Government disburses RM1.25 billion to 66,992 Sabah entrepreneurs via TEKUN Nasional, reinforcing commitment to micro-enterprise growth.
KOTA KINABALU: The government has disbursed RM1.25 billion in financing to 66,992 entrepreneurs in Sabah through TEKUN Nasional from 1998 until last month.
Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Datuk Seri Ramanan Ramakrisnan said this demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to empowering micro-entrepreneurs in the state.
He revealed that RM137 million was channelled to 5,567 Sabah entrepreneurs across various sectors from January to October 2025.
“The government has always regarded the small and medium enterprises sector and micro industries as key pillars of the nation’s economic development,” Ramanan told reporters after meeting with TEKUN entrepreneurs.
He noted that many TEKUN entrepreneurs in Sabah are involved in small-scale businesses, agriculture, handicrafts, and the food industry.
“These entrepreneurs not only generate income for their families but also create job opportunities and help stimulate the local economy,” he added.
Ramanan emphasised the need for a tailored approach that reflects Sabah’s unique socio-economic characteristics.
TEKUN Nasional has introduced targeted financing schemes including the Tamu Entrepreneur Financing Scheme specifically designed for hawkers and petty traders in local markets.
“This programme reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to ensuring that tamu traders have easier and more suitable access to financing,” he said.
Since its introduction in 2023 until September 2025, the Tamu scheme has channelled RM9.8 million to 2,294 entrepreneurs operating in markets across Sabah.
Ramanan stressed that close cooperation between federal and state governments is vital to ensure development efforts benefit all Sabahans.
“The MADANI Government will continue to ensure that every form of government assistance reaches the intended target groups,” he added. – Bernama
