KUALA LUMPUR: SME Bank Malaysia will continue to empower micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and and drive economic growth that is inclusive and sustainable.

To date, the bank had supported over 23,880 MSMEs, providing them with financial assistance exceeding RM47 billion, said chief executive officer Datuk Aria Putera Ismail said.

SME Bank said it also remains committed to ethical practices as it works towards progress, institutional reform and societal harmony.

"Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan had recently said that government-owned companies, particularly government-linked investment companies (GLIC) and government-linked companies (GLC), serve not only as instruments for commercial and investment objectives but also as agents of social responsibility. 

"With a mandate to support the country's economic growth and empower its citizens, he said these entities are integral to building a better Malaysia together," it said.

Aria Putera said it will continue to fulfill its mandated role in developing and propelling MSME growth and raise both the ceiling and floor of dedicated initiatives in contributing to the realisation of 'Ekonomi Madani'.

He also noted that with a commitment to inclusivity, SME Bank offers tailored entrepreneur development programmes and support services to both served and underserved MSMEs.

Operating with a proactive and reactive mandate, the bank remains agile in addressing the evolving needs of MSMEs at different stages of their business, ensuring that its initiatives remain responsive and impactful.

The bank said it had spearheaded transformative initiatives to broaden access for Bumiputera MSMEs to financial resources and global opportunities. 

This includes facilitating beyond-borders endeavors such as the acclaimed business-matching programme, SME Bank XCESS, the Business Exports Programme and the Vendor Capacity and Capability Development Programme. 

SME Bank has also spearheaded impactful community programmes such as iTEKAD Ishraf and iTEKAD Penjana Komuniti, aimed at empowering underprivileged entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable community development.

https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2024/04/1044482/sme-bank-dishes-out-rm47bil-empower-msmes