in his home state in Malaysia.

Chong Seng Lim is the Director of Ecosystem Development at Digital Penang Sdn Bhd, where he leads impactful initiatives to foster Penang’s technology sector. Since October 2022, Cseng has driven significant growth by enhancing startup support, facilitating market access, and building strategic partnerships.

His leadership has resulted in Penang being recognized as an Outstanding Ecosystem for
Medium-Sized Cities by StartupBlink in 2023, and he has successfully expanded the local startup base and introduced pioneering programs like the Hardtech and Deeptech Hybrid Programme and Penang Digital Creative Week.

Cseng’s diverse career spans technology, entrepreneurial ecosystems, and beyond, including operational leadership roles in cryptocurrency, food and beverage, and brand development. His extensive experience in various industries and strategic roles highlights his commitment to innovation and ecosystem growth.

Through his work, Cseng continues to drive advancements in Penang’s tech community and support the broader startup landscape.

With over a decade of experience in the agriculture and sustainability sectors, Kennard brings extensive expertise in strategic innovation, venture design, and partnership development. His career spans banking, trade promotion, digitalisation, and innovation. He currently serves as Vice President at TRST01, a sustainability technology company that enables traceability, ESG reporting, and carbon management across supply chains, with a strong focus on the ASEAN region.

As an intrapreneur, investor and general manager. Shaun has a total of 18 years of experience in business development, sales and marketing. Now, he leads the EGH as the premier startup community builder in Malaysia’s northern region…bringing together VCs, alternative investments firms, startup founders, government agencies and other ecosystem players into melting pot for funding and growth.

Software Engineer with over 15+ years of experience in software engineering, data base, business analysis and system architecture. Expert and highly familiar Microsoft .NET, Oracle, MS SQL Server, XML, HTML, Java Script programming languages.

Expert in reporting applications, data visualization. Familiar with Semiconductor & electronics manufacturing business. Familiar with MES (CAMSTAR, FAB300, AMAT Smart
Factory), ERP (SAP, Microsoft Dynamics ERP, Microsoft Dynamics CRM), Office Automation System and supply chain management systems. Experienced managing IT projects and IT solution design and architecture.

Results-driven IT executive with 25 years of experience leading teams in developing and implementing innovative technology solutions. Proven track record of driving digital transformation, reducing IT costs, and increasing operational efficiency. Skilled in strategic planning, team leadership, and recognized for problem-solving abilities and strong business process improvement skills using various IT solutions.

Master of Science in Control and Automation Engineering from Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, with over 15 years of progressive experience delivering Building Automation, Integrated Building Management Systems (IBMS), energy management, sustainability solutions, and industrial automation projects from concept to commissioning. Recognized for strong technical leadership, effective client collaboration, and successful end-to-end project delivery, with a proven track record of managing large-scale, high-value automation initiatives and ensuring seamless integration of PLC, DDC, SCADA, and IoT-enabled platforms.

During his Master’s research at NTU, Shailesh focused on the design and development of a robotic arm for minimally invasive brain surgery. This innovation demonstrated how advanced robotics, control systems, and engineering principles can solve real-world challenges, improving precision, efficiency, and outcomes. Inspired by this philosophy, Shailesh co-founded Zealcorps to bring automation and intelligent control solutions out of the lab and into the real world—helping buildings, industries, and critical infrastructure operate smarter, consume less energy, and make a positive impact on society.

At Zealcorps, leadership is rooted in deep technical expertise, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability. The company delivers tailored solutions across building automation, energy management, sustainability consulting, and industrial automation to commercial, residential, and manufacturing clients—enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and meeting evolving environmental standards.

Managing Director Role at Zealcorps

As Managing Director, Shailesh provides strategic leadership and overall management of Zealcorps, ensuring sustainable growth, profitability, and operational excellence across all business verticals. He serves as the primary liaison between the Board of Directors, senior management, clients, and stakeholders, driving the company’s vision, mission, and long-term objectives.

Under his direction, Zealcorps:

Implements intelligent automation systems integrated with energy efficiency and sustainability goals. Delivers high-performance building and industrial systems that optimize energy use, improve operational reliability, and reduce environmental impact.

Combines technical rigor with client-centric delivery, ensuring projects meet operational targets while providing measurable ROI. Maintains a culture of innovation, merging advanced engineering principles with practical real-world applications.

Vikneswaran is the Manager of New Investment at Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), where he oversees a multi-sector portfolio in Global Services and Emerging Technologies to drive Malaysia’s digital economy forward. His role focuses on attracting strategic digital investments, strengthening stakeholder engagement, and facilitating opportunity closure—contributing to high-value job creation and positioning Malaysia as a leading digital hub in the region.

With over 19 years of experience in service leadership, Vikneswaran brings deep expertise in customer experience analysis, outsourcing management, and operational transformation. His career has been dedicated to supporting the growth of digital investment-related businesses while embedding sustainable practices into the ecosystem.

At MDEC, Vikneswaran plays a pivotal role in advancing Malaysia’s competitiveness by collaborating with investors, industry leaders, and government stakeholders to deliver measurable results aligned with national priorities. Recognized for his strategic, diligent, and outcome-driven approach, he is committed to enabling digital innovation and fostering long-term growth for Malaysia’s digital economy.

With over 23 years of experience in the semiconductor industry, currently serving as Country Manager, Workforce Development for Micron Memory. In addition to this role, I lead the Future Skill Talent Council (FSTC) for Malaysia’s Electrical and Electronics sector as chairperson, driving strategic initiatives to shape the nation’s future workforce upskilling.

Educational background includes a Diploma and Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, complemented by an MBA in Business Management from the University of Derby, UK. Presently pursuing a PhD in Management, further deepening expertise in organizational leadership and strategic development.

Mingshen Li (Mark), Project Manager of the International Business Department and Head of the Malaysia Branch, Saichuang Weilai. He is dedicated to promoting global innovation and entrepreneurship through competitions, incubation, and investment.

He has led major international initiatives, engaging over 1,000 overseas talents and projects, including the “Smart Hungary” series with the Hungarian Consulate, innovation contests in Switzerland, and entrepreneurship competitions in China. Appointed by the Consulate General of Hungary in China, he has organised and hosted flagship events for two consecutive years. His contributions to international science and technology collaboration have been recognized by Nobel Prize laureate Katalin Karikó.