Empires - An Asian Business Podcast

Grab (MY/SG) | Up for Grabs | 2/5

Sep 25, 2023
In this engaging discussion, Anthony Tan, Co-founder and CEO of Grab, shares his inspiring journey from a young entrepreneur overcoming family hurdles to leading a multi-billion dollar super app. He reveals how Grab transitioned from a simple taxi app in Malaysia to dominating the ride-hailing market and achieving record-breaking valuations. Tan candidly discusses the fierce rivalry with Uber and how strategic investments paved the way for Grab’s unprecedented growth, emphasizing the company's significance in Southeast Asia's digital landscape.
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ANECDOTE

Tan Yuet-Fo's Persistence

  • Tan Yuet-Fo, Anthony Tan's grandfather, waited 14 hours in the rain to pitch to Nissan's president.
  • This persistence secured Nissan's dealership, laying the foundation for Tan Chong Motors.
ANECDOTE

MyTeksi's Genesis

  • Anthony Tan, inspired by his co-founder Tan Hooi Ling's negative taxi experiences, co-founded MyTeksi (later Grab).
  • Early challenges included low smartphone and internet penetration in Malaysia.
ANECDOTE

Early Partnerships and Challenges

  • Anthony's family disowned him for pursuing Grab, but his mother offered financial support.
  • He secured a partnership with Datuk Asla Abdullah, owner of a large taxi fleet.
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