Kuantan: The National Entrepreneur and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Council (MPUPK) is taking a proactive approach by engaging directly with SMEs to gather feedback on challenges arising from the West Asia conflict.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MPUPK's special adviser, Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, recently met with SME operators in the northern region to discuss various views and suggestions. During the meeting, practical suggestions were shared, while others require further study. These proposals will be brought to a higher level for consideration before any decision is made by the government. Wan Rosdy shared these insights with reporters after the SPM 2025 Incentive Award Ceremony for Maahad Tahfiz Negeri Pahang (MTNP) and Maahad Tahfiz Turath Negeri Pahang (MTTNP).

Wan Rosdy, who is also the Pahang Menteri Besar, advised SMEs to adopt cost-saving measures and reduce operating expenses. He suggested that some businesses might consider home-based operations to manage financial pressures more effectively, acknowledging that while not all businesses are suitable for this model, it could benefit some.

In response to a proposal by the Pahang Youth Council to restructure TikTok Shop charges to alleviate the burden on SMEs facing rising costs, Wan Rosdy agreed that it was a reasonable suggestion worth examining. Pahang Youth Council president Saharuddin Ahmad highlighted that platform fees, estimated between 20 and 25 percent, are affecting profit margins.

In addition to addressing SME concerns, Wan Rosdy commented on efforts to improve facilities for students to ensure that Pahang continues to achieve strong SPM results annually. At the award ceremony, 66 students from MTNP and MTTNP who excelled in their SPM exams were honored, each receiving RM1,000 from the state government and RM500 from Yayasan Pahang.