The Asia Foundation’s Post

#SNEAKPEEK We've partnered with CyberPeace Institute through the #APACCyberFund to conduct a study on the challenges faced by #MSMEs in the #asiapacific region. As we celebrate International #MSMEDay, with the theme "Building a Stronger Future Together," it's essential to acknowledge the critical role of #cybersecurity in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of MSMEs. In the Asia-Pacific, cyber threats such as phishing, ransomware, and data breaches are significant impediments to stability and economic prosperity. For MSMEs, robust cybersecurity practices are not just a technical requirement but a foundation for sustainable growth and inclusive development. Here’s a sneak peek of THREE ways to promote a more secure online ecosystem in the APAC region: 👉Advanced Cybersecurity Practices 👉Ongoing Education and Cyber Training 👉Public-Private Partnerships and Community Engagement By investing in these areas, we can collectively build a more resilient, sustainable, and inclusive future for all MSMEs. Let's work together to safeguard our digital economy and support the vital role of MSMEs in our communities. #MSMEDay2024 #Cybersecurity #BuildingStrongerFuture #Resilience #Sustainability Global Cyber Alliance Anthea Mulakala

#SNEAKPEEK As we celebrate International #SMEDay, we recognize the vital role of women in small and medium-sized enterprises. Under the Strive Malaysia Program, we've partnered with The Centre for Research on Women & Gender (KANITA) to study the challenges Malaysian women entrepreneurs face. We identified significant barriers faced by women-led micro and small women entrepreneurs (MSWEs) in #Malaysia. 📌Time Poverty: 97% of women struggle to balance work, childcare, and household responsibilities, making Time Poverty a significant issue. 📌Digital Literacy: While 80% possess fundamental digital skills, only 60% effectively use social media for business, demonstrating the need to equip women entrepreneurs with digital literacy. 📌Financial Literacy: 78% of women require more information about financial institutions, while 68% find loan processes complicated. Thus, the need to increase knowledge of finance is emphasized. Despite the challenges women entrepreneurs face, they're resilient and motivated and receive significant support from their family members. Let's focus on bridging the digital gender divide, recognize the extra effort shown by our (super)women entrepreneurs, and work together to support and empower them. #SMEDay2024 #WomenInBusiness #WomenEntrepreneurs #MSWE #MastercardStriveMalaysia #MastercardMY #StriversHub Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth

This International #MSMEDay, our Future Skills Alliance (FSA) joins the global community in celebrating the growth and transformation of small businesses in #AsiaPacific and the people and partners who make it happen. Follow this space as we celebrate MSMEDay and learn all our our FSA projects on our The Future of Work showcase!

Exciting career opportunity in Mongolia! We are seeking a seasoned Project Manager for its USAID-funded Media and Civil Society Strengthening project. This role offers the chance to enhance democratic governance in Mongolia by empowering civil society and media sectors. Want to make an impact? Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/g5kKsY9v

Our recent survey with the BRAC Institute of Governance and Development (BIGD) reveals a steep decline in public optimism regarding #Bangladesh's #economy and #politics. The 2024 Citizens’ Perception Survey, which polled 6,510 adults across 64 districts, highlights: 🔻 Economic optimism among lower-income groups dropped from 84% in 2019 to 42% in 2024. 🔻 58% of respondents believe Bangladesh is heading in the wrong direction politically, socially, and economically. 🔻 Price hikes are the top concern for 95% of the population, followed by unemployment, corruption, and economic downturns. Full report available on our website by July 2024. Read more: https://bit.ly/4bbXsX0

How can international organizations better support #peacebuilding in #Myanmar? Our latest study, "International Peace Support and Effective Peacebuilding in Myanmar," explores several ways, including: ▶️ Engaging with local communities and leaders in ethnic regions. ▶️ Addressing gendered power imbalances. ▶️ Recognizing varied and unpredictable paths to peace. ▶️ Collaborating with Myanmar's neighbors. ▶️ Learning from past successes and failures to improve the effectiveness of foreign aid and peace efforts. Read more here, available in English and Burmese: https://lnkd.in/grNMHUX9