SHAH ALAM, May 20 — SME Corporation Malaysia will strengthen financing and scale-up initiatives in 2026 to help develop micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly in improving competitiveness, business growth, and market expansion.
Its development and technology adaptation sector representative Zubaidah Mohamad said its initiatives will focus not only on financing assistance but also on capacity building, business development, and market access support to help local businesses strengthen their operations and long-term sustainability.
Among the key programmes highlighted were Prestige 2.0, PKS Bursa, PMKS Access, BRAVE, Skill Up, and the Next Level CEO initiative, which aim to support companies through financing, leadership development, capacity building, and preparation for expansion into larger and international markets.
"Several financing initiatives offered soft loan facilities and business funding support, particularly for Bumiputera-owned companies and businesses looking to strengthen ESG governance or prepare for entry into capital markets.
"Prestige 2.0 now places stronger emphasis on financing support, market access, and capacity building for companies in high-growth and high-value sectors through collaborations with strategic partners, including Funding Societies," she said during the ‘Invest Selangor Update Series: Insights into the Latest Opportunities for SMEs & MTCs’ programme today.
Zubaidah added that the Skill Up initiative will continue supporting companies through matching grants, particularly for businesses in the semiconductor and health technology sectors, while the Next Level CEO programme focuses on upskilling SME owners and senior management.
The programme is conducted in collaboration with institutions, including the Asia School of Business and Harvard University, to strengthen leadership, strategic planning, and business capabilities among local entrepreneurs.
She highlighted efforts to support youth and startup entrepreneurs through programmes such as Tunas Usahawan Belia Bumiputera and GROWBiz, which focus on entrepreneurship development, training, and business expansion.
Meanwhile, the Global Value Chain initiative is expected to help SMEs from high-growth sectors enter international markets through planned business matching programmes.
"Companies with official MSME status and strong performance ratings would have greater opportunities to participate in export-focused and expansion programmes aimed at improving competitiveness and sustainability," Zubaidah said.
On its part, SME Corp Malaysia said announcements and updates on its programmes and initiatives would continue to be shared through its official website and social media platforms.
