By Sheeda Fathil
SHAH ALAM, Aug 25 — The state government has implemented various initiatives to empower Malay traders, including support for digitalisation and marketing through the Selangor Platform (PLATS).
State executive councillor for entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi said the administration also offers the i-Bisnes and Niaga Darul Ehsan schemes under Yayasan Hijrah Selangor for traders looking to expand their businesses or in need of working capital.
Additionally, the Selangor Madani Entrepreneur Fund (DUMS) provides business equipment grants worth up to RM30,000.
“We also offer numerous licensed business locations such as night markets, Ramadan and Raya bazaars, weekend-specific sites, and areas in town squares or recreational spaces.
“Hawkers are given opportunities to do business at hundreds of approved bazaar locations each season, with Malay traders being the primary beneficiaries,” he told Media Selangor.
Najwan was commenting on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's recent statement urging local authorities and state governments not to neglect the interests of small traders and Malay hawkers in urban areas.
Anwar said the strength of a city lies not only in its development but also in how local authorities enhance basic facilities for small traders.
Commenting further, Najwan said the state administration has also introduced the Speed Selangor policy to accelerate business approvals at the local authority level.
“This initiative includes PLATS Masuk Bazar roadshows and the Madani Hawker Digital Grant tour, ensuring traditional hawkers are not left behind in the digital economy,” he said.
