Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia approved RM1.6 billion in financing to nearly 185,000 entrepreneurs nationwide in the first half of 2025.
JELEBU: Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) approved RM1.6 billion in financing to nearly 185,000 entrepreneurs nationwide in the first six months of this year.
Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim Chee Keong said the achievement demonstrates the government’s ongoing commitment to empowering micro-entrepreneurs, particularly women and low-income households.
He said efficient and swift disbursement of funds is vital to ensure entrepreneurs can expand their businesses and boost the local economy.
“This shows our determination to ensure financial assistance reaches entrepreneurs directly,” he said at a gathering with TEKUN Nasional and Negeri Sembilan AIM entrepreneurs in Simpang Durian near here today.
Meanwhile, Sim said that at the Negeri Sembilan level alone, AIM approved RM50 million in financing, benefiting about 5,000 entrepreneurs in the state.
He said the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP) will continue to ensure agencies under its purview, such as AIM and TEKUN Nasional, simplify the financing application process and avoid burdensome bureaucracy.
He added that financing applications are approved based on eligibility and business potential, regardless of political background or the need for “cable” connections.
“We want healthy competition among financing agencies as they strive to safeguard the welfare of entrepreneurs, expedite the disbursement of funds, and ensure the people’s economy continues to grow,” he said.
