Kuala lumpur: Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Bhd (SME Bank) has announced a significant achievement in its 2025 financial performance, with total approved financing reaching RM4.3 billion, representing a 19 percent year-on-year increase.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, relief president and chief executive officer Samad Majid Zain stated that the bank's 2025 performance underscores its commitment to strengthening Malaysia's micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) ecosystem. Of the total approved financing, approximately RM3.8 billion was directed towards MSMEs, marking a 20 percent increase from the previous year. Samad highlighted that over 60 percent of customers received financing of RM1 million and below, emphasizing the bank's focus on enhancing access for underserved and unserved entrepreneurs.

Samad further noted that the government's confidence in the bank is evident, with nearly RM2 billion allocated in strategic initiatives under Budget 2026. These initiatives aim to accelerate inclusive MSME growth and bolster enterprise resilience across the economy. Beyond financing, the bank has also provided integrated solutions, including capacity building and targeted advisory support, benefiting over 14,500 entrepreneurs through various initiatives last year.

The bank's efforts contribute significantly to Malaysia's MSME ecosystem, which accounts for nearly 40 percent of the country's gross domestic product, equivalent to over RM650 billion in economic value. This highlights the sector's vital role in promoting inclusive growth, employment, and economic resilience. The bank has observed sustained demand across key strategic sectors, such as bumiputera development, technology and innovation, digital adoption, climate-resilient initiatives, the halal industry, and tourism, aligning with Bank Negara Malaysia's Performance Measurement Framework and the MADANI Economic Framework.