Kuala Lumpur:The Malaysian Association of Malay Entrepreneurs and Traders (PERDASAMA) has proposed that the government establish a coordinated access mechanism to ensure Bumiputera micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) can fully benefit from the various allocations and initiatives outlined in Budget 2027.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, PERDASAMA's president, Mohd Azamanizam Baharon, emphasized the need for a mechanism involving business associations to clarify eligibility requirements, application channels, and processing timelines. This would facilitate better monitoring and measurement of impact based on approved financing, contracts secured, jobs created, and overall business growth.
Mohd Azamanizam expressed concern over the persistent challenges faced by Bumiputera entrepreneurs in accessing financing, contract opportunities, and various supportive facilities. He noted that despite previous budget cycles, difficulties remain, leading some to turn to alternative financing options that come with higher costs and risks.
He also called on government-linked companies (GLCs) and government-linked investment companies (GLICs) to expand opportunities for capable Bumiputera companies to become main contractors. He advocated for transparent and fair selection processes to advance the Bumiputera vendor agenda from mere participation to capacity building and sustainable business growth.
Furthermore, Mohd Azamanizam recommended that the government consider re-establishing a dedicated Bumiputera banking institution. This would complement the existing financial ecosystem and assist promising entrepreneurs who face constraints related to collateral, financial records, working capital, or the length of business operations.
PERDASAMA highlighted the importance of proactive involvement from ministries, departments, financial institutions, and the approximately 80 agencies with Bumiputera development mandates in helping entrepreneurs access available facilities. The association welcomed Budget 2027 initiatives such as microfinancing facilities of up to RM6.6 billion, a procurement target of up to RM58 billion from Bumiputera companies by GLCs and PETRONAS, and up to RM1 billion in funding through TERAJU.
Additional measures included the Bumiputera Ciptawan Fund of up to RM250 million, a RM100 million strategic investment fund for the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors, and matching grants for MSMEs seeking halal certification. Mohd Azamanizam affirmed PERDASAMA's readiness to collaborate with the government and implementing agencies to help entrepreneurs access these facilities and measure their effectiveness through business growth.