Sunway iLabs, the innovation lab and corporate venture capital (CVC) arm of Sunway Group, has announced a strategic partnership with China International Capital Corporation (CICC), one of China’s leading investment banks, to strengthen collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) and deep tech innovation between China and Malaysia.
The partnership was unveiled at FutureX Connect, held at Sunway Resort Hotel — part of Sunway iLabs’ flagship FutureX Series that connects startups, corporates, and investors from across the region to explore opportunities in AI and deep tech.
CICC Capital, which manages approximately USD 60 billion in assets, is recognised as one of China’s leading investors in frontier technologies. Its investment portfolio spans semiconductor materials for AI computing, AI-powered healthcare platforms, automotive intelligence, mobile communication networks, and cybersecurity solutions.
According to Stephen Ng, Head of CICC Southeast Asia and South Asia and CEO of CICC Singapore, the partnership combines CICC Capital’s global investment expertise with Sunway iLabs’ innovation ecosystem, which connects startups, academia, corporates, and venture initiatives.
“This marks a vital step in expanding China’s AI ecosystem beyond its domestic borders,” said Ng. “It will enable Chinese innovation leaders to pilot and scale application-focused AI solutions in Malaysia and Southeast Asia — and vice versa.”
For Sunway iLabs, the partnership opens new pathways into China’s mature AI ecosystem, reinforcing its long-term strategy of integrating innovation, investment, and sustainable growth.
“By linking the two ecosystems, this collaboration creates a two-way bridge — China contributes proven AI technologies and market-tested models, while Malaysia provides a diverse environment for regional scaling and innovation exchange,” said Matt Van Leeuwen, Chief Innovation Officer of Sunway Group and CEO of Sunway iLabs.
The partnership reflects a growing trend of cross-border cooperation in AI across Asia. With China leading in pragmatic, application-based AI adoption and Malaysia emerging as a hub for digital transformation, the alliance aims to build a foundation for innovation in digital infrastructure, AI commercialisation, and talent development — areas critical to sustaining Southeast Asia’s competitiveness in the global digital economy.
This collaboration builds on Sunway iLabs’ expanding network of global partnerships, including with Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent venture capital firms. Together, these alliances position Sunway iLabs as a connector between global capital, cutting-edge technology, and Southeast Asia’s innovation landscape.
Sunway iLabs said it will continue to nurture high-potential startups, accelerate AI and deep tech adoption, and strengthen the region’s position as a growing innovation hub. The FutureX Series will return in 2026 with FutureX Ventures Fest, furthering Sunway’s goal of bridging global networks with local talent.
“This collaboration highlights Sunway iLabs’ growing role as a bridge between global innovation networks and regional opportunity,” said Van Leeuwen. “By aligning with international partners such as CICC Capital, Sunway continues to expand Malaysia’s innovation capacity and reinforce its position as a key player in Asia’s digital transformation journey.”
He added that the partnership underscores Sunway’s commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth through technology, investment, and education — empowering the next generation of innovators to build a smarter, more connected future.