Simpang durian: Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) has approved RM1.6 billion in financing to nearly 185,000 entrepreneurs across the nation in the first half of this year. Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim Chee Keong emphasized the government's ongoing commitment to empowering micro-entrepreneurs, particularly targeting women and low-income households, during a recent gathering.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Sim highlighted the importance of efficient and swift disbursement of funds to ensure that entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and contribute to the growth of the local economy. "This shows our determination to ensure financial assistance reaches entrepreneurs directly," he stated at a meeting with TEKUN Nasional and Negeri Sembilan AIM entrepreneurs in Simpang Durian.

In Negeri Sembilan alone, AIM has approved RM50 million in financing, benefiting approximately 5,000 entrepreneurs. Minister Sim reiterated that the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) will continue to streamline the financing application process within its agencies, such as AIM and TEKUN Nasional, to avoid cumbersome bureaucracy.

Financing applications are assessed based on eligibility and business potential, without regard to political affiliations or the need for "cable" connections, Sim assured. "We want healthy competition among financing agencies as they strive to safeguard the welfare of entrepreneurs, expedite the disbursement of funds, and ensure the people's economy continues to grow," he added, reinforcing the government's dedication to economic development and entrepreneurship support.