For many entrepreneurs, securing sufficient capital remains one of the biggest obstacles to growing a business. To help businesses overcome these challenges, the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), through SME Corp Malaysia, has launched the SINAR Programme, a new RM205 million initiative designed to strengthen the resilience of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) nationwide.
The SINAR Programme introduces five new initiatives that provide financing of up to RM5 million, grants of up to RM200,000, and other forms of support to help businesses navigate economic uncertainty and pursue growth opportunities.
According to Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister, YB Steven Sim Chee Keong, the SINAR Programme aims to ensure that entrepreneurs have the financial resources and support needed to survive, expand, and create jobs despite ongoing global economic challenges.
“In the face of global economic uncertainty, the government cannot allow MSMEs to confront these challenges alone.”
What Is The SINAR Programme?
The SINAR Programme (Program Sokongan Industri dan Perniagaan Rakyat) is a business support initiative implemented by SME Corp Malaysia to help MSMEs strengthen their operations and improve long-term competitiveness.
Under the SINAR Programme, entrepreneurs can access three financing schemes, a business scaling grant programme, and discounted MSME certification fees.
Together, these five initiatives form the core of the SINAR Programme’s RM205 million allocation.
1. SME Easy Financing Scheme SFSME 2.0
(Skim Pembiayaan Mudah untuk PKS)
The first initiative under the SINAR Programme is the SME Easy Financing Scheme (SFSME 2.0).
Designed for businesses seeking funding for expansion, asset purchases, or working capital, the scheme offers financing ranging from RM50,000 to RM5 million.
The financing is provided through collaboration with Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad and carries a profit rate of 5% per annum based on monthly balances.
The scheme can be used to purchase machinery, upgrade production capacity, open new branches, or support day-to-day business operations.
2. SME Capacity and Capability Enhancement Scheme (BAP)
(Skim Peningkatan Kapasiti dan Keupayaan PKS)
The second initiative focuses on helping businesses strengthen operational capabilities and manage cash flow requirements.
Implemented together with microLEAP, the SME Capacity and Capability Enhancement Scheme (BAP) offers financing ranging from RM500,000 to RM1.5 million.
The scheme provides term financing at 5% per annum, while invoice financing is available at rates ranging from 0.5% to 0.7% per month.
This facility is particularly useful for businesses that require additional capital while waiting for payments from customers or project owners.
3. PRESTIGE 2.0 Financing Scheme
(Skim Pembiayaan PRESTIGE 2.0)
The PRESTIGE 2.0 Financing Scheme is aimed at high-growth SMEs looking for more competitive financing options.
Through a partnership with Funding Societies, eligible businesses can obtain financing ranging from RM500,000 to RM1 million.
The scheme offers financing rates as low as 3% per annum, together with invoice financing facilities at 0.5% per month.
Businesses that maintain good repayment records may also qualify for rebates of up to 30%, helping to reduce overall financing costs.
4. Inclusive Business Scaling Programme
(Program Penskalaan Perniagaan Inklusif)
In addition to financing, the SINAR Programme also focuses on helping businesses improve their capabilities.
The Inclusive Business Scaling Programme supports SMEs that want to adopt inclusive business models and strengthen their competitiveness.
The programme helps businesses integrate inclusive communities into their supply chains while supporting micro-enterprises in developing new skills and expanding their operations.
Eligible participants may receive grants of up to RM200,000, depending on the development and training programmes undertaken.
The initiative also provides funding support of up to 90% of eligible costs.
5. 50% Discount On MSME Status Certification
(Sijil Akuan Status PMKS Dengan Diskaun 50%)
The fifth initiative under the SINAR Programme offers a 50% discount on MSME Status Certification applications.
The certification serves as official recognition that a business meets Malaysia’s definition of a micro, small, or medium enterprise and is often required when applying for government assistance programmes, financing schemes, grants, and incentives.
The promotional discount is available from June until August 2026, giving more businesses an opportunity to obtain the certification at a lower cost.
Why The SINAR Programme Matters
The launch of the SINAR Programme comes at a time when many businesses are facing increasing pressure from rising costs, global economic uncertainty, and supply chain disruptions.
According to Steven Sim, access to capital remains one of the most pressing concerns among entrepreneurs, particularly those looking to expand or improve their operations.
With financing of up to RM5 million, grants of up to RM200,000, and additional business support measures, the SINAR Programme is expected to provide much-needed assistance for Malaysian MSMEs seeking to strengthen their resilience and unlock future growth opportunities.
For entrepreneurs struggling with cash flow, expansion plans, or access to financing, the SINAR Programme could be one of the most significant business support initiatives introduced this year.
Visit www.smecorp.gov.my for more info.
Sources: 1| 2
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