🔍 TikTok-Tokopedia deal under fire. 💰 Grab’s US$1.25B bond move. 🧬 Healthcare clinics on the rise.
Dear subscribers,
We're back with the latest headlines shaping the digital and startup ecosystem in Indonesia and Southeast Asia. This week, we're tracking strategic moves in transport electrification, regulatory tensions in e-commerce, and the growing momentum in healthcare services.
From Gojek's electric mobility launch with Green SM, TikTok's clash with Indonesia’s competition watchdog, to the expansion of digital-first clinics across Jakarta—here’s what you need to know.
Let’s dive in.
Best regards,
The DailySocial Team
🚨 What's New
Green SM and Gojek have officially rolled out GoGreen SM, an all-electric taxi service integrated within the Gojek app. This strategic move supports Indonesia’s net-zero emissions goals while expanding access to clean urban mobility. Backed by Gojek’s extensive user base and EV track record, the partnership aims to accelerate sustainable transportation and economic growth in major cities. [Read More]
GoGreen SM launch event in Jakarta / Doc. Gojek Following its acquisition of 75.01% of Tokopedia, TikTok is under investigation by Indonesia’s antitrust agency (KPPU) for potential monopolistic practices. The agency raised concerns over market concentration and network effects hurting SMEs and consumers. TikTok has agreed to most regulatory conditions—such as fair logistics access and cross-platform promotions—but requested revisions to reporting frequency and language. Next hearing: June 17, 2025. [Read More]
Both Grab and GoTo have formally denied ongoing rumors about a potential US$7 billion acquisition, as reported by Bloomberg. The speculation, which also named Indonesia’s SWF Danantara as a backer, was dismissed by all parties involved. Both tech giants emphasized that there are no negotiations or transactions underway and that operations remain unaffected. [Read More]
👏 What's Exciting
Lifull Connect has formed SEA Connect Ventures to consolidate its proptech operations across Southeast Asia. This follows its acquisition of Digital Classifieds Group (DCG) assets, including Lamudi Indonesia and Philippines. The new entity integrates portals like Realestate.com.kh, Hipflat, and FazWaz, giving Lifull a dominant footprint across markets with over 600 million population coverage.
Lifull Connect proptech ecosystem / Doc. Lifull Grab is issuing US$1.25 billion in senior convertible bonds due in 2030 to support M&A activities, operations, and share buybacks. The bonds are convertible to Class A shares and target non-U.S. institutional investors under Regulation S. The move enhances financial flexibility for future expansion.
Fintech unit Atome, part of Advance Intelligence Group, landed a US$75M asset-backed facility from Lending Ark. The funding will support responsible credit expansion and financial inclusion in the Philippines. Atome previously received financing from BlackRock, InnoVen Capital, and EvolutionX, following a strong FY2024 with 45% revenue growth.
CARSOME continued its profitability streak with Q1 EBITDA of US$4.3 million. Gross profit rose 12% YoY, driven by better pricing and sourcing. The company is building a stronger ecosystem via partnerships with JACCS for financing and Petronas AutoExpert for aftersales.
🚀 What’s Next: Clinic-Chain Growth in Big Cities Signals New Era for Healthtech
Healthtech startup Diri Care recently announced plans to expand its skin and dental clinic network across Greater Jakarta. Backed by East Ventures, the company adopts a tech-enabled approach to deliver accessible and affordable care for urban consumers. This move reflects a broader trend where digital health players are exploring hybrid models—blending physical infrastructure with digital interfaces—to scale more efficiently and meet rising demand for personalized, recurring healthcare services.
Over the past five years, clinics—including general, dental, and aesthetic—have grown significantly in Jakarta and surrounding areas. Data shows that primary clinics in Jakarta increased from around 1,000 in 2020 to 1,600 in 2025. Dental clinics rose from 300 to 400, while aesthetic clinics nearly doubled from 800 to 1,500–1,600.
A similar pattern is seen in Bodetabek, with aesthetic clinics growing from 900 to 1,800. This growth signals a shift in consumer behavior—where preventive care, cosmetic treatments, and convenience-driven services are becoming part of mainstream lifestyle spending.
Digital adoption is a key driver behind this expansion. Players like Diri Care offer online booking, virtual consultations, and subscription-based service models. Compared to hospitals, clinics operate with lower capex and offer attractive unit economics for recurring services like dental care, diagnostics, and wellness. With clearer regulatory frameworks and growing investor interest, the clinic segment is well-positioned to become a core pillar of Indonesia’s next-generation healthcare investment landscape.
In addition to Diri Care, several VC-backed healthcare businesses are also expanding their presence through clinic-chain strategies, including Orange Dental, Rata, Satu Dental, and KLAR.