KUALA LUMPUR (March 28): Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) has launched the fourth edition of its accelerator programme, FutureTech 4.0. The programme aims to scale innovative solutions that address real-world industry challenges and redefine the future of energy.

The national oil and gas company said the new edition, which is now open for applications, will focus on driving innovation and sustainability across three key categories — industry and work, energy, and chemicals and materials.

“Twenty shortlisted startups will undergo a 12-week accelerator programme, gaining access to masterclasses, tailored workshops, and one-on-one mentorship and coaching. The programme will also provide business immersion with strategic partners, access to networks, new markets, and funding opportunities, as well as pilot and test-bedding initiatives to support the scaling of their startups,” it said in a statement.

The programme will begin with Immersion Week, which coincides with Energy Asia this June and will culminate in a Demo Day at the end of August 2025.

It added that during Demo Day, startups will present their solutions to C-suite executives from Petronas and its corporate partners, as well as investors and potential collaborators.

Petronas senior vice-president of corporate strategy Marina Md Taib said that through FutureTech 4.0, Petronas aims to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship while nurturing a robust tech-driven startup ecosystem in Malaysia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

“The programme offers startups a platform to develop solutions that address industry challenges and unlock new growth opportunities while contributing to long-term socio-economic transformation. With the support of our corporate partners, startups will have the opportunity to validate their innovations, scale their solutions, and make a meaningful impact towards energy transition efforts,” she said.

Meanwhile, the company noted that “the past three cohorts had attracted over 900 applicants and supported the growth of 65 startups.”

The programme will also receive support from key startup ecosystem partners, including Malaysia’s Cradle Fund, Singapore’s SGInnovate and the Japan External Trade Organisation.

Uploaded by Lam Seng Fatt