Screenshots of the ASEAN SOAR Together online capacity-building sessions featuring multiple participants and guest speakers in a virtual meeting grid. The event is supported by TikTok Shop, in partnership with ASEAN-BAC Malaysia 2025, and organised by the ASEAN Foundation.
The ASEAN Foundation, in collaboration with TikTok Shop and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), continued its commitment to support MSMEs across the region with the ASEAN SOAR Together programme. In July 2025, the programme kicked off with the Online Capacity-building Phase, which has trained over 50 MSMEs across all ASEAN Member States to address the challenges of today’s digital marketplace.
Ten focused sessions were held covering a wide range of topics required to thrive in the contemporary commerce landscape. The MSMEs were involved in hands-on sessions on digital business strategies, which included product marketing techniques, online merchandising practices, and brand communications. On the other hand, they touched upon creative content creation, such as producing “hot deal” videos and hosting an ideal livestream whilst maximising online tools available. This Capacity-building Phase also involved optimising social media traffic and navigating TikTok’s content policies to contribute to a safer media-selling platform for the region.
Subsequently between August 11th – September 13th, the MSMEs jumped on the Business Challenge Phase, where they reapplied their knowledge into practice by setting up a TikTok Shop account and utilising its features that enable a seamless online business operation. Throughout the challenge, the ASEAN Foundation and TikTok Shop fostered an inclusive digital e-commerce learning experience that equipped MSMEs with the tools and guidance needed for a smooth live-selling experience. By the end of 2025, at least 80% of participants, with a focus on women and youth, are expected to demonstrate notable improvements in digital maturity, enabling them to compete more effectively in the global marketplace.
Ultimately, the ASEAN SOAR Together programme aims to reinforce regional and global priorities, which contributes to the greater vision of the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for SME Development 2016–2025 and the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint 2025. By equipping MSMEs in the region with the essential skillsets, ASEAN SOAR Together aims to uphold all UN Sustainable Development Goals by empowering growing enterprises.
Looking ahead, the programme aims to expand its impact by providing top-performing MSME with more opportunities in upcoming ASEAN-related events, showcasing their business and building cross-border relationships with global leaders, expert policymakers, and regional stakeholders. Powered by TikTok Shop, ASEAN SOAR Together will continue to drive positive economic impacts and advancements across Southeast Asia in building an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient community.