More than 250 representatives from government, the business community, trade associations, government agencies and various industry sectors gathered in Kota Kinabalu for the Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2026 Nationwide Roadshow, organised by the SME Association of Malaysia.
Held on 24 July 2026, the roadshow promoted this year’s theme, “Governance • Digitalisation • Intelligence,” highlighting how the Platinum Business Awards continues to serve as a strategic platform for Malaysian businesses to strengthen brand value, enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable business growth.
The event was officiated by YB Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam, Deputy Chief Minister I of Sabah and Minister of Works and Utilities.
Business and Government Leaders Unite to Support Malaysian SMEs
The event brought together an impressive line-up of government officials, business leaders and industry representatives from across Malaysia.
Among those in attendance were Dr Chin Chee Seong, National President of the SME Association of Malaysia; Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of Platinum Business Awards 2026; Dr Deledda Tan Hui San, President of SME Association of Sabah; alongside leaders of various business associations, government agencies and members of Malaysia’s business community.
The gathering reinforced the shared commitment between the public and private sectors to strengthen Malaysia’s SME ecosystem and encourage businesses to embrace innovation, good governance and sustainable growth.
Governance, Digital Transformation and Innovation Key to Future Growth
In his keynote address, Datuk Seri Panglima Dr Joachim Gunsalam reaffirmed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) remain a vital pillar of Sabah’s and Malaysia’s economic development, contributing significantly to employment, entrepreneurship and innovation.
He emphasised that businesses must continue strengthening corporate governance, accelerating digital transformation and embracing intelligent technologies in order to remain competitive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
Beyond financial performance, he noted that companies should continuously improve management capabilities, governance standards and innovation. He also described the Platinum Business Awards as an important platform that encourages enterprises to pursue excellence while gaining nationwide recognition for their achievements.
More Than Two Decades of Recognising Outstanding Malaysian Businesses
Speaking at the event, Dr Chin Chee Seong highlighted that the Platinum Business Awards has established itself as one of Malaysia’s most prestigious and credible business recognition programmes over the past 23 years.
He said the awards recognise companies that demonstrate excellence in corporate governance, leadership, innovation and sustainable business growth.
“The Platinum Business Awards is more than an awards programme. It is a platform that enables businesses to strengthen their brand value, enhance corporate reputation and unlock new business opportunities through a comprehensive professional assessment,” he said.
Dr Chin also announced that following the Kota Kinabalu roadshow, the nationwide campaign will continue in Kota Bharu, Johor Bahru, Kuantan and Shah Alam, encouraging more outstanding Malaysian companies to build globally competitive brands.
Winning the Award Is Just the Beginning
Organising Chairman Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang said the 2026 awards encourage businesses to stay ahead of emerging trends by strengthening governance, digital adoption and overall competitiveness.
He explained that Platinum Business Awards winners receive far more than national recognition. Successful companies also benefit from an extensive branding programme that includes:
- Media interviews and newspaper coverage
- Corporate feature videos
- Brand publicity campaigns
- Magazine and corporate white paper publications
- Membership in the PBA Alumni Club
Collectively, these branding and promotional opportunities are valued at up to RM250,000.
“The Platinum Business Awards is not merely a trophy. It is the starting point for businesses to build credibility, strengthen their brand and unlock greater business opportunities,” he said.
Sabah Businesses Continue to Shine on the National Stage
Dr Deledda Tan Hui San, President of SME Association of Sabah, highlighted Sabah’s growing success at previous Platinum Business Awards.
She noted that 10 Sabah companies secured 11 awards in 2023, while nine companies won 10 awards in 2025, reflecting the increasing strength and competitiveness of Sabah enterprises nationwide.
She encouraged more outstanding Sabah businesses to participate in the Platinum Business Awards and leverage the national platform to enhance their visibility both locally and internationally.
Knowledge-Sharing Sessions Provide Practical Business Insights
In addition to the roadshow, participants attended knowledge-sharing sessions delivered by representatives from:
- Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN)
- Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA)
- Social Security Organisation (PERKESO)
- Alliance Islamic Bank
- U Business
- ESG Association of Malaysia
The sessions covered taxation, SME financing, workforce development, digital transformation and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices, providing businesses with valuable policy updates and practical insights to improve competitiveness.
Nominations Now Open for Platinum Business Awards 2026
Nominations for the Platinum Business Awards 2026 are now open and will close on 31 August 2026.
All entries will undergo an independent audit and comprehensive professional assessment based on corporate governance, financial performance, innovation, leadership, sustainability and overall business excellence to ensure the integrity and credibility of the awards.
The Platinum Business Awards 2026 Gala Dinner will take place on 19 November 2026 at the Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre, where outstanding businesses and entrepreneurs from Malaysia and abroad will gather to celebrate excellence in enterprise.
