RM6.7bln under PKNS initiative to assist entrepreneurs

PUSA: The Sarawak government has allocated RM6.7 billion under the Sarawak State Development Corporation (PKNS) to assist existing and potential entrepreneurs.

Beting Maro assemblyman Razaili Gapor mentioned that the financial aid was provided to local entrepreneurs without imposing any interest.

He stated that the initiative aligns with the Sarawak government’s intention to cultivate successful local entrepreneurs and ultimately aid in driving the state’s economy.

“I thus urge entrepreneurs to consistently utilise the opportunities and facilities provided by the government and private institutions to enhance their capacities and expand their businesses into the global market,” he said.

He said this during the Pusa 2023 Business Registration Programme held at Temenggung Kadir Beladin Square here recently.

Razaili added the programme was an initiative implemented by the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry, and Investment (MINTRED) to register businesses of entrepreneurs operating without any business licenses.

“Through this programme, informal entrepreneurs, especially those in rural areas, can be assisted in formalising their businesses.

“By registering their businesses, our entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to benefit from government assistance, financial institutions, and explore other business prospects,” he said.

He noted that the World Bank had recorded that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) significantly contributed to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2021, besides providing sustainable economic growth, particularly in Sarawak.

“Through this programme, rural communities also benefit while exploring various business sectors,” he said.

Later, he also distributed the cheque from Agro Bank for the Sarawak Micro Credit Financing Scheme amounting RM3,494,600 to the beneficiaries; a cheque amounting RM38,000 for the Technical and Vocational Entrepreneur Programme; Graduates Towards Entrepreneurship Programme (RM147,000) and for the GoDigital initiative (RM10,000).