Kuala lumpur: Recent people-focused initiatives announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim are expected to positively support Malaysia's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), particularly by easing operational costs.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick highlighted that continued fuel subsidies for RON95 at RM1.99 per litre, along with the deferment of toll hikes on 10 highways, will benefit MSMEs that rely heavily on transportation and logistics, especially in rural areas. "MSMEs will feel the impact directly, as many depend on travel between rural and urban areas for sourcing materials and delivering products," Benedick stated on Bernama Radio's Reaksi segment titled 'Appreciation for the People, Proof of Government's Concern'.

He further noted that the one-off RM100 cash aid for all Malaysians aged 18 and above under the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) programme, and increased allocation for the MADANI Rahmah Sales initiative, would further stimulate domestic spending. Benedick also encouraged Malaysians to take advantage of the additional public holiday on September 15, announced in conjunction with Malaysia Day, to travel locally.

"Support cooperative-run destinations and rural tourism ventures driven by MSME communities. There's plenty of local beauty and economic potential waiting to be explored," he said. The ministry, he added, will continue promoting cooperative-based tourism through platforms such as the National Cooperative Day celebration in Melaka, which runs from tomorrow until Sunday.