In an industry where scale often overshadows soul, Henry Hari Ram has forged a path uniquely his own. As the Founder and CEO of Digital Aid Sdn Bhd (D8 Group) —one of Southeast Asia’s most respected comprehensive live event technology solution providers—Henry has cultivated more than just a company. He’s created a culture. One rooted in creativity, technical mastery, and a relentless pursuit of immersive experiences. From managing large-format music festivals like the Neon Countdown, EDC, and most recently, Songkran; to delivering sophisticated AV integration for premium nightlife venues across Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond – the D8 Group has grown into a name synonymous with trust, taste, and technical excellence.

In this candid heart-to-heart, Henry opens up about the experiences that shaped him, the philosophies that drive D8’s operations, and the ambition behind the brand’s geographic expansion. Expect insights on cutting-edge tech, investment mantras, operational resilience, and personal passions—all woven into a narrative that reflects the human side of high-end AV.

The Journey & Background

Could you take us back to the beginning? How did your journey in the live event technology and professional AV industry start?
It all started with a love for creating experiences. I was always drawn to how sound, visuals, and atmosphere could completely transform an event. Early on, I worked on a few productions—starting from scratch as a part-time crew member, pushing boxes, setting up—and I instantly got hooked. I realised this industry was the perfect mix of creativity and tech. Each event became a new challenge, a fresh opportunity for growth. From that point on, I kept going deeper into the world of AV and live events, learning everything I could, and slowly building something of my own.

What inspired you to establish Digital Aid (D8), and what was your vision for the company when you started?
D8 was born from the idea that AV is more than just equipment—it’s about bringing ideas to life. I wanted to build a team that could work hand-in-hand with event organisers to elevate their vision. The goal wasn’t just to get the job done, but to leave people impressed. From the initial concept to the final cue, we aim to be deeply involved. We share our expertise to help clients get the best possible outcome, always thinking ahead to create something unique.

Looking back, what were some of the biggest turning points or milestones that shaped D8’s success?
There were a few key moments. Landing our first big international event was a major boost. It gave us and our clients the confidence that we could outperform and shine on a global stage. Another game-changer was our decision to invest early in our systems—it was a risk, but it positioned us as innovators. Above all, the biggest factor has been our team. Having passionate, skilled, and committed people has truly shaped who we are.

Professional AV Technologies & Industry Perspective

What defines ‘cutting-edge’ live event technology today? What’s your investment philosophy—innovation, client demand, long-term ROI, or a mix?
Cutting-edge tech is whatever creates real impact—systems that make events more interactive and memorable. It’s all about balance. We always track innovation and like staying ahead of the curve, but we also listen carefully to our clients. If a piece of tech can enhance the experience while offering long-term value, we’re on board. At the end of the day, we look for systems that are reliable, scalable, and elevate our productions in all the right ways while delivering that “wow” factor—every time.

Market Expansion & Business Strategy

D8 operates across Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. What drove the decision to expand into these markets?
We saw immense potential—not just in market size but in how fast the event and entertainment industries were evolving. Each country has its own pulse – its own vibrant culture and energy – and we knew our AV expertise could make a genuine impact. Plus, many of our clients were themselves expanding regionally, so it made perfect sense from both a creative as well as a strategic standpoint.

What are the biggest challenges of operating across such diverse markets, and how do you navigate them?
Each market operates differently—different regulations, languages, cultural nuances, and business customs. The secret for us, has been building strong local teams and partnerships. We never copy-paste solutions—we take time to understand each environment and adapt accordingly. It’s about staying agile without compromising the signature D8 quality and standard.

What gives D8 its competitive edge and helps you stay ahead of the curve?
We’re always striving for better — be it in technology, creativity, or service. We don’t just rent out gear; we craft experiences. Our edge lies in our mindset and in our involvement at every stage of a project. We obsess over the details, and that doesn’t go unnoticed by clients.

What’s your take on the current live event technology market in Southeast Asia? Where are the biggest opportunities?
The market is bouncing back fast post-pandemic and evolving rapidly. Events are becoming bigger, bolder, and more immersive. Clients today want full-fledged experiences, not just basic AV. The biggest opportunities lie in marrying tech with creativity—immersive visuals, hybrid events, interactive elements. Emerging cities in the region are also stepping up their game, and there’s strong demand for high-quality production.

System Integration & Installation Business

D8 is renowned for premium installations in the nightlife sector. What’s your approach, and which projects stand out?
Every venue is a fresh canvas. Every space is different—and that’s what keeps things exciting. Projects like Lane 23, TRX, Annabel’s KL, 404 Club Not Found, and COTU Singapore each had their own distinct personality and flavour. Some were intimate, others high-octane – but all demanded a seamless blend of technology and creativity. We work with owners, designers, and architects right from the start to ensure every element—light, speaker, screen—enhances the vibe they’re going for.

One of the more challenging—but memorable—projects was Lane 23, TRX. We had to integrate high-end AV systems while dealing with tight timelines and ongoing construction. It was a logistical puzzle, but that’s where we thrive—problem-solving without compromising quality.

Managing Large-Scale Events & Partnerships

D8 has been a trusted partner for some of the biggest events in the region, including EDC and the Songkran Festival. What does it take to successfully execute such large-scale productions?
It takes an exceptional team, meticulous planning, and the ability to adapt in real-time. These events are like building mini-cities over a few days—everything from staging and sound to lighting, video and show control needs to operate flawlessly. We begin by understanding the event’s vision, then we craft a tech roadmap that ensures everything aligns. Precision, coordination, and team synergy—both internal and client-side—are essential.

Are there any particular events that stand out to you as the most technically demanding? If so, how did D8 overcome those challenges?
EDC stands out, no doubt. What made it especially challenging was that it came right after another massive production—NEON in Bangkok. We had almost no downtime. Managing cross-border logistics, crew, and gear with such a tight turnaround was intense. But we pulled through because our team is built to thrive under pressure – all without ever losing composure. Seeing everything come together in front of thousands of people made it all worthwhile.

Future Vision & Industry Evolution

How is D8 preparing for the future? Are there any upcoming innovations or projects that you’re particularly excited about?
Let’s just say we’re cooking up some next-level ideas—both for nightlife venues and large-scale events—and we’re eyeing new markets. Our aim isn’t just to adopt new technologies but to develop solutions tailored to the unique challenges and creative demands we face.

Running a company as dynamic as D8 must be both exhilarating and demanding. How do you maintain a balance between business expansion and staying true to the core values of D8? What drives you—personally and as a leader?
It’s definitely a high-energy ride, but that’s what makes it fun. As we keep growing, I make it a point to ensure we don’t drift from what made us great in the first place—quality and meaningful relationships. Keeping our DNA intact is of prime importance to us – whether it’s a massive festival or a boutique club install, it should always have that signature D8 feel.

Personally, I’m driven by two things: creating experiences that people remember and building a team that genuinely enjoys bringing those experiences to life. That moment when the crew lights up seeing everything come to life—that’s what keeps me moving forward. It’s not just about the gear—it’s about the passion, the people, and the impact we create together.