MSME support initiatives launched in Indonesia and Malaysia

Government authorities in Indonesia and Malaysia are implementing different strategies to bolster micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

In Serang, Indonesia, the city government held a Focus Group Discussion to map supply chains and unify business data. The initiative aims to connect local MSME production with market needs, such as supplying products to the local hospitality sector, to increase competitiveness at a national level.

In Malaysia, Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Steven Sim has called on financing and development agencies—including TEKUN Nasional, Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia, SME Bank, Bank Rakyat, and SME Corp—to increase outreach efforts. Sim emphasized that agencies should actively seek out small traders and rural entrepreneurs rather than waiting for them to apply, ensuring they receive not only financing but also capacity building and market access.