Sarawak SMEs showing resilience despite global economic challenges — Awg Tengah

Borneo Post

25-06-2025

PBA 2025 organising chairman Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong (left) presents a memento to Mohd Naroden, as Chin (second left) and Ong look on. — Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (June 25): Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sarawak continue to demonstrate strength and adaptability despite global economic challenges, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.
The Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment said Sarawak has over 74,000 SMEs, representing 6.8 per cent of the total figure in Malaysia.
'These businesses play a significant role in driving our economic growth, with 90.5 per cent involved in services, and smaller shares in construction, manufacturing and mining.
'With global uncertainties such as US reciprocal tariff policies, our SMEs must remain agile to thrive in the dynamic business landscape and align with our 2030 high-income goal,' he said in a speech for the Platinum Business Award (PBA) 2025 Nationwide Roadshow here yesterday.
The text of his speech was delivered by Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment advisor Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais.
Awang Tengah noted that SMEs form the backbone of Malaysia's economy, accounting for 96 per cent of total business establishments.
He said in 2023, SMEs contributed 39.1 per cent to the national Gross Domestic Product, employed 48.5 per cent of the workforce, and boosted Malaysia's export from 10.6 per cent in 2022 to 12.2 per cent.
On the PBA 2025 Nationwide Roadshow, he said the awards continue to recognise the outstanding achievements of SMEs and align with the nation's digital transformation and innovation goals.
'This year's evaluation criteria placed greater emphasis on corporate culture and sustainability, underscoring that true success goes beyond profit.
'It comes from how a business treats its people, gives back to society, and protects the environment. Despite challenges, many SMEs have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability,' he said.
The roadshow, which drew over 150 prominent local business leaders, government officials and financial institutions, served as a forum for strategic engagement and experience sharing, covering key topics such as brand development and market expansion.
According to SME Association of Malaysia president Dr Chin Chee Seong, Sarawak's strong policy support and infrastructure offer unprecedented growth opportunities for SMEs, especially in agriculture, food security and related value chains.
'SMEs need more than just financial support—they require technological transformation and market integration.
'We aim to leverage resources from our nationwide branches to foster cross-sector collaboration among members, shifting from traditional businesses to new areas such as digitalisation, agri-tech and renewable energy. This is not just business development; it's nation-building,' he said.
He added that the association will continue to be a 'third voice' advocating for fairness when policies like SST expansion or rental hikes affect businesses.
Meanwhile, Sarawak SME Association president Jordan Ong said the return of the awards after a one-year pause reflected the resilience and transformation of SMEs in the post-pandemic era.
'This is not just an award—it's about recognising the real stories behind your entrepreneurial journey. You create jobs, uplift communities, and drive national progress. Every bit of your effort deserves to be seen.
'This year, we hope to see more Sarawak-based businesses shining on the national stage. Whether you're a start-up or a growing company, this is your time to shine,' he said.