KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 3 — The Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry (Kuskop) has pledged to support the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), ensuring facilitation in various aspects, including funding access.
Its deputy Minister Datuk R. Ramanan said they have identified the critical issues faced by SMEs which require government attention, following a discussion with the Malaysian Indian Muslim Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Mimcoin).
"I have heard about the problems faced by the SMEs in detail. This includes aspects of development, financial assistance, infrastructure, and networking," he said at a press conference after officiating the 4th SME Congress organised by Mimcoin today.
Ramanan believes the Madani government via various agencies like SME Corp, Bank Rakyat, and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia will be able to assist the SMEs in terms of financial financing, entrepreneurial guidance, matching grants, and networking.
Regarding his dialogue with Mimcoin on the challenges encountered by SMEs, the minister is hopeful the chamber will serve as a bridge between Kuskop and SME stakeholders, facilitating the resolution of any issues.
"There are over 1,000 SMEs under Mimcoin. So, if possible, it can be a spokesperson for them (SME entrepreneurs) to forward their issues to the ministry and related agencies," he said.
Earlier in his speech, Ramanan said the SME Congress serves as the best platform for disseminating knowledge on entrepreneurship, motivation, and enhancing networking among industry players in the SME sector.
Also present were the Economic Club of Kuala Lumpur chairman Datuk Seri Mohd Iqbal Rawther, Mimcoin president Datuk Jamarulkan M.S Kadir, and the 4th SME Congress organising chairman Datuk Abdul Hamid P.V Abdu.
— Bernama
