ALOR SETAR, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- A total of 1,172 entrepreneurs in Kedah benefited from RM20.11 million in grant assistance channelled by the Kedah Regional Development Authority (KEDA) from 2023 to last year.
KEDA chairman Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid said the assistance was part of the agency’s efforts to strengthen the capabilities of entrepreneurs, particularly those operating businesses in rural areas.
“This assistance is aimed at enhancing entrepreneurs’ capabilities and strengthening the foundations of their businesses,” he said at the KEDA Entrepreneur Appreciation Ceremony here last night.
Mahdzir said KEDA had also allocated RM6.87 million this year for the continuation of various entrepreneurship development programmes in Kedah.
According to him, the allocation covers various initiatives, including training and mentoring programmes, product labelling and promotion, business equipment assistance, and participation in expos and exhibitions.
“All these initiatives are designed to help entrepreneurs enhance their knowledge, strengthen their skills and branding, and expand the market reach of their products,” he said.
As part of efforts to create a more conducive business ecosystem, Mahdzir said KEDA had made 528 business premises available for rent to entrepreneurs, with 466 already rented out.
Of the total, he said 223 were shops and stalls, 148 were Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) workshops, one was a commercial business premise and seven were industrial land lots, while the remaining 149 units comprised SME premises and shops managed by KEDA subsidiaries.
“These premises provide entrepreneurs with a more organised and conducive environment to operate and expand their businesses,” he said.
Meanwhile, Mahdzir urged rural entrepreneurs to enhance their capabilities and readiness to navigate the increasingly dynamic and challenging business landscape.
He said entrepreneurs should not focus solely on sustaining their existing operations, but should also be bold in expanding their businesses and venturing into new markets.
“Entrepreneurs need to leverage digital marketing techniques to expand their market reach at a lower cost.
“Entrepreneurs must look beyond traditional business methods by actively promoting their products and businesses through digital platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, as well as e-commerce platforms like Shopee and Lazada,” he said.
--BERNAMA