Dear Valued Customers,
Welcome to Our September Newsletter
As we enter the final quarter of the year, businesses across Southeast Asia and Hong Kong continue to see important developments in investment, talent, economic growth and government policy. From Singapore’s strong startup talent pool to Malaysia’s evolving investment incentives, Hong Kong’s new five-year economic roadmap and Indonesia’s steady economic expansion, these developments offer valuable insights for businesses planning their next steps in the region.
Singapore
Singapore has ranked first in ASEAN for startup talent pipeline strength and quality, supported by strong technology skills, education outcomes and founder density. Its growing talent base provides startups and expanding businesses with access to engineering, product and growth professionals, further supporting Singapore’s role as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
This strong talent environment is particularly relevant for companies considering Singapore as a base for their regional headquarters, product development or R&D operations.
Hong Kong
Hong Kong is setting out its economic direction for 2026–2030 through its First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development and the 2026 Policy Address. With annual indicators expected to track progress against the five-year blueprint, businesses will have greater visibility into the city’s development priorities and policy direction.
For companies operating in or considering expansion into Hong Kong, the five-year economic roadmap and its key policy priorities provide useful insight into the business environment ahead.
Malaysia
Malaysia’s Budget 2027 agenda places greater emphasis on high-value investments, realised projects, quality jobs and stronger local supply chains. Strategic sectors include semiconductors, artificial intelligence, digital services, energy transition, pharmaceuticals, aerospace and logistics.
SMEs and start-ups may also benefit from growth-stage financing, digitalisation support and a proposed RM10 billion guarantee facility, while the new investment priorities and outcome-based incentives provide important considerations for businesses exploring opportunities in Malaysia.
Indonesia
Indonesia’s economy grew 5.29% year-on-year in Q2 2026, supported by household consumption, investment and government spending. Gross fixed capital formation expanded 6.87%, highlighting continued investment activity, while household consumption remained the largest component of the economy.
With the government targeting full-year growth of 5.6%–6% and Bank Indonesia forecasting growth of 4.9%–5.7% for 2026, the latest economic figures, investment activity and growth outlook offer useful context for businesses considering opportunities in Indonesia.
Across the region, developments in talent, investment policy, economic growth and long-term planning continue to shape the business landscape. Staying informed about these changes can help companies assess opportunities, manage emerging considerations and make informed decisions as they plan for the future. We look forward to continuing to support our clients and business partners as they navigate these developments and pursue opportunities across the region.
Abigail Yu
Director, 3E Accounting Group
Read More in our E-Newsletter September 2026.
