KUALA LUMPUR, 10 December 2024 – Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (SME Bank) has successfully onboarded 83 companies through its Business Export Programme (BEP), facilitating over RM192 million in total export sales across prominent global markets, including Southeast Asia, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and the United States
The BEP, launched in 2020 under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MECD), aims to empower high-performing SMEs to penetrate and expand their presence in international markets. SME Bank collaborated with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) to implement the program, which involves rigorous screening, training, and evaluation to ensure participant success.
Advancing Malaysia’s SME Sector Globally
Speaking at the BEP graduation ceremony, MECD Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick highlighted the vital role of SMEs, which contributed RM613.1 billion (39.1%) to Malaysia’s GDP in 2023. “The BEP aligns with the National Entrepreneurship Policy (DKN) 2030 by fostering the internationalization of local entrepreneurs. This initiative underscores our commitment to advancing Malaysia’s SME ecosystem domestically and globally,” he said.
Milestones and Future Goals
Since its inception, the BEP has been structured in four phases. To date, 43 companies have completed the program, with the remaining 40 expected to graduate by 2026. Acting Group President/CEO of SME Bank, Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, emphasized the program’s role in equipping SMEs with the capabilities to thrive internationally.
Beyond BEP, SME Bank offers a comprehensive range of financing options tailored for SMEs, including funds allocated in the National 2025 Budget, such as:
RM200 million Jaguh Serantau Programme
RM100 million HalalBiz Financing Programme
RM400 million SME Technology Transformation Fund (STTF)
RM100 million Dana Kelestarian Alam (DKA)
These initiatives demonstrate SME Bank’s commitment to supporting SMEs throughout their lifecycle and enhancing their global footprint,” Dr. Mohammad Hardee added.
Graduation Ceremony Highlights
The graduation ceremony, officiated by Datuk Ewon Benedick, was attended by SME Bank Chairman Dato’ Muslim Hussain and senior management representatives.
For more information about SME Bank’s programs and services, visit www.smebank.com.my or call 03-2603 7700.
About SME Bank
SME Bank, established in 2005, is a Development Financial Institution (DFI) under MECD, committed to empowering SMEs through innovative financial services and strategic programs aligned with DKN 2030.
ssued by: SME Bank Group Strategic Communication
For media inquiries, contact:
Arnee Ismail
Head, Group Strategic Communication, SME Bank
Tel: 03-2615 2954
Email: [email protected]
