By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, April 23: More than 45,500 entrepreneurs in Sarawak have benefited from RM199.49 million in aid between 2021 and the first quarter of 2025 through various entrepreneurship programmes under the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (MINTRED), reflecting the State government’s strong commitment to supporting local business development.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the initiatives are part of a comprehensive effort to strengthen Sarawak’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with a focus on supporting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in a more integrated and effective manner, according to a TVS news report.
Speaking to reporters after chairing the 2025 meeting of the Sarawak Entrepreneur Development Coordination Committee (SEDCC) here today, Awang Tengah said the committee plays a pivotal role in aligning programmes across federal and state agencies to avoid duplication and maximise impact.
“Through this committee, we are coordinating the implementation of development programmes, financial aid packages, capital support, and business premises provision offered by both federal and state government agencies,” he said.
He noted that the SEDCC serves not just as a coordination body, but also as a strategic platform for collaboration among stakeholders involved in entrepreneur development.
“We are also focused on enhancing entrepreneurs’ capacity through strategic partnerships with relevant agencies,” he added. “Our aim is to ensure that the planning and implementation of development initiatives are holistic and impactful.”
Awang Tengah also highlighted efforts to help entrepreneurs improve their marketing strategies, branding, and promotion of locally made products and services. These efforts, he said, are critical to increasing visibility and competitiveness in a broader market.
In addition, the SEDCC is looking into expanding infrastructure for entrepreneurs, especially in rural areas. This includes the development of suitable business premises to ensure equitable access to opportunities regardless of location.
“The State government remains committed to supporting Sarawakians who are determined to build their businesses. These programmes are designed to equip them with the resources they need to succeed,” he said.
The Sarawak government’s entrepreneurship agenda aligns with its broader goals of inclusive economic growth and sustainable development, especially in light of Sarawak’s aspirations to be a high-income and innovation-driven economy. — DayakDaily
