Mohd Faizal Hizam bin Mat Supri, Nurul Zahirah Ayob
The SME Association of Malaysia has officially launched the first stop of its Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2026 Nationwide Roadshow in Penang, bringing together more than 300 entrepreneurs, business leaders and SME representatives to explore opportunities and challenges shaping Malaysia’s business landscape.
Held at St. Giles Wembley Penang, the event connected SMEs directly with government agencies, financial institutions, policymakers and industry experts. Discussions focused on key areas including digital transformation, e-Invoicing, ESG adoption, financing solutions, talent development and sustainable business growth.
The roadshow marks the first stop of a nationwide series. The programme will lead up to the Platinum Business Awards 2026 Gala Presentation Ceremony. Widely regarded as one of Malaysia’s premier business recognition platforms, the Platinum Business Awards celebrate enterprises and entrepreneurs that demonstrate excellence in leadership, innovation, governance, sustainability and business performance.
MSMEs Remain a Key Driver of Malaysia’s Economy
The event was officiated by Dato’ Soon Lip Chee, Board Member of SME Corporation Malaysia, who represented Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development YB Tuan Steven Sim Chee Keong.
In delivering the Minister’s keynote address, Dato’ Soon highlighted the critical role of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in supporting Malaysia’s economic growth.
According to him, MSMEs account for approximately 97% of businesses in Malaysia. They also employ nearly half of the nation’s workforce and contribute close to 40% of GDP.
He also noted that the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) continues to place MSMEs at the centre of the national economic agenda through financing support, capacity-building programmes and market development initiatives.
Under the PowerUp10K initiative, KUSKOP and its agencies have approved RM540 million in financing for entrepreneurs in Penang as of 31 May 2026. The initiative has benefited more than 4,400 enterprises across the state. Nationally, more than RM5 billion in financing has been approved this year, supporting over 185,000 entrepreneurs.
Dato’ Soon emphasised that financing goes beyond providing capital. Instead, it creates opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow, innovate and strengthen their businesses. He also encouraged Malaysian SMEs to embrace innovation, digital technologies and international opportunities to become stronger regional and global competitors.
Why Penang Was Chosen as the First Stop
Speaking at the event, Dr Chin Chee Seong, National President of SME Association of Malaysia, explained that Penang was selected as the first roadshow destination because of its reputation as one of Malaysia’s leading hubs for manufacturing, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship.
He noted that many successful Malaysian companies started in Penang before expanding into regional and global markets.
“Penang represents the spirit of innovation, resilience and business excellence that the Platinum Business Awards seeks to recognise and celebrate,” he said.
However, Dr Chin stressed that the roadshow is about more than promoting an awards programme.
For the first time, the SME Association has brought together ministries, government agencies, financial institutions and ecosystem partners under one roof as part of the PBA Roadshow. The objective is to give SMEs direct access to resources, support programmes, expertise and growth opportunities.
He added that while many SMEs know assistance programmes exist, they often struggle to identify the right agencies or entry points. Therefore, the roadshow aims to bridge that gap by connecting businesses directly with policymakers, regulators and business support organisations.
Industry Experts Share Insights on SME Growth
The Penang Roadshow featured a strong line-up of speakers and panellists from both the public and private sectors. Representatives included officials from the Ministry of Finance, Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM), Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), SME Corporation Malaysia, Social Security Organisation (PERKESO), ESG Association of Malaysia, Alliance Islamic Bank, U Business and VKA Wealth Planners.
Throughout the event, speakers shared practical insights and policy updates covering taxation, e-Invoicing implementation, investment opportunities, ESG integration, financing strategies, workforce development and long-term business sustainability.
These discussions reflected the growing importance of digitalisation, sustainability and financial readiness as SMEs prepare for a more competitive and rapidly changing business environment.
PBA Evolves Beyond Business Recognition
Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of Platinum Business Awards 2026, said the awards programme has evolved into a broader platform that helps businesses strengthen credibility, build networks and unlock growth opportunities.
According to him, businesses today seek more than recognition. They also want visibility, trust and meaningful connections that can support long-term growth.
He added that PBA 2026 is built around three core pillars: Governance, Digital and Intelligence. These pillars serve as the foundation for sustainable business success and future readiness.
This year’s awards programme features 74 categories across four award series:
- Platinum Honours Awards
- Platinum Entrepreneur Series
- SME Enterprise Excellence Series
- International Business Excellence Awards
New PBA Alumni Club to Strengthen Business Networks
Another key initiative introduced this year is the PBA Alumni Club. The platform will connect past and future award recipients through ongoing networking and business engagement opportunities.
Members will gain access to business matching programmes, networking sessions, government engagement initiatives, industry dialogues and international business missions. As a result, participants can continue creating value and building partnerships beyond the awards stage.
Roadshow Expands Nationwide Ahead of PBA 2026
Following its successful launch in Penang, the PBA 2026 Nationwide Roadshow will continue across major cities including Ipoh, Kuching, Melaka, Shah Alam, Johor Bahru, Kuantan, Kota Bharu and Kota Kinabalu.
The roadshow aims to engage SMEs nationwide, promote business excellence and identify more outstanding Malaysian enterprises deserving of national recognition.
Meanwhile, nominations for the Platinum Business Awards 2026 are officially open and will close on 31 August 2026. Businesses and entrepreneurs across Malaysia are encouraged to showcase their achievements in leadership, innovation, sustainability, digital excellence and business performance.
As Malaysian SMEs continue to navigate digital transformation and evolving market demands, initiatives such as the PBA 2026 Nationwide Roadshow provide an important platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and business growth.
