Govt allocates RM360mil to boost rural entrepreneurs
ALOR STAR: The Rural and Regional Development Ministry has allocated RM360.36 million this year to implement 77 rural entrepreneurship programmes nationwide, targeting 27,300 beneficiaries.
Deputy Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Rubiah Wang said the allocation would be channelled to 10 agencies under the ministry, including the Kedah Regional Development Authority (Keda).
"Of the total, Keda is receiving RM4.4 million to run six components under its entrepreneurship development programme across Kedah.
"These include incentives to enhance skilled entrepreneurs, padi field development, rural agriculture projects, and training in skills and organisational management.
"Our aim is not just to produce new entrepreneurs, but also to support their growth through knowledge-sharing, market access and physical facilities such as business premises," she told a press conference at the Keda Entrepreneurs Gathering 2025 here today.
Also present was Keda chairman Datuk Seri Jamil Khir.
Rubiah said since its establishment in 1981, Keda had received RM2.3 billion for comprehensive development efforts across Kedah, covering infrastructure, the economy, human capital and agriculture.
Among its achievements are the construction of 262km of rural roads, the development of 62 new housing settlements, and the provision of 492 business lots to support local entrepreneurs.
"In terms of human capital, Keda has trained over 34,000 participants through 891 short-term courses. Keda College, established in 1989, has produced over 8,400 graduates, with an employability rate of 96.7 per cent.
"Keda does not operate in isolation. We encourage collaboration between ministry agencies to fast-track development efforts. Our goal is not only to produce entrepreneurs, but to shape them into sustainable industry players ready to compete globally," she said.
Rubiah also highlighted key challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs, including a lack of capital, proper business premises, market networks and technical know-how.
These, she said, must be tackled holistically by the government and relevant agencies.
She expressed hope that Keda's 44th anniversary celebration would spark a new wave of growth in the rural entrepreneurship ecosystem, creating more economic and employment opportunities for the people of Kedah.
The event also marked the debut of the Keda Entrepreneur Awards 2025, in conjunction with the agency's anniversary, to honour outstanding entrepreneurs nurtured under its programmes.
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