ASIA'S rise to become the engine of global economic growth has been rapid. One key trend that we are seeing from this, and also an important driver of, is the flourishing of human capital and the emergence of a new generation that is eager to start and grow businesses.

This is what I believe will further propel the growth of Asia - an increasingly educated workforce seeking out opportunities early in their careers to set up enterprises, create value and solve real problems facing society.

With Asian governments actively supporting the growth of their countries' innovation ecosystem, coupled with the region's abundant resources and favourable demographics, it is no surprise that startups and unicorns in Asia have been attracting large investment dollars from around the world.