Malaysia’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) must strengthen governance, embrace digital transformation and leverage business intelligence to remain competitive in an increasingly complex business environment, industry leaders said during the Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2026 National Roadshow in Ipoh.
Organised by the SME Association of Malaysia, the PBA2026 National Roadshow – Ipoh Edition brought together more than 100 entrepreneurs, business owners, industry leaders and association representatives at Weil Hotel Ipoh. The event served as a platform for SMEs to gain practical insights into corporate governance, e-Invoicing, ESG adoption, investment opportunities, talent development and digital transformation.
The roadshow forms part of a nationwide initiative leading up to the Platinum Business Awards 2026, one of Malaysia’s most established business award platforms that recognises outstanding entrepreneurs and enterprises for excellence, innovation and leadership.
The event was officiated by YB Tuan Goh See Hua, State Assemblyman for Pasir Pinji, representing YB Tuan Loh Sze Yee, Perak State Executive Councillor for Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development. Among the distinguished guests were Dr Chin Chee Seong, National President of SME Association of Malaysia; Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of Platinum Business Awards 2026; Carlson Chia Ban Guan, President of SME Ipoh; and Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong, Secretary General of SME Association of Malaysia.
Perak Businesses Encouraged to Pursue Excellence
In his welcoming address, Carlson Chia highlighted Perak’s growing business ecosystem, which includes strong manufacturing, trading, services and emerging industry sectors.
He noted that the state is home to many high-potential enterprises and expressed hope that the roadshow would help local businesses better understand the value of the Platinum Business Awards platform. He also emphasised the importance of staying informed about policy developments, digitalisation trends and emerging business opportunities that can strengthen competitiveness and market visibility.
Governance, Digitalisation and Intelligence Take Centre Stage
A key message throughout the event centred on the theme of PBA2026: “Governance, Digitalisation and Intelligence.”
According to Dr Chin Chee Seong, SMEs remain the backbone of Malaysia’s economy. However, companies must adapt quickly to changing market conditions and evolving business expectations. He stressed that stronger governance frameworks, digital transformation initiatives and intelligent business strategies are increasingly critical for long-term sustainability and resilience.
Dr Chin explained that the PBA2026 theme encourages businesses to strengthen governance practices, adopt innovative technologies and utilise business intelligence tools to navigate future challenges more effectively.
“Platinum Business Awards is more than an award. It is a platform that enhances brand value, strengthens credibility, expands business networks and opens doors to international opportunities,” he said.
Recognising Entrepreneurial Excellence
Meanwhile, Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang emphasised the continuing role of the Platinum Business Awards in recognising business excellence and entrepreneurial achievement across Malaysia.
Established in 2002, the awards programme has become one of the country’s most respected business recognition platforms. It celebrates organisations and entrepreneurs that demonstrate outstanding leadership, innovation and business performance.
For 2026, the awards feature several categories designed to recognise businesses at different stages of growth and across various industries. These include the Platinum Honours Awards, Women Entrepreneur Awards, Young Entrepreneur Awards, Industry Entrepreneur Awards, SME Enterprise Excellence Awards and International Awards.
Expert Insights on Digitalisation, ESG and e-Invoicing
In addition to promoting business excellence, the roadshow delivered a series of knowledge-sharing sessions led by experts from government agencies, statutory bodies and industry organisations.
Among the speakers were representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (HASiL), Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), SME Corp. Malaysia and PERKESO. Their sessions covered topics such as tax policy, e-Invoicing implementation, investment opportunities, SME development support and workforce-related initiatives.
The event also addressed several issues currently shaping the SME landscape.
Adjunct Practice Professor Cheah Kok Hoong, President of the ESG Association of Malaysia, shared insights on sustainability and ESG adoption, highlighting the growing importance of responsible business practices.
Meanwhile, Dr Lai Lee Ching, President of the Public Service Chinese Community Malaysia, discussed Digital Trust Framework Development and Anti-Scam Strategies. Her presentation focused on strengthening digital trust, improving cybersecurity awareness and enhancing fraud prevention capabilities among businesses.
Dr Anthony Dass, National Council Member of SME Association of Malaysia, also shared perspectives on business transformation and future growth trends, providing participants with insights into how businesses can remain competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.
Building Momentum Towards PBA2026
The roadshow attracted strong support from industry associations and business organisations. Among those in attendance were Henry Tan Han Lay, President of The Malaysia Hardware Wholesaler Association; Wan Yat Sing, President of the Perak Chinese Hardware Dealers’ Association; and David Tan Sin Cheng, Deputy President of the Perak Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Organisers encouraged businesses nationwide to participate in the Platinum Business Awards 2026. They emphasised that nominations provide more than recognition alone. Businesses also gain opportunities to showcase their achievements, strengthen their brand positioning and expand growth opportunities both locally and internationally.
National Roadshow Continues Across Malaysia
Following successful stops in Penang and Ipoh, the PBA2026 National Roadshow will continue to Kuching, Melaka, Shah Alam and Kota Kinabalu. Through these engagements, the SME Association of Malaysia aims to promote excellence, innovation and sustainable business growth while identifying enterprises with strong leadership, proven achievements and international potential.
The campaign will culminate with the Platinum Business Awards 2026 Gala Dinner in November 2026. The event will bring together entrepreneurs, corporate leaders, policymakers and business organisations to celebrate some of Malaysia’s most outstanding enterprises and business leaders.
As Malaysia’s SME sector navigates increasing digitalisation, regulatory change and global competition, initiatives such as the PBA2026 National Roadshow provide a valuable platform for knowledge sharing, networking and business recognition. More importantly, they encourage entrepreneurs to embrace stronger governance, digital innovation and strategic leadership as they build resilient businesses for the future.
