SME Bank Malaysia Berhad has commended introducing 10 strategic initiatives valued at RM1.17 billion, as part of the National Budget 2025 presented by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. These measures showcase the Government’s commitment to bolstering economic resilience and fostering sustainable, inclusive growth.
Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group President/CEO of SME Bank, expressed support for the RM421 billion Budget 2025, emphasising that it reflects the Madani Government’s focus on building a resilient nation.
The budget outlines various measures aimed at boosting the broader economy, with a particular focus on key affirmative segments.
“We commend the government’s commitment to empowering SMEs through the continuation of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) funds, alongside guarantee schemes managed by Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Berhad in key areas such as Bumiputera businesses, High Technology, ESG, Halal, and Tourism sectors.
“These growth areas align with the Government’s forward-looking objectives,” said Dr. Mohammad Hardee.
He also highlighted the Bank’s role in implementing the 10 initiatives, stating, “The RM1.17 billion allocated to SME Bank strengthens our mandate to deliver comprehensive financing solutions across the MSME ecosystem.
“Our focus on Technology, Tourism, Halal, and ESG-driven sectors—along with affirmative segments like women entrepreneurs—underscores our commitment to driving sustainable economic growth.”
These initiatives align with SME Bank’s long-term strategies, including the BNM Performance Measurement Framework (PMF), which highlights the importance of Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) in promoting developmental impact.
SME Bank’s RM400 million financing for MSMEs embracing technology transformation and RM200 million to support Bumiputera MSMEs expanding regionally are part of this broader agenda.
In line with the government’s focus, SME Bank will also provide RM200 million to reinvigorate the Tourism sector, RM100 million to empower women entrepreneurs, RM100 million to stimulate ESG activities, and RM100 million to drive growth in the Halal segment. Additionally, RM50 million will be allocated to support Bumiputera start-ups, with RM15 million dedicated to developing social enterprises.
Since its founding in 2005, SME Bank has played a pivotal role in Malaysia’s economic growth, disbursing over RM45 billion in financing to more than 24,000 MSMEs. Through its capacity-building arm, CEDAR, the Bank has also supported over 82,000 entrepreneurs in their development.
Entrepreneurs interested in financing solutions or development programmes can contact SME Bank’s Customer Call Centre at 03-2603 7700 or visit www.smebank.com.my.
