Experienced U.S. Entrepreneur Continues to Inspire Young Entrepreneurs in Malaysia at GIST and INCEIF

Dr. Harry Harris addressing the GIST Startup Bootcamp participants. (U.S. Embassy photo)

Dr. Harry Harris leading a discussion with INCEIF post graduate students. (U.S. Embassy photo)

On April 23, Dr. Harry Harris , an experience entrepreneur and founder of HealthCare California delivered  the keynote address  at the Global Innovation Through Science and Technology (GIST) Startup Boot Camp Malaysia to a packed auditorium of 120 budding entrepreneurs. Addressing the subject of the “Entrepreneurship Ecosystem in Developing Countries-Opportunities and Challenges”, he emphasized that the growth of small businesses is critical to a robust global economy and plays a key role in its recovery.  He emphasized that small businesses are vital to spurring job growth and boosting innovation.  An entrepreneur needs to be constantly innovative to stay ahead of the competition.  Dr. Harris, who is a seasoned entrepreneur, shared his thoughts and personal experiences relating to development of his business. His dynamic and energizing speech encouraged young Malaysian entrepreneurs to take the initiative in making a difference in their society and communities.

Global Innovation Through Science and Technology (GIST) Startup Bootcamp in Malaysia is funded by the U.S. government through CRDF Global, an independent nonprofit organization that promotes international scientific and technical collaboration, established by National Science Foundation.  The bootcamp is a two-day interactive training and mentoring event designed to spark innovative thinking among young entrepreneurs.  It was officiated by Dato’ Saifuddin Abdullah, the Deputy Minister of Ministry of Higher Education & Global Entrepreneurship Week 2012 Malaysia Patron.

In a separate event , Dr. Harry Harris led a lively discussion with a group of 25 post-graduate students and faculty members in a seminar at the International Center of Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF).  He spoke of President Obama’s initiatives in underscoring the importance of entrepreneurship.   Dr. Harris highlighted American Jobs Act, one of President Obama’s recent initiatives, which is aimed at easing entrepreneurs’ access to business information and advice, as well as fostering innovation and job creation by improving linkages between the public and private sectors.  He added that it is essential for the government to provide support for entrepreneurs who wish to set up a new business or developing an existing business.  Following the discussion, Dr. Harris answered many questions from both students and faculty members on various aspects of the global economy and how to address cultural differences in the business world.