A more organized approach strengthens the ability of SMEs to penetrate international markets

KUALA LUMPUR, – A more structured approach is needed to help Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) strengthen their business capabilities, especially to penetrate international markets.

Deputy Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said, the opportunity to obtain a large contract or penetrate the international market also requires SMEs to increase their capabilities in terms of manpower, management, investment in equipment and additional financing.

“Entrepreneurship is not just about starting a business, but also building the ability, resilience and confidence to keep the business growing,” he said.

Commenting further, he said the effort can be implemented through the cooperation of all parties, including ministries, agencies and related industry players.

He said, any proposed approach needs to be carefully evaluated based on merit, taking into account existing initiatives as well as the actual needs of the business sector.

He also stressed the importance of getting direct views from entrepreneurs to ensure that support is designed that truly meets their needs.

“A good policy not only needs to take into account what a business needs, but also the real reality faced by those who develop it,” he said.

Datuk Seri Fadillah said that efforts to help SMEs grow sustainably not only benefit the company, but also create job opportunities for young people, increase the income security of local suppliers and open up more career opportunities in the community.

Therefore, he said, the success of a business should not be measured based on the size of the company alone, but also take into account the extent to which its growth is able to provide benefits to society.