Kuala Lumpur – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on banking institutions to play a more proactive role as strategic partners in sustaining Malaysia’s domestic economy, especially in supporting micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) facing current challenges.
Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, stressed that while Malaysia’s economic fundamentals remain resilient, the government will not tolerate any delays in addressing pressures on critical sectors, particularly MSMEs, which form the backbone of the economy.
During an engagement session with chief executive officers of banking institutions today, Anwar announced a RM5 billion special facility to be channelled through the banking sector to assist affected MSMEs.
“This facility complements the existing RM5 billion guarantee provided under Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Bhd (SJPP), bringing the total financial support for MSMEs to RM10 billion,” he said.
The Prime Minister emphasised that access to these facilities must be expanded fairly and comprehensively, including to new MSMEs that are genuinely in need.
“I also emphasise that access to these facilities must be expanded fairly and comprehensively, including to new MSMEs who are truly in need. Banks must not take a narrow approach; they must act as strategic partners to sustain the domestic economy,” Anwar said.
He added that the MADANI government will continue to act with firmness, discipline, and clear priorities to safeguard local businesses, protect people’s jobs, and ensure the country’s economy remains stable and resilient.
The strains currently faced by MSMEs are largely attributed to the ongoing global energy crisis and the conflict in West Asia, which continue to disrupt global supply chains.
Anwar made the announcement via a post on his official X account following the high-level engagement session with banking leaders aimed at coordinating more decisive and structured assistance for the MSME sector.
