TEKUN Nasional Disburses RM816 Million, Strengthening MSMEs and Community-Based Economy in East Malaysia
By Mohd Khairy Abdullah @ DG Henry
KOTA BELUD (Sabah, Malaysia), October 3, 2025 – Malaysia continues to strengthen its micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ecosystem as TEKUN Nasional disbursed RM816 million in financing to more than 30,000 entrepreneurs nationwide between January and September this year. The initiative is seen as part of the government’s broader strategy to bolster domestic economic resilience and bridge development gaps in rural regions.
Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Datuk Ewon Benedick, stressed that the financing not only boosts household income, but also creates jobs, strengthens local supply chains, and stimulates community-level economies.
“In Sabah alone, RM95 million was channelled to 4,150 entrepreneurs, while Kota Belud received RM9.1 million across 287 local entrepreneurs. This underscores TEKUN Nasional’s critical role in supporting the socio-economic transformation of rural communities,” he said during the closing of the Entrepreneur Financing Briefing by TEKUN Nasional in Taginambur, Kota Belud, today.
A key highlight is the Tamu Entrepreneur Financing Scheme (SPUT), introduced by Ewon in 2023 specifically for entrepreneurs in Sabah and Sarawak. The scheme has recorded exceptional performance, with a repayment rate of 99.5% and a non-performing loan (NPL) rate of just 0.5% – far outperforming the industry average for micro-credit.
“This achievement reflects the financial discipline and accountability of local entrepreneurs, positioning SPUT as a micro-financing model that can be showcased internationally,” Ewon noted.
Ewon also emphasized the importance of integrating Sabah and Sarawak’s interests within the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13). He has submitted proposals to the Ministry of Finance to ensure that East Malaysia continues to benefit from tailored entrepreneurial programmes.
“National economic development must be balanced and inclusive. Sabah and Sarawak are not only rich in natural resources but also home to entrepreneurial talent that deserves continued empowerment through financing, training, and market access,” he said.
Ewon reiterated that MSMEs remain the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, making significant contributions to GDP, job creation, and domestic market resilience.
“The biggest challenge for rural entrepreneurs is access to financing and comprehensive training. TEKUN Nasional’s role is crucial in bridging this gap and ensuring that entrepreneurs can grow sustainably,” he said.
The programme also introduced other financing schemes such as the Informal & Micro Financing Scheme (SPIM) alongside SPUT, catering to diverse segments of entrepreneurs.
The event was also attended by TEKUN Nasional’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Adam Abdul Ghani, together with senior officials of the agency.
