New RM50 million revenue-based financing launched for MSMEs

New Straits Times

13-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Dattel Asia Group, in collaboration with OHSEM360, has launched a RM50 million revenue-based financing (RBF) programme designed to provide flexible, data-driven financing solutions for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
This innovative model allows businesses to repay financing based on a percentage of their monthly revenue, offering a more adaptable and cash flow-friendly alternative to traditional fixed repayments.
The programme is facilitated through the smart platform MyDataHub.ai/rbf, where MSMEs can apply and be digitally assessed using real-time business performance data collected from various sources such as e-commerce platforms, QR Pay, and gig economy services.
This approach leverages data and AI technology to better match financing terms with the actual sales performance of participating businesses.
The launch was officiated by Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur yesterday.
Speaking at the event, Ewon highlighted the critical need for MSMEs to rapidly adopt modern technology to remain competitive in today's fast-paced market environment.
He noted that technology is evolving faster than expected, and entrepreneurs can no longer afford to operate using traditional methods; instead, they must embrace and integrate technology to stay relevant and competitive.
He said this inclusive and innovative financing initiative underscores the need for new solutions to improve MSMEs' access to capital.
"This revenue-based financing model gives MSMEs the space to grow without the burden of fixed repayment commitments. It is a clear example of how technology, data, and alternative financing can be combined to deliver real impact for entrepreneurs.
"I believe the alternative financing approach introduced by Dattel Asia Group will open up greater opportunities for entrepreneurs to access capital markets and become more competitive in the digital era.
"The ministry welcomes Dattel Asia Group's ambition and fully supports any private sector efforts to diversify financing options that will strengthen the MSME business ecosystem and further drive national entrepreneurship development," he added.
Ewon also said that in an effort to empower MSMEs to become more competitive, innovative, and resilient in both domestic and international markets, the ministry has introduced a variety of targeted financing initiatives.
These efforts, through SME Corporation Malaysia, include the Digital Financing Programme and Bumiputera MSMEs Financing Initiative.
In addition, the ministry, via Tekun Nasional. provides accessible micro-financing ranging from RM1,000 to RM100,000 to help entrepreneurs grow and expand their businesses.
For entrepreneurs seeking financing above RM100,000 and who have a strong repayment track record, Tekun Nasional also collaborates with financial institutions such as Bank Rakyat and SME Bank to support their larger capital needs.
Other agencies under the ministry, including SME Bank, Pernas, and Bank Rakyat, also offer a range of financing products tailored to the needs of MSMEs requiring working capital to scale and strengthen their business operations.
The initiative is supported by a strong network of financing partners, including Xin Finance, Funding Bee, Funding Societies and Choco Up.
These partners offer collateral-free financing solutions that are tailored to the actual sales performance of businesses.
By using data-driven credit assessments, they can provide fast approvals, giving MSMEs access to capital that grows with their revenue and helps reduce repayment pressure during periods of low cash flow.
Complementing the financing layer is a robust ecosystem of platform partners that enable seamless data integration and performance tracking.
These include Bayarlah (Beez Fintech) for QR Pay solutions, GoFluence, an AI-driven influencer marketing platform, and leading e-commerce platforms such as Lazada, TikTok Shop, Shopee, and EasyStore.
Dattel Asia Group chief executive officer Ashran Ghazi highlighted the transformative role of data and technology in unlocking new opportunities for entrepreneurs.
He underscored how platforms like MyDataHub.ai, powered by data and AI, are enabling more businesses, especially those previously underserved by traditional financing models, to access capital and gain valuable insights for smarter decision-making.
"Entrepreneurs should not be penalised simply because they do not meet the benchmarks of traditional financing. With data and AI, we can unlock their real potential.
"We are honoured to see strong participation from financing and platform partners in this ecosystem. It proves that the private sector can collaborate meaningfully with the government to drive large-scale impact for MSMEs."