Zahid proposes global fund to boost women entrepreneurs' access to capital

New Straits Times

3 days ago

KUALA LUMPUR: The Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) should spearhead the coordination of a global women's empowerment fund, aimed at supporting high-potential female entrepreneurs who face limited access to capital.
This proposal is among five initiatives identified as necessary to address the ongoing challenges encountered by women in business.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the proposed fund should prioritise areas such as export certification, participation in international trade expos, global branding and logistical support.
"The government remains committed to empowering women as agents of change by providing a holistic support ecosystem, enabling them to contribute significantly to the nation's economic growth.
"We frequently hear how women entrepreneurs face difficulties securing financing due to insufficient financial guarantees and gender stereotypes in the banking sector.
"This situation inevitably restricts the growth of women-led businesses," he said during his speech at the 2025 Women in Export Forum here today.
Present were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Umno's Women and Family Affairs Council (Hawa) chairman Tan Sri Shahrizat and Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.
Zahid also called on Hawa, Miti and Matrade not only to expand women's participation in strategic sectors but also to serve as facilitators for female entrepreneurs.
He said this would allow them to expand further and receive appropriate support from various stakeholders, including financial institutions and facility providers.
Other proposed initiatives include the establishment of a Women Export Incubator, a one-stop centre offering a supportive ecosystem for female entrepreneurs aspiring to break into international markets.
"This incubator should offer export mentorship, international certification training, co-working spaces and digital business clinics, particularly aimed at supporting women from rural areas and the B40 group.
"I also propose the establishment of a women's economic hero award to honour women who have made a significant impact in the fields of trade, technology, halal industry and regional exports.
"This award would not only serve as a source of inspiration but could also become a platform for economic diplomacy and enhance Malaysia's branding on the world stage," he said.
Zahid said Miti must also take the lead in launching a Green Trade for Women Programme, to train and support women in producing environmentally friendly products that comply with environmental, social and governance principles.
Among others, he said Miti must harness the potential of technical and vocational education and training as a key platform to enhance women's skills across various sectors, including technology and entrepreneurship.
When asked whether the proposals would be brought to the cabinet, Zahid expressed confidence that Tengku Zafrul would elevate the matter to ministerial level for implementation.
"All five proposals have solid merit, particularly regarding financing for women entrepreneurs specifically, as well as the women's economic award.
"The other two proposals are interrelated, and I believe both (the Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Ministry) and Miti should be given the opportunity to further develop women entrepreneurs, particularly those focused on manufacturing export products," he said.