Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) is taking significant steps to enhance the socio-economic status of the Indian community in Malaysia. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) and focuses on structured training, digital transformation, and improved access to financing.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, the deputy minister of KUSKOP, emphasized that the strategy aims to keep the Indian community competitive in the economic mainstream. It also seeks to accelerate social mobility and reduce the income gap, in line with the Malaysia MADANI agenda. In 2025, the National Entrepreneurship Institute (INSKEN) will partner with the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA) to launch the Malaysian Indian Community Entrepreneurship Programme (MICEP).

Ramanan highlighted that MICEP will offer entrepreneurship training and mentoring through INSKEN, while MITRA will provide grants to eligible participants. During a session at the Dewan Negara, he explained the government's initiatives under the 13MP to assist Indian micro and small entrepreneurs in accessing training, digitalization, and financing.

He further revealed that 450 participants have been selected to join the Basic Entrepreneurship Course and the Basic Product and Service Development Course (KAKAPPS) under MICEP. Successful participants will receive an intensive four-month mentoring session through the INSKEN Business Coaching (IBC) Programme and a business grant of up to RM20,000 each. Additionally, TEKUN Nasional has established a TikTok Shop Studio for entrepreneurs to conduct live-streaming sessions using advanced technology.

Ramanan expressed confidence that these initiatives would bolster the Indian community's role in economic development, fostering social mobility, reducing income disparities, and contributing to a more prosperous and equitable society under the Malaysia MADANI framework.