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What is the "metaverse" actually is and why does everyone keep talking about it? The metaverse is essentially a giant, interactive online space where people can meet, play games, learn, and even shop in 3D, using personalised digital characters or avatars. It's a bit like a mix between a video game like Roblox or The Sims, and your everyday internet Browse, but much more immersive. And soon, many of your favourite Malaysian brands can be found there too.
On 16 June, the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) teamed up with a local company called Youniverse Games Sdn. Bhd. to launch the "Businesses in Metaverse" programme. This initiative plans to help 200 Malaysian businesses kickstart their venture into this new digital frontier, with support worth up to RM10,000 per business.
Why Are Businesses Rushing to the Metaverse? (And Why Should You Care?)
The programme offers businesses five "metaverse packages" to choose from, most of which are fully funded.
As consumers, you can shop for both virtual goods (like digital clothes for your avatar) and real-world products (like new shoes delivered to your door), all within a gamified digital space. For hardcore gamers, you can buy and "wear" branded digital items like a unique hat or outfit for your in-game character.
These businesses are providing immersive experiences, so you can interact with AI-powered exhibits or quizzes that teach you about products or services. You might even encounter a brand's very own animated AI mascot roaming the metaverse, ready to chat and engage with players. They can also launch their own custom mini-games where you can compete for real-world rewards and see your name on leaderboards.
MDEC's CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil explains that this partnership helps Malaysian brands "future-proof themselves" and find a "new market channel" for storytelling and engaging with customers. making money. Local talents can boost their brands in the metaverse by connecting with Malaysian 3D content creators.
What Businesses Can Be Expected
Businesses eligible for this programme must be registered in Malaysia with at least 51% Malaysian ownership and have some social media presence. Priority will be given to brands that are specifically targeting Gen Z and Gen Alpha, especially in trendy sectors like fashion, food & beverage, lifestyle, education, and youth entertainment.
The entire program runs on Yooca, a homegrown metaverse platform, which offers gaming, social interaction, and shopping in a 3D environment. Over 600 million global users have engaged with the metaverse every month, meanwhile brands such as TGI Fridays, Tune Talk, and APOM are already on board with this intiative.
Applications for businesses on this website are open until 17 July 2025.
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