Kuala lumpur: The government is stepping up efforts to enhance Langkawi's domestic and international connectivity to empower the resort island's economy and strengthen the competitiveness of its small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan emphasized the importance of transforming Langkawi into a multifaceted economic hub, beyond its established identity as a tourism destination. The minister disclosed plans to engage with airline companies to boost flight frequencies to Langkawi and to improve ferry services in collaboration with the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA).

He shared insights from a recent engagement session with Langkawi's SME entrepreneurs, highlighting their concerns over challenges like tax procedures and business expansion barriers. During this session, he underscored the government's commitment to addressing these issues to aid local businesses.

Earlier in the day, the Finance Ministry donated RM700,000 worth of medical equipment to the Sultanah Maliha Hospital, an initiative led by Amir Hamzah. As co-chairman of LADA, he voiced the local entrepreneurs' desire for streamlined tax and import-export processes to bolster their market competitiveness.

The minister affirmed a collaborative effort with LADA and the Royal Malaysian Customs Department to simplify these processes, aiming to enhance the competitiveness of Langkawi's entrepreneurs in both local and international markets.

He also informed the SME community about government support schemes, especially microfinancing options, designed to facilitate their business growth. Highlighting the island's digital economy potential, Amir Hamzah mentioned initiatives to attract digital nomads, thereby further boosting Langkawi's economic landscape.

Concluding his address, he expressed optimism that these strategies would enhance the SME sectors in Langkawi, particularly those involved in handicrafts, food products, and other local goods, aligning with the overarching goal of improving Langkawi's accessibility and competitiveness as a regional hub.