KUCHING — Sarawak will intensify support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) targeting international markets through enhanced funding, training, and strategic trade partnerships, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan announced at Sarawak Export Day 2025.
The Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investments (MINTRED) revealed over 178,000 local entrepreneurs have received RM3.3 billion in financial assistance since 2021, with 3,300 micro-enterprises (PMKS) benefiting from RM75.5 million interest subsidies.
“Entrepreneurs are pivotal to Sarawak’s export success,” stated Awang Tengah before industry leaders at Wednesday’s summit. He confirmed joint federal-state backing through low-interest loans, capacity-building programs, and MATRADE export ambassador services. Agencies including SME Corporation Malaysia provide loan guarantees and skills training to enhance competitiveness amid global trade challenges.
The Deputy Premier urged businesses to diversify beyond domestic markets, prioritizing five high-growth sectors: modern agriculture, advanced manufacturing, ecotourism, digital economy, and green technology. He specifically advocated leveraging ASEAN free trade agreements like the ASEAN-China FTA and Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which collectively cover 30% of global GDP.
“Stable governance and business-friendly policies enable this support ecosystem,” Awang Tengah noted, while announcing plans to establish overseas trade offices in Singapore, Brunei, Pontianak, and Abu Dhabi. The strategy demands SME innovation in adapting to volatile international markets.
Attendees included Deputy MINTRED Minister Datuk Dr. Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, MATRADE Chairman Dato Sri Reezal Merican Naina Merican, and MINTRED Permanent Secretary Dzulkornain Masron.
