GEORGE TOWN: The Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA) will intensify its efforts to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the country, in improving their compliance with environmental social and governance (ESG) standards.
Its President Datuk William Ng said many SMEs still struggle with meeting these essential standards which are crucial for maintaining competitiveness in the industry.
“There are numerous issues requiring SAMENTA’s attention but ESG compliance is a particularly pressing one. We aim to support SMEs in addressing this challenge, by enhancing their understanding and knowledge of ESG requirements,” he said.
In addition to ESG compliance, Ng highlighted that a major issue faced by SMEs both in Penang and nationwide is low productivity. Many SMEs still operate below the productivity levels seen in larger companies.
Commenting further, he noted that various forms of assistance have been provided to help SMEs increase productivity, including through the SME digitalisation programme. This initiative, in collaboration with the Penang government during the Covid-19 pandemic, supported 1,000 SMEs with donations to implement digital solutions in their businesses.
He also mentioned that SAMENTA has over 5,000 members nationwide, while the total number of SMEs in Malaysia is estimated at 1.2 million.
— BERNAMA
