MIA AFT 2026 REFRAMES ACCOUNTANTS AS “FINANCIAL ARCHITECTS”, LAUNCHES SECOND MIA DIGITAL TECH AWARD

MIA President Saniza Said (centre), together with MIA Vice President Ahmad Syahazan Yaacob (left), MIA CEO G Shanmugam (right), Dr Nurmazilah Dato' Mahzan, Chair of MIA Digital Tech Award Task Force (left) and Rasmimi Ramli, MIA Executive Director of Sustainability, Digital Economy & Services (right) at the launch of the MIA Accounting & Financial Technology Showcase (MIA AFT) 2026 and MIA Digital Tech Award.

KUALA LUMPUR, April 8 (Bernama) -- Now in its third edition, the MIA Accounting & Financial Technology Showcase (MIA AFT) 2026, organised by the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA), advocates the adoption of digital technologies by the accountancy profession, supporting the profession’s evolution as financial architects of impact in the digital economy. 

“Our goal is to enhance productivity, strengthen resilience, and future-proof the profession in an era of rapid technological change. Guided by the MIA Digital Technology Blueprint, MIA AFT serves as a one-stop platform for professionals and organisations to discover cutting-edge digital solutions that address evolving business and regulatory needs,” said MIA President Puan Saniza Said.

Themed “Financial Architects of Impact: Humanising Digital Intelligence,” MIA AFT 2026 showcases how accountants are evolving from adopting technology to adapting with it for optimised performance and value creation. As organisations increasingly rely on Artificial Intelligence (AI), automation and advanced analytics, accountants play a critical role in translating vast amounts of complex data into actionable insights that drive better decisions and organisational resilience.

To encourage greater adoption and highlight the profession’s role models for transformation, MIA also launched the second edition of the MIA Digital Tech Award at the MIA AFT 2026. First introduced in 2023 as the Digital Technology Adoption Award (DTAA), the award has since been rebranded as the MIA Digital Tech Award to better reflect its broader focus on digital transformation. The award recognises outstanding digital transformation initiatives across public practice, commerce and industry, and the public sector. Applications are open until 9 July 2026, with a new category introduced for Institutions of Higher Learning to support the development of future-ready talent.

Supporting the theme of humanising digital intelligence, MIA AFT delegates explored emerging technologies and solutions encompassing AI, automation, data analytics, blockchain and cloud computing across three content theatres and a curated exhibition featuring live demonstrations. Participants gained practical insights into how these innovations are reshaping finance functions and enabling value creation.

In line with the theme “Financial Architects of Impact: Humanising Digital Intelligence,” MIA AFT 2026 also highlighted responsible innovation premised on the profession’s core pillars of ethics, professional judgement and accountability to deliver trusted and sustainable outcomes. True to MIA’s strategic collaborative leadership approach, MIA AFT gathered close to 2,000 delegates from finance and industry and 30 technology providers at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

“MIA AFT continues to play a vital role in supporting accountancy professionals as they navigate the evolving digital economy. Through platforms like this, we aim to ensure our members remain futureready, relevant and resilient,” said MIA Chief Executive Officer Mr G Shanmugam.

“Amid challenging times, our profession must look ahead while safeguarding trust, integrity and professionalism as our tools, technologies and business models continue to evolve. As accountants, we are architects of impact, helping to shape sustainable and resilient futures for our businesses, our communities and our nation,” he added. 

About the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA)
Established under the Accountants Act 1967, MIA is the national accountancy body that regulates, develops, supports and enhances the integrity, reputation and interests of the profession in Malaysia, for the public interest. MIA accords the Chartered Accountant Malaysia or “C.A. (M)” designation. Powered by collaborative leadership, MIA connects its membership to a wide range of information resources, strategic platforms, professional development and networking opportunities. Presently, there are more than 41,000 members making an impact in organisations locally, regionally and globally. 

Recognised as the voice of the profession, MIA’s international outlook and connections are reflected in its membership of regional and international professional organisations such as the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and the ASEAN Federation of Accountants (AFA). For more information on MIA, visit www.mia.org.my 

SOURCE: Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

MIA STRATEGY COMMUNICATIONS & BRANDING
Email: communications@mia.org.my

Name: THANE MEYYAPPAN 
Tel: +60122489534

Name: MOHD FAIZ OTHMAN
Tel: +60126225027 

--BERNAMA

CIMB to double down on ASEAN’s growing affluent wealth segment in line with Forward30 strategy

KUALA LUMPUR, April 7 (Bernama) -- CIMB Group Holdings Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Group”) is committed to expand its presence in ASEAN’s fast-growing affluent and wealth segment, as part of its Forward30 strategy, to strengthen its cash and deposit franchise and deepen cross-sell opportunities across the Group. 

ASEAN’s affluent segment is expected to grow by 5%-6% per annum to 65%-70% of its total population by 2030. CIMB sees a significant opportunity to tap into this segment with holistic wealth, advisory and banking solutions while building deeper primary banking relationships.

The Group’s wealth proposition is anchored on an advisory-led, insight-driven approach designed to safeguard and grow client’s wealth through a comprehensive, digitally enabled, and personalised experience. Today, affluent customers expect their banking partners to journey with them through financial lifecycles, including navigating market complexities, adjusting investment strategies as priorities shift, and aligning portfolios to their unique risk profiles and long-term objectives. 

To deliver these, CIMB has invested significantly in deeper, insight-driven portfolio reviews, curated wealth events and market intelligence that is supported by a dedicated Chief Investment Office (“CIO”) and personalised Relationship Manager advisory, equipped with a product suite of wealth management across Conventional and Islamic banking. At the same time, CIMB has strengthened its digital capabilities to equip frontliners with better AI enabled tools and proprietary insights, provided customers with access to track their portfolios in real-time, access to CIO content, asset allocation and product recommendations. Beyond advisory and digital enhancements, CIMB is further expanding its value proposition through strategic partnerships that extend its suite of wealth, protection and legacy solutions ensuring customers gain access to a broader, more specialised set of offerings aligned to their ambitions.

The Group’s strong presence in Singapore serves as a key ASEAN wealth hub for affluent customers’ growing demands for cross border and global investment propositions particularly around health, retirement and education. CIMB Singapore also provides a treasury base for multinational and regional firms seeking seamless cross-border financing or looking to scale in the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (“JS-SEZ”).

Haniz Nazlan, Chief Executive Officer, Group Consumer Banking at CIMB said, “Across ASEAN, the affluent population is growing at a robust pace, driven by rising incomes, entrepreneurship and intergenerational wealth creation, and their financial needs are becoming increasingly sophisticated. CIMB aims to deepen relationships with high-value clients through an integrated offering spanning wealth management, deposits, financing and investment advisory. With its strong presence and retail franchise across key ASEAN markets, CIMB comes from a position of strength and is well-positioned to capture the growth in the affluent wealth segment. Our ambition is to grow our Wealth Asset Under Management (“AUM”) two-fold and deliver stronger wealth and cross-sell revenue by 2030, enabling us to sustain a Non-Interest Income (“NOII”) contribution between 33%-34%.” 

Clear Link to Forward30 

Expansion into affluent wealth forms a key pillar of CIMB’s Forward30 ambition to grow its cash and deposits franchise, which provides a stable funding base while enabling the Group to deliver higher-value cross-selling across investment products, lending and advisory services. As at Dec25, the Group’s cash strategy continues to demonstrate positive results. Total deposits and current account saving account (“CASA”) balances grew by 5.4% YoY to RM524.4 billion and 1.6% YoY to RM224.1 billion respectively on a constant currency basis, bringing the Group’s CASA ratio to 42.7%. 

Strengthening CIMB’s Regional Wealth Platform
 
In January 2026, the Group launched CIMB Private Wealth in Indonesia, and this will be followed by Malaysia in mid-2026 and other markets during the year - further strengthening the Group’s regional wealth management ambition. Islamic wealth markets like Indonesia and Malaysia continue to outpace the conventional segment. Indonesia remains one of ASEAN’s most attractive long-term wealth markets, supported by strong economic fundamentals, a rapidly expanding middle and upper-income segment, and rising demand for professional wealth advisory. By enhancing its wealth capabilities in Indonesia, CIMB aims to capture this structural growth while strengthening customer engagement and expanding fee-based income streams.

Lani Darmawan, President Director and Chief Executive Officer, PT Bank CIMB Niaga Tbk said, “Indonesia remains a structurally attractive market over the medium to long-term, particularly in the affluent segment where wealth creation continues to outpace regional averages. Our strategy is to scale selectively, prioritising profitability, capital discipline and client quality over volume growth. The launch of CIMB Private Wealth is a strategic initiative for CIMB Niaga to support customers in building sustainable wealth.”

“CIMB Private Wealth is designed to meet the needs of high net-worth customers with a total combined balance starting from IDR 5 billion (RM1.2 million), in managing and growing their wealth optimally, not only to achieve growth but also to create meaningful legacies for future generations. This aligns with our purpose of Advancing Customers and Society, which reflects our commitment to helping customers and the Indonesian community realise their dreams and aspirations, including in wealth management.”

Building a Stronger Deposit and Fee Income Engine 

The Group expects its expanded wealth proposition to support multiple strategic objectives under Forward30, including deepening primary banking relationships with affluent and high-net-worth clients, strengthening deposit growth thus supporting a resilient funding base, increasing feebased income through investment and advisory products and enhancing cross-sell across financing, investments, legacy and protection solutions. CIMB believes ASEAN’s wealth landscape remains structurally underpenetrated, creating a significant opportunity for regional banks with strong local networks and advisory capabilities. With its presence across key ASEAN markets, CIMB is well-positioned to capture this growth while strengthening its customer franchise and delivering sustainable long-term value. 

About CIMB

CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM89.0 billion as at 31 December 2025. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present across ASEAN in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines. 

Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 576 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 31 December 2025. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its awardwinning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 91.45% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.83% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand. 

SOURCE: CIMB Group Holdings Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Tammy Toh/Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: tammy.toh@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com 

--BERNAMA

UOB Malaysia and PAAB launch Vendor Financing Programme to strengthen water infrastructure supply chain

(From left to right): Mr Atish Rahman, Head of Financial Institutions Group, UOB Malaysia, Mr Lucas Chew, Country Head of Transaction Banking, UOB Malaysia, Mr Andy Cheah, Country Head of Wholesale Banking, UOB Malaysia, Puan Zaleha Abdul Hamid, Chief Financial Officer, Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB), Ir. Abdul Samad Sulaiman, Chief Operating Officer, PAAB, at the launch of the Vendor Financing Programme  (VFP) between UOB Malaysia and PAAB.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 6 (Bernama) -- UOB Malaysia and Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad (PAAB), a wholly owned company of the Minister of Finance (Incorporated), today launched the UOB-PAAB Vendor Financing Programme (the Programme), aimed at improving financing access for suppliers and vendors across PAAB’s supply chain ecosystem. In line with the launch of the Programme, the Bank is providing financing for PAAB’s vendors participating in the Supplier-Financing Irrevocable Payment Undertaking (SF-IPU) facility.

Under the Programme, vendors who are mostly SMEs, are better positioned to secure financing, supporting their appointment to new projects. It also offers a simplified post‑shipment financing facility. Anchored on PAAB’s project payment undertaking, the Programme offers competitive, non‑recourse funding to help vendors better manage their cash flow, reduce financial constrain and maintain operational continuity.
 
Mr Lucas Chew, Country Head of Transaction Banking, UOB Malaysia, said, “The launch of the Vendor Financing Programme with PAAB reflects UOB Malaysia’s commitment to uplift the country’s water infrastructure ecosystem and support the suppliers and vendors who are central to delivering national water projects.
 
“By offering predictable, non‑recourse financing and digitising key supply chain processes, we are helping vendors manage cash flow more efficiently, shorten processing cycles and improve overall operational readiness. This will lead to faster execution, stronger supply chain resilience and a healthier ecosystem that can better support the long‑term development of Malaysia’s water infrastructure.”
 
Malaysia continues to prioritise the expansion and upgrading of national water infrastructure, with more than 700 water related projects rolled out under recent development plans. Reliable access to working capital and efficient financing are essential for vendors to operate smoothly, meet project timelines and support sector wide growth.

The launch of the Programme is timely as it strengthens project delivery, enhances supply chain readiness and contributes to the Government’s broader efforts under the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) to improve efficiency, quality and long-term sustainability within the water services industry.
 
Puan Zaleha Abdul Hamid, Chief Financial Officer, PAAB, said “the Programme directly strengthens PAAB’s project execution capabilities by improving the financial readiness of its vendors. We are proud to partner with UOB Malaysia on this programme, that helps our contractors, consultants and suppliers manage cash flow, handle rising costs and plan their work with greater financial certainty. The Programme enables our vendors to deliver more reliably, contributing to smoother project execution nationwide. This initiative aligns with PAAB’s commitment to providing sustainable, efficient and high quality water infrastructure for the communities we serve.”
 
The launch marks a key milestone in the partnership between UOB Malaysia and PAAB, reinforcing their shared commitment to supporting Malaysia’s water sector through financial innovation, operational efficiency, and ecosystem development.

SOURCE: UOB Malaysia 

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 
UOB Malaysia
Name: Averlyn Lim
Brand, Media and Communications
Tel: 018-2299 168 
Email:averlyn.limsl@uob.com.my                   

Name: Nizam Arop
Brand, Media and Communications
Tel: 603- 2638 6304/ 6017-333 6329
Email: nizam.arop@uob.com.my 

Pengurusan Aset Air Berhad
Name: Rozaifee Abu Zaharim
Head of Corporate Services Division
Tel: +60 12 329 4769
Email: rozaifee@paab.my

--BERNAMA

NACRA 2026 LAUNCHED BY BURSA MALAYSIA, MIA & MICPA

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 (Bernama) -- Bursa Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Malaysia or the Exchange), the Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) and The Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA) today jointly launched the 36th National Annual Corporate Report Awards (NACRA) at a virtual event.  

With the enduring theme of “Towards Accountability & Excellence”, NACRA underscores the importance of high-quality annual reports in strengthening transparency, building trust, and supporting the integrity of the capital market, said Ong Chee Wai, Chairman of NACRA’s Organising Committee, in his welcoming remarks. 

As the corporate reporting landscape evolves, NACRA remains committed to ensuring its framework stays relevant and forward-looking. “We continuously review and enhance our assessment criteria to align with emerging global standards, regulatory developments, and stakeholder expectations,” emphasised Ong. 
 
In line with these global developments, sustainability reporting is playing an increasingly central role in shaping corporate disclosure. Ong highlighted the launch of the National Sustainability Reporting Framework (NSRF) in 2024 as a “significant milestone in Malaysia’s sustainability journey, aligning national requirements with the IFRS Sustainability Disclosure Standards issued by the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB).” In tandem, Bursa Malaysia has enhanced its Sustainability Reporting Framework and Listing Requirements to support this transition. 

“Reflecting these developments, NACRA continues to emphasise integrated reporting and sustainability disclosures. Our assessment criteria place greater focus on the quality, consistency, and connectivity of financial and non-financial information, including forward-looking insights and value creation narratives over the short, medium, and long term. The Best Sustainability Reporting Award remains a key category in recognising organisations that demonstrate leadership in this area,” stated Ong.

Foong Mun Kong, Chairman of NACRA’s Adjudication Committee, highlighted the importance of connectivity between financial and non-financial information to support decision-making. “As corporate reporting continues to evolve, it is no longer sufficient to report financial performance in isolation. There is an increasing expectation for organisations to demonstrate clear connectivity between financial and non-financial information, and to articulate a coherent value creation narrative over the short, medium, and long term.” 

“In this regard, NACRA places strong emphasis on integrated thinking and high-quality sustainability reporting. We encourage organisations to move beyond compliance, towards meaningful, decision-useful disclosures that enhance transparency, accountability, and trust. We also welcome greater adoption of independent assurance to further strengthen the credibility of sustainability information,” emphasised Foong. 

NACRA 2026 is open to all companies incorporated or registered in Malaysia, including listed and non-listed entities, as well as the public sector and other organisations established in Malaysia. The closing date for submissions is 30 June 2026. Only annual reports with the 2025 financial year-end are eligible for entry to NACRA 2026. 

For more information about NACRA 2026, please contact the NACRA Secretariat (MIA) at nacra@mia.org.my or click HERE to learn more.  

NOTE TO EDITOR:

Bursa Malaysia Berhad

Bursa Malaysia is an Exchange holding company incorporated in 1976 and listed in 2005. It has grown to be one of the largest bourses in ASEAN. Today, Bursa Malaysia operates and regulates a multi-asset exchange, offering a comprehensive range of investment, capital raising, and exchange-related facilities. Bursa Malaysia is committed to its mission of Creating Opportunities, Growing Value for the Malaysian capital market, economy, and society. Learn more at BursaMalaysia.com

Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) 

Established under the Accountants Act 1967, MIA is the national accountancy body that regulates, develops, supports and enhances the integrity, reputation and interests of the profession in Malaysia, for the public interest. MIA accords the Chartered Accountant Malaysia or “C.A. (M)” designation. Powered by collaborative leadership, MIA connects its membership to a wide range of information resources, strategic platforms, professional development and networking opportunities. Presently, there are more than 41,000 members making an impact in organisations locally, regionally and globally. Recognised as the voice of the profession, MIA’s international outlook and connections are reflected in its membership of regional and international professional organisations such as the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) and the ASEAN Federation of Accountants (AFA). For more information on MIA, visit www.mia.org.my 

The Malaysian Institute of Certified Public Accountants (MICPA)  

MICPA was incorporated in 1958 and is the only local body in Malaysia which conducts a professional accountancy examination recognised under the Accountants Act 1967. MICPA’s objective is to advance the theory and practice of accountancy in all its aspects, recruit, educate and train a body of Certified Public Accountants who are equipped with the technical knowledge and competencies needed to provide value add services of the highest quality. The CPA designation is widely recognised as a premier brand of professional business qualification. For more information, visit www.micpa.com.my 

SOURCE: Malaysian Institute of Accountants (MIA) ​

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
MIA STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS & BRANDING
Email: communications@mia.org.my

Name: THANE MEYYAPPAN
Tel: +60122489534

Name: MOHD FAIZ OTHMAN
Tel: +60126225027 

--BERNAMA 

Van Lang Global School Connects Vietnam To Asia’s Education Hubs

KUALA LUMPUR, March 31 (Bernama) -- Van Lang University (VLU), one of Vietnam’s leading private academic institutions, has officially announced the launch of Van Lang Global School (VGS), a new education model aimed at bridging academia and the global marketplace.

Based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, VGS integrates international standards with a “sandbox” approach to experiential learning, designed to equip students with real-world skills and cross-border competencies.

The initiative builds on more than three decades of VLU’s development and nearly a decade of refining its honours and international programmes across 64 disciplines, according to a statement.

VLU Vice President and VGS Principal, Dr Luong Thi Phuong Nhi said the initiative reflects a shift in higher education priorities, adding that VGS aims to equip students with the adaptability and capabilities needed to navigate complexity and create value in a rapidly changing world.

The launch marks a strategic shift for VLU from a traditional education provider to a globally orientated learning ecosystem. VGS aims to strengthen academic and industry collaboration with partners across the United States, Singapore, China, and the broader Asia-Pacific.

The school’s curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary, practice-based learning, with over 70 per cent of courses delivered in English and aligned with global competency frameworks, including Singapore’s SkillsFuture model. Its co-creation approach brings together corporations, academic institutions, and industry experts to shape curricula and provide mentorship.

Supported by a network of more than 300 partners, VGS offers students access to internships, applied research, and cross-border opportunities, particularly within Asia. The university currently hosts over 6,000 international students, reflecting its growing global footprint.

A key feature of VGS is its Global Impact & Innovation Center, which provides a platform for students to tackle real-world challenges through hands-on projects, reinforcing adaptability and critical thinking.

VGS is positioned as part of a broader effort to connect Vietnam’s talent pool with the global innovation economy, supporting the country’s ongoing integration into international markets.

-- BERNAMA

TOKYO SKYTREE TO HOST “BLUE LOCK” COLLABORATION EVENT

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Bernama) -- Tobu Tower Skytree Co Ltd, operator of Tokyo Skytree, will host the "BLUE LOCK EPISODE SKY in TOKYO SKYTREE" event from April 9 to July 6.

In a statement, the company said this marks the first collaboration between the tower and the popular football-themed television anime "BLUE LOCK", written by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and illustrated by Yusuke Nomura.

The 450-metre-high Tembo Galleria has an exhibition featuring the event's key visuals with limited-edition merchandise, special cafe menu items, and an event-exclusive photo shoot service with "BLUE LOCK" characters.

Meanwhile, on the 350-metre-high Tembo Deck, exclusive videos will be screened on the windows converted into a giant screen of the Skytree Round Theater. The exterior of the tower will feature special "BLUE LOCK"-themed lighting inspired by various characters from the anime during the evening.

Moreover, special admission tickets to the observation decks, which include access to both the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria, will also be available, accompanied by a novelty card featuring an event-exclusive illustration.

Tobu Tower Skytree said the event is expected to attract visitors to Tokyo Skytree during the period.

-- BERNAMA

SME BANK RECORDS APPROXIMATELY RM4.3 BILLION APPROVED FINANCING IN 2025 TO ACCELERATE MSME GROWTH

KUALA LUMPUR, April 1 (Bernama) -- Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (“SME Bank” or “the Bank”) recorded a strong performance for 2025, with total approved financing of approximately RM4.3 billion, marking a 19% year-on-year increase. The growth reflected sustained demand across key strategic sectors including Bumiputera development, technology and innovation, digital adoption, climate-resilient initiatives, the halal industry, and tourism, in alignment with Bank Negara Malaysia’s (“BNM”) Performance Measurement Framework (“PMF”) and the MADANI Economic Framework.

Samad Majid Zain, Relief President/Chief Executive Officer of SME Bank, said “SME Bank’s performance in 2025 reaffirms our developmental mandate in strengthening Malaysia’s MSME ecosystem. Total approved financing grew 19% year-on-year to approximately RM4.3 billion, with approximately RM3.8 billion channelled to MSMEs, representing approximately 20% increase from the previous year, while more than 60% of customers secured financing of RM1 million and below, underscoring our continued focus on widening access for underserved and unserved entrepreneurs. This progress is further reinforced by the Government’s trust in the Bank, with close to RM2 billion in strategic initiatives mandated under National Budget 2026 to accelerate inclusive MSME growth and strengthen enterprise resilience across the economy.”
 
“Beyond financing, SME Bank delivered integrated solutions encompassing capacity building and targeted advisory support. In 2025, the Bank supported more than 14,500 entrepreneurs through our overall developmental, social and financial inclusion initiatives. These efforts support the continued strengthening of Malaysia’s MSME ecosystem, which contributes close to 40% of the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (“GDP”), equivalent to more than RM650 billion in economic value, underscoring the sector’s critical role in driving inclusive growth, employment and economic resilience,” he added.               
 
STRENGTHENING MSME CAPABILITIES, ADVANCING MARKET ACCESS AND DRIVING INCLUSIVE GROWTH
 
SME Bank advances its developmental mandate through targeted interventions that build stronger enterprises, reinforce business resilience and widen market opportunities, particularly among underserved segments of the economy. In doing so, capacity building initiatives, social finance solutions and export acceleration programmes help drive income growth, encourage digital adoption and strengthen the competitiveness of Malaysian businesses. Building on these efforts, the Bank also supports the expansion of the halal economy by enabling enterprises to attain certification standards, integrate into halal value chains and capture growing global demand. Complementing these initiatives, international business matching platforms connect local companies with overseas buyers, facilitating greater cross-border trade opportunities.
 
Collectively, these initiatives reinforce the MSME ecosystem by advancing sustainable business growth, productivity, value creation and job creation, in line with the outcomes of the PMF to drive inclusive economic development nationwide. For more information, visit www.smebank.com.my.
 
(A summary of SME Bank’s overall beyond financing and developmental initiatives and their respective achievements is provided in Appendix 1)  

https://go.smebank.com.my/4lXAYQE  

Issued by:
SME Bank Strategic Communication

SOURCE: SME Bank

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 
Name: Arnee Ismail
Head, Strategic Communication
SME Bank
Tel: +603 2603 7700
Email: communications@smebank.com.my 

--BERNAMA