The tech community was in disbelieving shock when news filtered out from Cyberjaya this morning that both Gopi Ganesalingam (left) a Senior Vice President and Raymond Siva Senior Vice President of Digital Investment had departed from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC).
Although MDEC has yet to release a formal statement — apart from some social media posts from MDEC employees expressing gratitude to them both — numerous sources have confirmed to Business Today that both Senior Vice Presidents had indeed left the national digital economy agency.
MDEC, a government body tasked with spearheading the nation’s digital transformation and the development of its digital economy, focuses on driving digital adoption, fostering innovation and attracting investments in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector to enhance Malaysia’s global competitiveness.
In this context, both Raymond and Gopi have worked tirelessly throughout the years to realise these objectives – and more.
Their efforts have been recognised and appreciated by the industry, particularly for their impact in nurturing public-private partnerships for the greater good of Malaysia. They were also instrumental in attracting foreign investments and supporting the local start-up community, among other achievements.
“Tremendous loss for MDEC and the nation”
When contacted, former MDEC CEO Datuk Yasmin Mahmood expressed that losing both Gopi and Raymond is a “tremendous loss for MDEC and the nation”.
She said: “Gopi was one of the best hires I’ve made. He came to us with a wealth of experience in the corporate sector as well as a tech entrepreneur. But what was most apparent to me was his sincere commitment towards nation-building and national service.”
“Both Gopi and Raymond are great assets that any leader can only hope for; strategic in their thinking, diligent in execution team players with high integrity,” she added.
Gopi was credited with spearheading the GAIN programme at MDEC which later was recognised as among the best initiatives developed under the guidance of his leadership.
In a statement, the National Tech Association of Malaysia (PIKOM) expressed their heartfelt gratitude to both professionals for their invaluable contributions to MDEC and the nation’s digital economy.
“Their unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and tireless efforts have played a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s digital landscape,” PIKOM said.
“Their leadership and expertise have been instrumental in fostering a vibrant and innovative digital ecosystem, nurturing local talent, and attracting global investments. Their departure leaves a void that will undoubtedly be felt by all who had the privilege of working with them.”
PIKOM further stated: “We wish Gopi and Raymond all the best in their future endeavours and are confident that their legacy will continue to inspire and guide the nation’s digital transformation.”
Recently, Raymond received a ‘Special Recognition Award’ from PIKOM, presented by Digital Ministry Secretary General Fabian Bigar. The award was in recognition of Raymond’s immense contribution to the technology industry in Malaysia and his relentless pursuit of positioning Malaysia on the global technology map.
“Raymond continues in a leadership role in championing investments into the country while ensuring that the local ecosystem benefits from the investments through joint collaboration, technology transfers, employment, and business opportunities,” PIKOM said at the event.
Gopi was also recognised last year by then Communications and Digital Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching with the ‘Tech Growth Catalyst for Malaysia’ award.
And earlier this year, PIKOM hosted an evening event to acknowledge what it described as “Gopi’s monumental contributions and tireless efforts to continue growing and nurturing Malaysia’s digital economy.”
Business Today previously reported on this event in an article entitled ‘Tech Community Celebrates Contributions of MDEC Visionary Gopi Ganesalingam’. You can read it here.
PIKOM Chairman Ong Chin Seong reportedly said: “Gopi’s crucial involvement has reshaped the industry landscape significantly, setting new benchmarks for innovation and elevating the overall industry towards unprecedented heights of success and recognition.”
“His dedication to nurturing collaborations between government and industry stands as a testament to his vision of a vigorous and flourishing Malaysian Digital Economy.”
Meanwhile, PIKOM Vice Chairman Alex Liew commended Gopi for his relentless pursuit of excellence and his unwavering dedication to the nation. “Gopi’s relentless endeavours serve as the cornerstone of our journey towards a future steeped in digital innovation,” said Liew.
“His patriotic zeal and relentless pursuit of excellence ensure that every step we take is a move in the right direction for Malaysia’s prosperity.”
Now that both Gopi and Raymond have left MDEC, their absence represents a significant loss for Malaysia.
They have set a high bar for leadership and innovation in the nation’s digital economy, and their contributions will be greatly missed.
