KUCHING: Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (Bank Islam) has launched its third iTEKAD Entrepreneurs Hub at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak Branch, continuing its mission to empower local microentrepreneurs, particularly from the asnaf and B40 communities.
The hub serves as a one-stop training and guidance centre, following similar openings at University College Bestari (UCB) in Setiu, Terengganu; and the Institute of Poverty Research and Management (InsPek), Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK); on Aug 5 and Nov 11, respectively.
The launch, held during the Sarawak Financial Literacy Carnival at Vivacity Megamall, Kuching, on Nov 16, was officiated by UiTM Sarawak acting rector Associate Professor Dr Mohammad Isa Mohamadin and Bank Islam Group chief executive officer Dato Mohd Muazzam Mohamed.
The collaboration between Bank Islam and selected higher learning institutions forms part of the bank痴 Local Community Development Initiatives, aimed at equipping microentrepreneurs with practical skills to enhance business resiliency.
Training includes financial management, digital marketing, technical product development, and networking, crucial for building sustainable businesses.
“This initiative also benefits students and lecturers by providing opportunities to upskill and gain experience through nurturing iTEKAD customers in their community, creating a holistic impact for all parties involved,” said Muazzam.
Since 2021, the iTEKAD programme has channelled over RM30 million to nearly 1,600 microentrepreneurs.
With the establishment of hubs like those at UiTM Sarawak, UMK and UCB, Bank Islam aims to make its services more accessible, reducing the need for entrepreneurs to travel to Kuala Lumpur for support.
Bank Islam plans to open two more iTEKAD hubs by the end of 2024, further expanding its mission of financial inclusivity and fostering a dynamic entrepreneurship ecosystem.
In addition, the bank announced the introduction of the iTEKAD BangKIT initiative for Sarawak痴 fishermen, featuring the Solar Drying Dome (SDD) technology.
This programme, in collaboration with the Fisheries Development Authority of Malaysia (LKIM), Sarawak Islamic Council (MIS) and local fisheries associations, provides financial support, training and matching grants for SDD procurement.The SDD offers a faster, cleaner seafood drying p
rocess while preserving nutritional value, ensuring products meet halalan tayyiban standards.
The initiative targets 30 asnaf fishermen in Sarawak, Terengganu and Kelantan as its initial beneficiaries.
“Our main goal is to establish a robust ecosystem that supports the growth and success of microbusinesses through the provision of resources, fostering collaboration among various stakeholders and enhancing innovation as well as economic development,” added Muazzam.
