Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (CGC) has launched the CGC Youth Entrepreneurship Programme (YEP), a structured platform designed to nurture the next generation of Malaysian entrepreneurs.
Launched on 1 September 2026 at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara Malaysia, the programme aims to provide young Malaysians with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to build resilient businesses and contribute to a more vibrant and sustainable micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ecosystem.
The programme was officially launched by YB Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, Political Secretary to the Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development.
The launch marks a significant milestone in CGC’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs beyond financing. Through CGC YEP, the organisation aims to strengthen the capabilities of young entrepreneurs, enhance their readiness for business growth, and provide access to valuable networks, industry knowledge and growth opportunities.
50 Young Entrepreneurs Graduate From First Cohort
The launch ceremony also celebrated the graduation of 50 young entrepreneurs from CGC YEP Cohort 1, comprising participants from the programme’s Early Stage and Growth Stage tracks.
Over the course of the three-month programme, participants in the Early Stage track were equipped with practical knowledge and essential business insights covering business fundamentals, financial management, marketing, market access and financing readiness.
Meanwhile, participants in the Growth Stage track completed the BANGKIT Programme in collaboration with INSKEN, further strengthening their capabilities to scale and expand their businesses.
The completion of CGC YEP Cohort 1 marks an important milestone for the participating entrepreneurs as they progress to the next stage of their business journey.
Through the programme, participants have strengthened their business capabilities, enhanced their operational readiness and expanded their professional networks.
An Ecosystem Approach to Youth Entrepreneurship
A key strength of CGC YEP is its ecosystem-driven approach, which brings together government agencies, academia, industry players, financial institutions and strategic partners to create a more holistic support system for young entrepreneurs.
The programme encompasses capacity building, mentorship, knowledge sharing, financial education and market exposure.
Partners including INSKEN, Universiti Malaya, Sunway University, TVET institutions, AKPK and participating financial institutions have contributed to the entrepreneurial development of participants and the overall impact of the programme.
By bringing together organisations with different areas of expertise, CGC aims to ensure that young entrepreneurs receive support that goes beyond access to financing.
Youth Entrepreneurs as Drivers of Economic Resilience
In his officiating address, YB Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen underscored the importance of empowering youth entrepreneurs as key drivers of innovation, job creation and economic resilience.
He also commended CGC and its partners for providing young entrepreneurs with the support, networks and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape.
Meanwhile, Encik Mohamed Nazri Omar, President and Chief Executive Officer of CGC, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs throughout their business lifecycle.
He emphasised that sustainable business growth extends beyond access to financing, highlighting the importance of continuous capability development, advisory support and strategic partnerships in building resilient and successful enterprises.
Connecting Entrepreneurs With Markets and Industry
The launch ceremony also featured an MSME exhibition showcasing entrepreneurs from CGC YEP Cohort 1, INSKEN and CGC Financing, alongside a MyKNP showcase.
The exhibition gave guests and stakeholders an opportunity to engage directly with entrepreneurs, discover their products and services, and gain insights into CGC’s broader efforts to foster entrepreneurship development.
Such market exposure forms an important part of the support ecosystem for young businesses, allowing entrepreneurs to build connections while gaining greater visibility for their products and services.
Strengthening Malaysia’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The launch of CGC YEP reflects CGC’s ongoing commitment to advancing Malaysia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem through stronger business capabilities and improved access to knowledge, networks and opportunities.
By investing in youth entrepreneurship and providing support throughout different stages of business development, the programme seeks to cultivate a generation of resilient and innovative entrepreneurs.
Ultimately, CGC aims for these young entrepreneurs to become contributors to inclusive economic growth and play a role in shaping Malaysia’s future prosperity.
