The UK has emphasised its commitment to digital and technology collaboration with Malaysia and the wider region, as it participated in UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week 2026, held in Kuala Lumpur last week.
The event was organised by the UK government in partnership with key organisations including Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce (BMCC) and HSBC Malaysia. It saw the participation of 10 British tech companies, as well as the launch of the ASEAN-UK TradeTech Lookbook, which was billed as a practical tool for stakeholders from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that are looking to translate digitalisation objectives into operational reality.
The UK companies participating in the event included established names and start-ups working across different areas of the tech sector, from AI to data centres. The 10 businesses are worth a combined enterprise valuation of more than £100bn and employ more than 30,000 people worldwide. They include semiconductor design leader Arm and a number of tech unicorns – start-ups valued at more than US$1bn – such as Revolut and Darktrace. Other UK firms, including Arup, iProov and UnionDigital Bank, showcased innovations in areas such as cybersecurity and digital twin technology.
Event aims to build on existing digital technology partnerships
The UK government pointed out that it already had strong digital and technological ties with the region. Arm had previously been selected by the Malaysian government as a strategic AI partner enabling its National Semiconductor Strategy. Moving in the other direction, SMD Semiconductor, which is operated by the government of Malaysia’s largest state Sarawak, opened a new R&D Hub in South Wales last summer. The British Embassy Manila also announced a strategic partnership with the AI and Analytics Association of the Philippines during the event.
As well as practical networking sessions, the event featured a number of panel discussions on AI and cybersecurity that highlighted emerging threats, regulatory challenges, and the need for increased international cooperation to manage risks in an increasingly digital economy. The newly launched Lookbook, meanwhile, aims to position the UK as a trusted partner for ASEAN governments and businesses looking to modernise trade.
UK Trade Commissioner for Asia Pacific Martin Kent said: “The UK is a long-term partner to Southeast Asia’s digital growth. UK–Southeast Asia Tech Week highlights our commitment to working with the region to harness cutting-edge technology, strengthen digital resilience and unlock new commercial opportunities between UK and Southeast Asian businesses.”
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