Kuala Lumpur (VNA) – The Malaysian government has unveiled a new 211 million MYR (53 million USD) funding package through SME Bank under the 2025 Budget Initiative, bringing this year’s total allocation for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to over 1 billion MYR.
Speaking at the launch, Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the initiative aims to stimulate SME-driven growth and enhance economic resilience, while bolstering investor confidence.
The new funding focuses on key sectors such as technology, environmental, social and governance (ESG), tourism, and the halal industry. These efforts align with the country's energy transition roadmap and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030, supporting the MADANI economic framework.
SME Bank Acting Chairman and CEO Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim outlined five programs under the package, including support for women entrepreneurs, Bumiputera businesses, low-carbon transition, digital skills training, and startup aid for vulnerable groups.
SME Bank is targeting 3 billion MYR in approved funding for 2025 to build a future-ready MSME sector. From May 1, the bank became part of Malaysia’s broader development banking group, along with EXIM Bank and Bank Pembangunan. The consolidation is expected to enhance synergy and improve capital distribution across the national financial ecosystem.
The finance minister emphasised that streamlined operations across development financial institutions will better mobilise resources to advance national policy goals and strengthen SME competitiveness both domestically and globally./.
