KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 9): The government will provide RM6.6 billion in microfinancing to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, including Bumiputera and Indian business owners, as well as youths, gig workers and vulnerable groups, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Tabling Budget 2027 on Friday, Anwar said the government has allocated RM200 million for the Sejahtera Madani grant to provide equipment and training to 40,000 recipients, especially women.
He said RM3 billion will be allocated to the Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) initiative, which is expected to benefit some 360,000 entrepreneurs.
Another RM1.3 billion would be allocated for the National Entrepreneurial Group Economic Fund (Tekun) to support the development of Bumiputera entrepreneurs.
Financing under Tekun and AIM for the Indian community will also be increased to RM150 million to help small Indian entrepreneurs expand their businesses.
Meanwhile, Bank Simpanan Nasional will provide RM1.7 billion in microfinancing for youths, gig workers, vendors and vulnerable groups.