Lazada CEO warns against ‘walled garden super app’ in tech


While Lazada has largely focused on online shopping, South-East Asian peers such as Grab Holdings Ltd and GoTo have expanded their apps to encompass everything from e-commerce and ride-hailing to banking. — AFP Relaxnews

Chun Li, who presides over Alibaba Group Holding Ltd’s South-East Asian unit Lazada, said digital companies in the region should steer away from creating walled-garden super apps in favour of more collaboration and differentiation.

“We should work together to build an open network in this digital economy, not a walled-garden super application or platform,” Li said in his keynote speech at Singapore Apex Business Summit on Tuesday, referring to lessons he learned from his experience in the US and China. “All players should focus on what they do best.”

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Others Also Read


All Headlines:

Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a member? Log In