Inclusive growth must reach vulnerable entrepreneurs

KUCHING: Entrepreneurs from low-income households and vulnerable groups must be included in the inaugural NAWEM International Forum on Inclusive Growth 2027 (NIF2027) to benefit from its learning and networking opportunities.

Women, Early Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister, Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah said her ministry sought involvement in the organising committee to ensure the forum also reached entrepreneurs supported by its departments.

“What is the meaning of inclusivity if we don’t include these entrepreneurs who need that opportunity to gain knowledge and experience and learn from successful people?” she said during a press conference on the forum at the DUN Media Room here on today.

Fatimah delivers his speech. Photo: JAPEN

Fatimah said potential participants included women heading households, B40 women entrepreneurs, former prisoners and persons with disabilities who could learn from experienced entrepreneurs and build connections to grow their businesses.

She said women entrepreneurs continued to face challenges in accessing information, securing funding, developing skills and adapting to the digital economy, with some requiring continued guidance in managing their businesses and finances.

“Besides grants, attitude and exposure are also important; they need exposure to business opportunities, how to get there, how to manage their business and how to manage their money,” she said.

She added that entrepreneurship could help vulnerable households increase their incomes and enable welfare recipients to become financially independent, while successful women entrepreneurs could mentor those still developing their businesses.

Organised by the National Association of Women Entrepreneurs of Malaysia (NAWEM) with Tanoti Sdn Bhd, NIF2027 will take place at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching from January 27 to 29, 2027, with approximately 1,000 delegates expected from Malaysia and abroad.

Fatimah also urged capable women entrepreneurs to pursue wider markets and build on their achievements at the local level.

“Once you are successful, there is always another step higher that you can try to achieve, at the national and international level,” she said.