Platforms have transformed how we work, play and create economic value in Southeast Asia. Many of the leading home-grown technology platforms in Southeast Asia are online-to-offline (O2O) in nature, requiring both physical and digital infrastructure to function. This is due to the need for platforms to invest and build these infrastructure themselves in order to grow and expand their business, given the development challenges of Southeast Asia.
The O2O Platform Economy has become a frequent topic of discussion across policy areas, including its role in the digitalisation of the economy, labour and employment, competition, consumer protection and privacy, among other topics. Given the fast-evolving nature of the Platform Economy, it is more complex that it appears on the surface.
To support constructive and balanced policy discussions around Platforms and the Platform Economy in Southeast Asia, the Tech for Good Institute commissioned this report as its first publication. It provides a broad introduction to the Platform Economy in Southeast Asia and sets the stage for further work including deep dives into the issues and challenges in making the Platform Economy work for all.
Platforms have invested in and contributed to Southeast Asia’s digital economy by developing critical physical and digital infrastructure, and providing access and convenience to consumers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Consumers enjoy better access, affordability and financial inclusion when using Platforms. MSMEs can expand their customer reach through Platforms while bolstering their resilience and maintaining business continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the role of digital platforms in Southeast Asia?
Southeast Asia's opportunity: Converging online and offline worlds
Navigating the challenges of the Platform Economy together
A Deep Dive into Malaysia's Platform Economy
Key Partners:
Contributing partners:
World Economic Forum, Ant Group, Capgemini, Carro, FinAccel / Kredivo, FPT Software, Futurise, Insignia Ventures, Kaodim, Klook, LinkAja, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, Microsoft, Ministry of Communications and Information, Singapore, Ministry of Entrepreneurship Development and Cooperatives, Malaysia, Ministry of Information & Communications, Vietnam, MUFG Bank, OVO (PT Visionet Internasional), PayPal, Recommend Group / Sejasa, Singtel, Stripe, Wise.
