Micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) entrepreneurs are being urged to change their mindset and accelerate the adoption of technology and sustainable governance practices to remain competitive in today’s economy.
Rizal Datuk Nainy, Chief Executive Officer of SME Corp Malaysia, said digital transformation has become a key factor in business survival.
“Entrepreneurs must view digitalisation as a core necessity in business operations, not just an option. Without it, businesses risk falling behind — not only in profitability but also in efficient and systematic business management,” he said during the PuTERA35 programme.
He also highlighted the growing importance of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices, which are increasingly valued in the global business ecosystem.
“Multinational corporations and high-performing companies now require ESG reporting as a condition for participation in their supply chains. Major buyers today expect SMEs to provide disclosure reports as part of business collaboration requirements,” he explained.
Meanwhile, Nadira Yusoff, CEO of Kiddocare, noted that technology adoption also enables companies to create broader social impact.
“Every service provided by our childcare platform supports not only families in need but also creates employment opportunities for caregivers. Each service impacts two lives — the family receiving care and the caregiver earning an income,” she said.
She added that business expansion is not just about increasing the number of clients but also about ensuring that the community of caregivers grows alongside the platform.
