PUTRAJAYA, – The Government through the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (MITRA) will seek additional allocations to expand the Uyarvu MADANI Program following the high number of applications received from small entrepreneurs, especially the B40 group.
Human Resources Minister, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said, a total of 8,368 applications were received for the program, but based on the current capacity, around 700 to 780 applicants are expected to receive assistance.
“If the total amount for Phase 1 and Phase 2 is taken into account, we may be able to help about 1,100 to 1,150 entrepreneurs.”
“But the more than 8,000 applications we received is a large number and this clearly shows that many small entrepreneurs, including B40 entrepreneurs who are trying to get ahead, need this help.”
“So, for the next round, we will not only apply for additional allocations, but also look at other resources that can be used. Amanah Ikhtiar has an allocation, TEKUN also has an allocation.”
He said this at the press conference for the Inauguration of the Harmony MADANI and Dharma MADANI Program in Putrajaya.
Ramanan explained that assistance through Uyarvu MADANI is given in the form of grants, in contrast to the facilities through Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia and the Indian Community Entrepreneur Development Scheme (SPUMI) under TEKUN National which are in the form of loans.
For Uyarvu MADANI, the government plans to provide a grant of up to RM50,000 for each applicant, while there are recipients who will receive RM20,000 or RM30,000 based on needs.
Therefore, the selection of recipients will give priority to entrepreneurs who really need help, especially those who do not have the opportunity to get a loan but have a business that has the potential to succeed.
The government will also monitor the recipients to identify any deficiencies and help ensure that their businesses can continue to grow.