How have we done it? Storytelling that transcends platforms.
In the era of digital economy, we have witnessed the rise and fall of small businesses. Alas, as the Internet technology lowered the threshold of starting a business, it becomes ever more competitive, and it requires a certain qualities to persevere through challenging economic climate and unprecedented pandemic of 2020.
SME Thought Leadership
The birth of the sub-brand ‘JIWA SME’ came about pre-pandemic. In 2019, it was marketed as a closed-door, ticketed conference that convened the best minds from the entrepreneurial and academics.
“Jiwa SME is a reflection of the essence of Entrepreneurship; it is not just a business journey, but a bold adventure into innovation and discovery that requires not just individual courage, but collective effort transcends sectors and industries. Big and small,” said Ashwad Ismail, Vice President & Editor- in-Chief of Astro AWANI.
At the height of the pandemic, we have evolved the the sub-brand with the big picture of enabling the economic recovery by supporting SMEs through digital transformation.
With Google Malaysia as our Knowledge Partner, we have curated a series of inspirational SME digitalization stories, along with digital workshops with spokespersons and certified trainers from Google.
“Throughout pandemic and post-pandemic, we have witnessed the inspiring real stories of entrepreneurial journey of many SME players, traders, businesses where creativity, resilience, and collaboration are not just encouraged, but celebrated.
"They do more than generate revenue; they ignite minds and fortify communities, and definitely pave the way for a future that is built on the passion of those who dare to dream,” Ashwad continued.
Fast forward to 2023, as we have exited endemicity, the time is ripe to rebuild relationships. What better way to establish rapport other than meeting the small business owners in person?
Road Tour as An Enabler
The concept is simple – marry “pop-up booths and stage activities” with “SME thought leadership”, and you will get what we’ve branded as “Jelajah JIWA SME”, a branch out version our content curation that extends beyond the realm of TV and digital content.
With the support of Unifi Business as the Main Sponsor, Jelajah JIWA SME kickstarted July this year, in East Malaysia the vibrant city of Kota Kinabalu (Imago Shopping Mall).
"We have since journeyed to four zones: Johor Bahru (Toppen Shopping Centre), Kota Bharu (AEON Mall Kota Bharu) and Bukit Mertajam (AEON Mall Bukit Mertajam), before headed back to Kuala Lumpur (The Curve).
Across the 5 cities, we have welcomed over 60,000 visitors and 2,000 SME participants, 187 exhibitors who showcased local SME products and solution providers. Our events have also garnered an extended exposure to mall goers at more than 98,000.
Our objective is to connect with the grassroot entrepreneurs, as well as NGOs, by providing a platform for the business owners and community leaders to elevate their brand through a credible mainstream media.
"Along the way, the road tours have featured inspiring stories from the likes of IKSnita, Backyard@Kokol, Hash Cream Food Industries, Fateh Watches, Kapten Batik, Eng’s Popcorn, Lan Solo, Mariyah Holdings, and many others.
We have also garnered participation from 65 small business owners from around Malaysia, where Bank Rakyat sponsored the pitching sessions in Kelantan, Penang and Kuala Lumpur.
The End Game
Encouraging grassroots entrepreneurship is the envisioned pathway towards transforming into an entrepreneurial nation by 2030.
“As the most trusted news brand in Malaysia, we will continue to celebrate these journeys, support these dreamers, and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit that drives progress,” Ashwad added.
This year, our content predominantly centered on leveraging digital marketing solutions through social media platforms.
"In the upcoming year, we plan to pivot our focus towards digital tools that facilitate sustained business growth, encompassing Customer Relationship Management (CRM), equity crowdfunding, and AI-powered solutions.
Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted elements contributing to business success, stands as a crucial driver for accelerating global prominence.
Next up, under JIWA SME Go Global, we will spotlight more narratives showcasing local trailblazers venturing into the international market by exporting products and expertise nurtured locally, here in Malaysia.
By highlighting their journeys and successes in the global arena, we aim to play a part in crafting a roadmap for businesses to thrive and conquer global markets.
This, to us, marks the true essence of what Astro AWANI believes in — to inspire, enable, and propel entrepreneurial dreams.
