Kuala Lumpur, 20 February 2025 – Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF), a member of the MBSB Group, has officially launched its MIDF 2025 Roadshow at Menara MITI, under the theme “Embracing Global Competitiveness: Future Ready and Halal Businesses.” The event, officiated by YBhg. Datuk Hanafi Sakri, Deputy Secretary General (1) of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), underscores Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and global market presence for local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
In his keynote address, Tan Sri Rahman Mamat, Chairman of MIDF, highlighted the importance of technological advancements and the growing Halal industry in securing Malaysia’s position in the global economy. The roadshow saw the introduction of two key initiatives—Future Ready Financing (FRF) and Halal Accreditation Technology Improvement (HATI)—aimed at boosting the competitiveness of SMEs.
Future Ready Financing (FRF): Advancing Industry 4.0 Adoption
The FRF program, with RM200 million in allocated financing, is designed to help Malaysian SMEs in the manufacturing sector embrace automation and Industry 4.0 technologies. Through partnerships with MIDF, MTDC, SIRIM, and leading technology providers, SMEs will have access to cutting-edge solutions with minimal upfront costs.
With a financing limit of up to RM20 million per customer, the FRF program is set to drive transformative change in Malaysia’s SME sector by 2027. This initiative aims to:
- Assist 100 SMEs in their digital transformation journey
- Convert 100 traditional factories into smart factories
- Create 500 high-skilled jobs in digitalization
- Reduce foreign labor dependency by 10%
- Foster the development of 100 local tech talents and startups
The FRF program is a pivotal step toward creating a more innovative and self-sustaining industrial ecosystem in Malaysia.
Halal Accreditation Technology Improvement (HATI): Strengthening Malaysia’s Halal Industry
With the global demand for Halal-certified products surging, Malaysia is enhancing its position as a leading Halal hub through the HATI program, which is allocated RM100 million in financing. This program offers essential financial support to SMEs seeking Halal certification, as well as for infrastructure development, equipment acquisition, and training initiatives, enabling businesses to expand their reach in the growing Halal market.
HATI provides a maximum financing limit of RM5 million per customer and includes collaboration with the Halal Development Corporation (HDC). The program offers comprehensive support through:
- Pre-certification training
- Application support
- Post-certification monitoring
This structured approach ensures the long-term sustainability and compliance of SMEs as they expand globally in the Halal market.
A Stronger, More Resilient SME Ecosystem
The MIDF 2025 Roadshow represents Malaysia’s commitment to empowering its industries and ensuring that SMEs are well-equipped to compete globally. As Tan Sri Rahman Mamat stated, these initiatives are not just about financing—they are part of a strategic vision to create a resilient, inclusive, and innovative SME ecosystem.
“With the backing of MIDF, MBSB, and our esteemed partners, SMEs are better positioned to explore new opportunities, innovate, and extend their global presence. We encourage all SMEs to take full advantage of these programs and elevate their businesses to new heights,” he added.
The MIDF 2025 Roadshow will continue to travel across Malaysia, providing SMEs nationwide with access to these game-changing initiatives.
