Kuala Lumpur, 26 June 2025 – SME Bank has announced a robust RM211 million package of new strategic initiatives to support Malaysia’s MADANI economic agenda, as outlined in the National Budget 2025. These initiatives aim to strengthen the MSME ecosystem through focused support in key sectors such as Technology, Tourism, Halal, and ESG, while also uplifting B40 and ASNAF entrepreneurs.

Acting Group President and CEO, Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, highlighted the Bank’s role in nation-building, with over RM1 billion in strategic initiatives under Budget 2025. He noted the inclusion of:

  • MySMELady 2.0
  • Umbrella Ecosystem Financing
  • Dana Kelestarian Alam
  • Maju Usahawan Madani
  • iTEKAD ISHRAF 4.0

“In line with our developmental mandate, we are pleased to inject more excitement in the MSME sector with the launch of new programmes, forming part of the strategic initiatives exceeding RM1 billion entrusted to SME Bank under the National Budget 2025.

These initiatives, including the MySMELady 2.0, Umbrella Ecosystem Financing, Dana Kelestarian Alam, and Maju Usahawan Madani demonstrate our comprehensive approach to nation-building and our commitment to strengthening the national entrepreneurial landscape. Additionally, we are also proud to roll-out the fourth edition of the SME Bank iTEKAD ISHRAF (“ISHRAF 4.0”), a beyond financing initiative designed to equip the B40 and ASNAF entrepreneurs with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to sustain and grow their businesses.”

As of May 2025, SME Bank has already approved RM2 billion in financing and is well on track to meet its RM3 billion target for the year.

Officiated by Government Leaders

The official launch was graced by Finance Minister II, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan and Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, YB Datuk Ewon Benedick, underscoring strong governmental support.

Newly Launched Financing Programmes

ProgrammeFocus AreaKey Features
MySMELady 2.0Women entrepreneursRM100,000–RM3 million financing; 5% p.a.; up to 5 years
Umbrella Ecosystem FinancingBumiputera MSMEsRM50,000–RM1 million; 4% p.a.; up to 7 years
Dana Kelestarian AlamLow-carbon/sustainable MSMEsRM100,000–RM5 million; 3.5%–6% p.a.; up to 7 years

Capacity-Building Programmes

ProgrammeTarget GroupObjective
Maju Usahawan Madani (via CEDAR)General entrepreneursTraining for ~3,000 entrepreneurs
iTEKAD ISHRAF 4.0B40 and ASNAF entrepreneursSocial finance support; target 10% increase in sales for ~400 entrepreneurs

Existing Financing and Support Programmes

Ongoing Financing Initiatives:

  • Vanigham Financing Scheme
  • SME Technology Transformation Fund
  • HalalBiz Financing
  • Social Enterprise Financing Scheme
  • Jaguh Serantau
  • Business Accelerator Programme (RMK-12)
  • Dana Kemampanan PMKS Bumiputera

Capacity-Building Programme:

  • Business Export Programme