KUALA LUMPUR (May 15): United Overseas Bank (Malaysia) Bhd (UOB Malaysia) has rolled out targeted financial assistance for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) under Bank Negara Malaysia’s (BNM) SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SRF). 

The facility aims to help businesses manage cash flow pressures amid heightened global economic uncertainties, according to the bank's statement.

It also intends to provide timely financing support to SMEs facing operational disruptions and financial strain, particularly businesses affected by external shocks such as the ongoing Middle East conflict.

The conflict has raised global supply chain and cost pressures, affecting the revenue streams and operating stability of some businesses, UOB Malaysia said.

“Through facilities like the Bank Negara Malaysia SME Stabilisation Relief Facility, we are working to channel timely, practical support to help businesses manage cash flow pressures, sustain operations and build resilience for the future,” said chief executive officer Ng Wei Wei. 

Building on our earlier relief assistance efforts, we remain focused on supporting our customers every step of the way as they navigate evolving market conditions, she added. 

Under the BNM SME SRF, eligible SMEs may obtain financing of up to RM750,000 at a rate of up to 3.75% per year, inclusive of guarantee fees, with financing tenure of up to five years. The facility is backed by guarantee coverage from Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Bhd or Credit Guarantee Corp Malaysia Bhd.