KUALA LUMPUR (Dec 3): MBSB Bhd (KL:MBSB) has partnered with Santander Group’s Navigator Global to provide all its small and medium enterprise (SME) customers with free access worth RM1,800 each to the international trade platform, in a bid to accelerate Malaysian SMEs’ expansion into global markets.
The initiative was launched on Wednesday, witnessed by outgoing Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who said the collaboration would equip SMEs with structured guidance, export pathways and regulatory support to compete internationally.
Under the partnership, Malaysian SMEs gain entry to Navigator Global’s digital suite of trade tools, including customised market-entry action plans, real-time global market intelligence, verified international partners, and educational events.
MBSB said the platform is designed to help businesses overcome regulatory, informational and networking barriers that often restrict SME internationalisation.
“This partnership with Navigator Global is a landmark achievement for MBSB and for the future of Malaysian SMEs,” said MBSB group chief executive officer Rafe Haneef. He added that global trade presents significant opportunities for local businesses looking to expand beyond Malaysia.
Navigator Global CEO John Carroll added that the partnership aims to reduce the cost, time and risks of global expansion, noting success from a UK pilot that supported more than 2,500 firms.
Meanwhile, the initiative aligns with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry's DKN 2030 target to raise SME export contribution from 17% to 30% by 2030. Navigator Global addresses core challenges such as compliance complexity and lack of credible contacts, offering SMEs direct access to experts and vetted partners to streamline international growth.
Beyond the platform, MBSB will continue supporting SMEs with financing solutions, including working capital, term financing, supplier finance and foreign currency risk management tools. The Navigator Global platform is available to SMEs at any stage of their export journey.
“Our collaboration with MBSB represents a significant stride forward in our mission to simplify international trade, and help to accelerate SME growth,” said Carroll.