An Exclusive Invitation to a Defining Moment in History

SEBA ASEAN 2026 Opens Nominations, Setting a New Benchmark for Entrepreneurial and Enterprise Recognition Across Southeast Asia

Beyond Recognition. Towards Regional Influence.

Southeast Asia’s leading business recognition platform returns with a renewed mandate to spotlight enterprises, entrepreneurs and industry leaders shaping ASEAN’s next decade of growth

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – SEBA ASEAN 2026 has officially opened nominations, marking a significant new chapter for one of Southeast Asia’s most established platforms for business recognition, entrepreneurial excellence and regional enterprise visibility.

As ASEAN continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s most dynamic economic regions, SEBA ASEAN 2026 arrives at a defining moment for entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporations and industry leaders seeking to move beyond domestic recognition and establish greater influence across the region.

The region continues to demonstrate strong economic momentum. ASEAN attracted approximately US$226 billion in foreign direct investment inflows in 2024, while growing intra-regional trade, accelerating digital transformation and expanding cross-border enterprise activity continue to reshape how businesses scale throughout Southeast Asia.

At the same time, ASEAN’s digital economy is projected to surpass US$300 billion in gross merchandise value by 2025, underscoring the increasing importance of innovation, technology adoption and market connectivity in driving sustainable business growth across the region.

Against this backdrop, SEBA ASEAN 2026 is positioned not merely as an awards programme, but as a strategic recognition platform that helps businesses strengthen credibility, enhance visibility and build meaningful connections throughout ASEAN.

Over the years, SEBA has evolved into a benchmark of excellence for entrepreneurs and enterprises that demonstrate leadership, resilience, innovation, sustainability and measurable business impact. The platform has recognised organisations across diverse industries and continues to serve as a trusted avenue for businesses seeking validation among peers, stakeholders, investors, partners and the wider marketplace.

Carrying the theme “Beyond Recognition. Towards Regional Influence.”, SEBA ASEAN 2026 reflects the changing role of business recognition in today’s competitive environment. Recognition is no longer solely about celebrating achievement; it has become a powerful tool for strengthening reputation, enhancing market positioning, building stakeholder confidence and supporting long-term growth.

“Business recognition today carries far greater meaning than it did a decade ago,” said Datuk Nitesh Malani, Chairman of Yayasan Usahawan Malaysia and Founder of SEBA. “It is no longer simply about celebrating achievements. It is about creating trust, opening doors, building influence and connecting businesses to new possibilities. SEBA ASEAN 2026 reflects this evolution by providing a platform that not only honours excellence, but also helps businesses position themselves for future growth across ASEAN.”

SEBA ASEAN 2026 will bring together entrepreneurs, founders, SMEs, corporations, business owners, industry leaders, innovators and changemakers from across Southeast Asia. The platform aims to recognise organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance, visionary leadership, adaptability, innovation and the ability to create sustainable value within their industries and communities.

As Southeast Asia moves deeper into an era shaped by digitalisation, sustainability, evolving consumer expectations, regional supply chain shifts and new investment flows, SEBA ASEAN 2026 seeks to highlight the enterprises and leaders setting the pace for the future of business.

The awards will spotlight not only business achievements and growth, but also the stories behind that success—the entrepreneurs who have overcome challenges, the leaders transforming industries, and the organisations creating employment opportunities, strengthening communities and contributing to ASEAN’s broader economic development.

Beyond recognition, SEBA ASEAN 2026 also reinforces its role as a platform for meaningful connections, strategic networking and cross-border collaboration. By bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors and ecosystem partners from across the region, the platform creates opportunities for knowledge exchange, partnerships and future growth.

As ASEAN’s business landscape continues to evolve, SEBA ASEAN 2026 aims to celebrate those who are not only achieving success today, but also shaping the region’s economic future through innovation, leadership and sustainable impact.

Nominations for SEBA ASEAN 2026 are now open. Businesses, entrepreneurs and organisations across Southeast Asia are invited to participate and be recognised among the region’s most influential and forward-looking enterprises.