Helping MSMEs Thrive, Positioning Them Globally to be Competitive in the Market
The Small and Medium Enterprises Corporation Malaysia (SME Corporation Malaysia) is the coordinating agency under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MEDAC) that oversees the implementation of development programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across all relevant ministries and agencies.
It serves as a reference center for research and dissemination of data related to MSMEs and entrepreneurs, providing advisory services for MSMEs and entrepreneurs nationwide. SME Corp. Malaysia coordinates, strengthens, monitors, evaluates the progress, and assesses the effectiveness of MSME development programs implemented by 12 ministries and more than 60 agencies.
“Before joining SME Corporation, I gained exposure to strategic transformation, spending six years under the Prime Minister’s Department. Prior to that, I also served for 16 years at Shell Malaysia and Shell Asia Pacific,” said Mr. Rizal Nainy, Chief Executive Officer of SME Corp.
“As the Chief Executive Officer of SME Corp. Malaysia, my main responsibility is to plan, add value, and implement MSME development programs in line with the 12th Malaysia Plan, National Entrepreneurship Policy (DKN) 2030, and the SME Corp. Malaysia 2022-2030 Business Strategic Plan (BSP), aimed at increasing the contribution of MSMEs to Gross Domestic Product (GDP), exports, and employment,” he added.
“My motivation is driven by the need to create a positive and continuous impact on both the worldly and hereafter aspects of life. To achieve this, I am always thinking of ways to contribute to local MSMEs and the surrounding community,” he said regarding what drives him towards this corporation.
The main challenge for MSMEs is the low productivity level due to the limited adoption of technology and digitization. “MSMEs need to leverage technology in business operations, be more innovative, and diversify products to expand business markets to meet market and consumer demands,” explained the CEO in addressing this challenge.
“MSMEs need to be aware of current trends that emphasize sustainability principles, including environmental, social, and governance (ESG) in business strategies,” he added.
“I extend my sincere thanks to the Muslim Insiders Chamber of Commerce for the ‘The Most Distinguished Leader’ award during the Islamic Distinguished Entrepreneur Award (IDEA) 2023. This award not only recognizes them but also the employees of SME Corp. Malaysia.”
The vision of SME Corp. Malaysia is to be the leading organization driving progressive MSME development, enhancing entrepreneurial capabilities, and strengthening a globally competitive business landscape.
To achieve this, SME Corp. is building a strategic framework that will be implemented over a nine-year period.
