Five years. It may seem like a blink of an eye, but for me, it’s a journey filled with purpose, growth, and countless lessons. As I reflect on my time leading Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN) Malaysia, I feel a deep sense of gratitude—not only for the opportunity to serve but for the incredible people and communities I’ve encountered along the way.
Entrepreneurship has always been more than just a sector to me; it’s a passion, a way of life. Having spent over 25 years in industries ranging from education and retail to construction and agriculture, I’ve witnessed firsthand the resilience, creativity, and determination it takes to turn dreams into reality. But it wasn’t until I joined GEN Malaysia that I truly understood the power of collective action in shaping an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
When I first took on the role of Managing Director of GEN Malaysia five years ago, I brought with me not only my professional experience but also a deep-seated belief in the potential of our people. Malaysia is a land brimming with talent, diversity, and ambition. Yet, I also recognized the challenges—access to resources, gaps in education, and a need for platforms that connect, support, and celebrate entrepreneurs.
This is where Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW) became a cornerstone of our mission. More than a celebration, GEW Malaysia is a call to action. It’s about bringing people together—seasoned business leaders, emerging startups, students, and policymakers—to share ideas, ignite partnerships, and build a culture of innovation and inclusion.
As we mark the fifth year of GEW Malaysia under my leadership, I can’t help but feel humbled by how far we’ve come. What started as a series of modest events has grown into the largest entrepreneurship celebration in Malaysia. This year, we’re hosting over 60 activities in collaboration with more than 20 partners, focusing on critical themes such as Digital Transformation, Financial Empowerment, Resilience, Sustainable Growth, and Local to Global Expansion.
But numbers alone don’t tell the full story. What makes GEW Malaysia truly special are the individuals and communities behind it. From a young entrepreneur in rural Sabah who’s now exporting local crafts globally to SMEs pivoting to digital platforms during challenging times—these are the stories that inspire me. They remind me why I do what I do.
Leading GEN Malaysia has also been a deeply personal journey. It has taught me to listen more, to embrace collaboration over competition, and to celebrate even the smallest wins. I’ve learned that leadership is not about having all the answers but creating a space where others can thrive.
As I look ahead, my vision remains clear: to continue empowering entrepreneurs, not just to succeed but to dream boldly and contribute meaningfully to society. GEW Malaysia is more than an annual event; it’s a legacy of hope and ambition, one that I hope will inspire generations to come.
To the partners, colleagues, and entrepreneurs who have walked this journey with me—thank you. Your trust, collaboration, and dedication fuel my passion and commitment. To those just starting their entrepreneurial journey, remember this: every great venture begins with a single step, a bold dream, and the courage to act.
Here’s to the next chapter, to bigger dreams and even greater impact. Together, we’ll continue to build an entrepreneurial Malaysia that stands tall on the global stage.
Datuk (DR) Vincent Chin
Managing Director, GEN Malaysia