The Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), through SME Corp Malaysia, has launched the SINAR Programme, a RM205 million initiative aimed at strengthening the resilience and growth of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) across the country.
The programme introduces five key initiatives, including financing facilities, grants and business support measures, designed to help entrepreneurs overcome financial challenges, improve competitiveness and expand their operations.
According to Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim Chee Keong, the initiative seeks to ensure MSMEs have access to the resources needed to navigate ongoing economic uncertainties and seize growth opportunities.
“In the face of global economic uncertainty, the government cannot allow MSMEs to confront these challenges alone,” he said.
Five Initiatives Under the SINAR Programme
The SINAR Programme (Program Sokongan Industri dan Perniagaan Rakyat) comprises three financing schemes, a business scaling grant programme and discounted MSME certification fees.
1. SME Easy Financing Scheme (SFSME 2.0)
The scheme offers financing ranging from RM50,000 to RM5 million for business expansion, asset acquisition and working capital requirements.
Implemented in collaboration with Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF), the financing carries a profit rate of 5% per annum based on monthly balances.
2. SME Capacity and Capability Enhancement Scheme (BAP)
Developed with microLEAP, the BAP scheme provides financing between RM500,000 and RM1.5 million to help businesses strengthen operations and manage cash flow.
Term financing is available at 5% per annum, while invoice financing rates range between 0.5% and 0.7% per month.
3. PRESTIGE 2.0 Financing Scheme
Targeted at high-growth SMEs, the scheme offers financing from RM500,000 to RM1 million through a partnership with Funding Societies.
Businesses can enjoy financing rates as low as 3% per annum, while invoice financing is available at 0.5% per month. Companies with strong repayment records may also qualify for rebates of up to 30%.
4. Inclusive Business Scaling Programme
The programme supports SMEs seeking to adopt inclusive business models and strengthen supply chain participation.
Eligible businesses can receive grants of up to RM200,000, with funding support covering up to 90% of eligible costs for development and training initiatives.
5. 50% Discount on MSME Status Certification
To encourage more businesses to obtain official MSME recognition, SME Corp Malaysia is offering a 50% discount on MSME Status Certification applications from June to August 2026.
The certification is often required when applying for government grants, financing facilities and other support programmes.
Supporting MSME Growth
The launch of the SINAR Programme comes as many businesses continue to face challenges from rising costs, economic uncertainty and supply chain disruptions.
With financing of up to RM5 million, grants of up to RM200,000, and a range of business support measures, the programme is expected to provide much-needed assistance for Malaysian MSMEs looking to strengthen operations, improve resilience and pursue long-term growth.
More information on the SINAR Programme is available at www.smecorp.gov.my.
