KUCHING: Sarawak small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and business owners are strongly encouraged to participate in the upcoming Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2023.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said many SMEs from Sarawak were successfully recognised and have been the recipients of the PBA previously.
“Therefore, I strongly encourage Sarawak SMEs and business owners to participate in the Platinum Business Awards 2023 as I believe that SME entrepreneurs, regardless of whether they are from the village or the rural areas, would succeed if they work hard.
“A strong entrepreneurship community will definitely promote innovation and contribute towards the economic development of the Sarawak and the nation,” he said.
He said this in his text of speech read by Deputy Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dr Ripin Lamat during the Sarawak Roadshow for PBA 2023 at Hilton Hotel here yesterday.
Abang Johari also said that Sarawak now has about 89,000 registered SMEs based on last year’s census.
“Such growth is a positive increase in participation by Sarawakians into entrepreneurship,” he said.
He added that the government is always paying attention to SMEs, who are among the key contributors to the country’s economic development.
“The additional special allocation of RM600 million in the 2023 Budget for the SME community in Sabah and Sarawak is a commendable move to further develop SME entrepreneurs in the state.
“I hope that the government could continue to channel more provisions to nurture the growth of Sarawak SMEs.
“The various allocations and help provided by the government will be able to generate SME entrepreneurs who can satisfy the demands of local and international markets, as well as provide more exposure for Sarawak SMEs to business opportunities available locally and abroad,” Abang Johari said.
The PBA 2023 is now open for nomination until August 15, 2023 and the awards presentation ceremony will took place at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) on Nov 10, 2023.
