Johor: Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) continue to play a key role as the backbone of the national economy, accounting for 97 percent of all business transactions in Malaysia, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. He emphasized the significant contribution of MSMEs to the country's economic framework at a recent event.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) highlight that the MSME sector not only drives economic growth but also accounts for approximately 52 percent of the gross domestic product (GDP). Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, noted that MSMEs are pivotal in job creation, generating over 50 percent of employment opportunities across the nation.

He shared these insights while speaking to reporters after officiating at the Rural and Regional Development Ministry's (KKDW) GEMA @ KKDW Rural Entrepreneurs Aspiration programme in Johor. The event was attended by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, among other dignitaries.

Ahmad Zahid further elaborated on the government's commitment to enhancing the MSME sector's competitiveness by allocating up to RM40 billion for local entrepreneurs. He commended the proactive initiatives of the Johor state government, which have been instrumental in nurturing more MSME entrepreneurs and fueling the state's industrial and economic development.

He highlighted Johor's impressive 8 percent growth rate, which surpasses the national average of 5.2 percent, as a testament to the state government's effective policies in attracting investment and boosting economic activities. "This is a strong achievement, supported by political stability and good leadership in Johor," he remarked.