Latest news with #Mintred
Borneo Post
21-07-2025
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Naroden: PBB power struggle claims seek to undermine party unity, leadership
Datuk Naroden Majais – File photo GEDONG (July 21): Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais has dismissed a news portal's recent report claiming a power struggle within Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and the state leadership, calling it 'unfounded and irresponsible'. The Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred) advisor in a statement yesterday said such claim appears to be an attempt to stir unrest within Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) and its backbone party PBB. 'These allegations are baseless and seem to be aimed at undermining the harmony and unity among the leadership of PBB,' he said. He stressed that there has never been any discussion or statement from any state leaders—whether among assemblymen or Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg himself—indicating any push for a leadership transition as alleged by certain quarters. 'I meet Abang Johari two to three times a month to discuss the needs and development of Gedong and as Mintred advisor, I also frequently engage with Deputy Premier and Mintred Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan on issues related to entrepreneurship and industrial development. 'I see both these leaders as strong, capable individuals who command full support from the state cabinet. 'Team Abang Jo' is functioning excellently, which not only instils pride among Sarawakians but also reflects a positive image for Malaysia as a whole,' he said. Hence, Mohd Naroden said there was no reason to question PBB's internal decisions as the party leadership has consistently demonstrated commitment and impressive achievements. 'There is absolutely no need to pressure for any leadership change. As proud Sarawakians, we all want to see our state continue to thrive under a proven and capable leadership.'
The Star
02-07-2025
- Business
- The Star
Strengthening Sarawak's export ecosystem
Key dignitaries were among the nearly 300 entrepreneurs and industry players who gathered for Sarawak Export Day 2025 in Kuching. KUALA LUMPUR: The Sarawak Export Day 2025, held at the Imperial Hotel Kuching, concluded with the participation of nearly 300 entrepreneurs and industry players from across the state, reflecting the government's strong commitment to advancing the state's export agenda. This programme was jointly organised by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) and the Sarawak state government through its International Trade, Industry and Investment Ministry (Mintred). The event also received support from strategic partners such as Invest Sarawak Sdn Bhd, Exim Bank and Capital Markets Malaysia. Sarawak Export Day is part of Matrade's ongoing initiative to raise awareness and build the export capabilities of local companies, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the state, to penetrate international markets. The official launch was officiated by the Sarawak Deputy Premier and Mintred Minister Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. Also in attendance were Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and Matrade board member Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah. In conjunction with the programme, two local companies were recognised under Matrade's programme with the Sarawak Best Exporter Award. Iana Corporation Sdn Bhd, a producer of Sarawak layer cakes and biscuits, was awarded Best Exporter in the MSME Category, while Tuong Aik Shipyard Sdn Bhd, a shipbuilding and repair engineering company, received the award in the Mid-Tier Company (MTC) Category. 'Sarawak has high export potential. We are seeing increased participation by companies in Matrade's export development programmes and this must continue to ensure more entrepreneurs in the state can compete globally,' said Reezal Merican. According to Reezal Merican, the organisation of such programmes reflects the Federal Government's strong commitment to building a more inclusive and resilient export ecosystem. He noted that Sarawak is now on a solid path toward export development, with growing participation of companies in Matrade's programmes. 'Sarawak has high export potential. We are seeing increased participation by companies in Matrade's export development programmes and this must continue to ensure more entrepreneurs in the state can compete globally,' he added. Reezal Merican also emphasised that Matrade will continue to serve as a facilitator for exporters through business matching initiatives, export promotion and capacity building. 'From 2024 to May 2025, a total of 382 companies from Sarawak were supported under Matrade's export development and promotion programmes, generating nearly RM1bil in export value,' he added. The state-level Export Day serves as an important platform to strengthen public-private collaboration in driving export growth. Key activities over the two days included engagement sessions, business matching, export clinics and technical briefings involving government agencies and financial institutions. Following Sarawak, Matrade will continue its Export Day series in other states, including Selangor and Negeri Sembilan, scheduled for August 2025. This effort is part of a national initiative to broaden local companies' participation in global markets while supporting the country's export growth in an inclusive and sustainable manner.
Borneo Post
02-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak posts RM16.8 bln trade surplus in Q1 2025, says Awang Tengah
Awang Tengah (centre) applauds after symbolically launching Sarawak Export Day 2025 by lighting up the event's symbol during today's ceremony. Also present are Mussen (fourth right), Reezal (fourth left), and other officials. KUCHING (July 2): Sarawak recorded a trade surplus of RM16.8 billion in the first quarter of 2025, maintaining strong economic momentum amid global uncertainties, said Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan. Citing official figures, the International Trade, Industry and Investment Minister said the state's exports in 2024 rose by 2.3 per cent to RM133.8 billion, driven mainly by key commodities such as liquefied natural gas, crude petroleum, and crude palm oil. He also revealed that imports increased by 3.1 per cent to RM64.5 billion, while the state's trade surplus expanded by 1.5 per cent to RM69.3 billion. 'Building on this, the first quarter of 2025 has shown continued strength with a RM16.8 billion trade surplus, reflecting Sarawak's steady momentum,' he said during his keynote address at the launching ceremony of Sarawak Export Day 2025 held at a local hotel here today. The event was jointly organised by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment Sarawak (Mintred) and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade). Awang Tengah said that Sarawak's trade performance continues to be a pillar of economic growth, showing resilience despite the challenging global environment. He also said the state government is committed to transforming the state's economy by shifting from raw commodity exports towards value-added products, in line with the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy 2030 He highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships with trade agencies and industrial players to unlock access to regional and global markets. Awang Tengah said Sarawak currently has trade offices in Singapore and Brunei, with a new office set to open in Pontianak to further strengthen regional connectivity. 'We are laying the groundwork for advanced manufacturing, green economy initiatives and digital-based exports. Our aim is to make Sarawak an export-ready economy that is innovative, inclusive and sustainable. 'The federal and Sarawak governments stand ready to support both large exporters and MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) through agencies such as Mintred, Matrade and SME Corp Malaysia,' he said. He also revealed that since 2021, interest subsidy schemes have benefited over 3,300 MSMEs with RM75.5 million in subsidies, while approximately 178,000 entrepreneurs have received RM3.3 billion in financial assistance. Awang Tengah urged Sarawakian businesses to embrace digitalisation and sustainability to remain competitive in the evolving global market. 'We are rich in natural resources, but that alone is not enough. We must equip our people and industries with knowledge, skills and innovation to build a future-ready Sarawak. 'Today's buyers are not just looking at price and quality. They want sustainability and exporters must meet international standards and adopt responsible practices,' he said. Awang Tengah concluded his keynote address by urging exporters to explore emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America, in order to diversify trade partners and reduce dependency on traditional markets. Also present during the event were Deputy Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh, Matrade chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican and other officials. Sarawak Export Day 2025 is part of the state's wider effort to equip local businesses with the tools and knowledge to thrive in global trade and the event gathered industry players, policymakers, and trade experts for knowledge sharing and networking. Awang Tengah exports imports lead Sarawal trade surplus
Borneo Post
28-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak scales up entrepreneur support through skills, grants, digital tools
Awang Tengah (fourth right) prepares to officiate at SUS 2025, witnessed by (from left) Iskandar, Ripin, Malcolm, Asfia, Naroden, Pang and Dzulkornain. BINTULU (June 28): The Sarawak government remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing entrepreneurial development across the state. According to Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, the state administration is actively building entrepreneurial capacity through initiatives focused on essential skills such as accounting fundamentals and digital proficiency. He added that between 2021 and April 2025, the State Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred), together with state and federal agencies, had implemented over 930 capacity-building programmes that had benefitted more than 73,000 entrepreneurs throughout Sarawak. 'Access to business assistance, whether financial or advisory, is crucial for entrepreneurs to start, sustain and grow their ventures,' said Awang Tengah, also the state Minister of Natural Resources and Urban Development, in his opening remarks for the Showcase Usahawan Sarawak (SUS) 2025 at Times Square Megamall here on Friday. The event, which concludes today, was jointly organised by Mintred and its strategic partners. Also present at the opening ceremony were Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; Deputy Minister for Mintred, Datuk Dr Malcolm Mussen Lamoh; Deputy State Minister for Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development, Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat; assemblymen Iskandar Turkee (Jepak) and Johnny Pang (Tanjong Batu), as well as Mintred advisor Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais and its permanent secretary Dzulkornain Masron. Adding on, Awang Tengah said the Sarawak government had rolled out extensive support programmes through Mintred, as well as departments and agencies including the Department of Agriculture Sarawak, Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC), and Sarawak Timber Industry Development Corporation (STIDC). 'Mintred alone has channelled RM204 million in assistance to more than 41,800 MSMEs (micro small-and-medium enterprises) in Sarawak under various programmes including the Graduate Towards Entrepreneurship (GERAK) and Technical and Vocational Entrepreneurs (USTEV) , which provide grants of up to RM20,000 to graduates and skilled school-leavers to help them start up and expand their businesses. 'The government also runs the Go Digital programme, offering grants of up to RM10,000 to facilitate the purchase of digital hardware, software and services. 'The Sarawak Micro Credit Scheme (SKMS) provides financial assistance for MSMEs to expand their operations, while the Small and Medium Industry Loan Scheme (SPIKS) supports Bumiputera-owned SMEs in obtaining working capital, purchasing equipment, or renovating business premises. 'Additionally, the 'Jum REGISTA Bisnes', implemented by Mintred in collaboration with other agencies, has helped register 4,280 informal entrepreneurs into the formal business sector.' Awang Tengah thus called upon Sarawak entrepreneurs to actively seize the opportunities offered through these government initiatives to grow and future-proof their businesses. 'To date, over 178,000 entrepreneurs in Sarawak have received support from both state and federal agencies, amounting to more than RM3.3 billion. These efforts will continue to ensure our entrepreneurs thrive and scale up their ventures.' Meanwhile, a total of RM1,556,000 was disbursed to the participants of entrepreneurial assistance, in connection with SUS 2025 here. On the showcase, Awang Tengah highlighted it as a platform not only to showcase and market quality products from across Sarawak's districts and divisions, but also to connect local entrepreneurs with wider markets. 'The 2024 SUS editions in Miri and AEON Mall Tebrau City in Johor Bahru generated RM17.7 million in combined sales, with participation from 100 Sarawakian entrepreneurs. 'One standout success story from SUS in Miri is Watiza Agrofarm Sdn Bhd, a company that produces salted duck eggs. Through business-matching sessions, they achieved RM1 million in potential sales,' he said. Watiza Agrofarm further raised Sarawak's profile at the national level when, on Jan 20 this year, it emerged as a winner in the Rural Business Challenge (RBC) 2.0, organised by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW), which earned it a business grant of RM500,000. The SUS 2025 event also involved the participation of six major retail chains – Emart, Everrise, AEON, Doremart, Mydin, and Mari Mart – with projected sales of RM3 million. In addition, Mintred, in collaboration with the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation (SDEC), had set up a 'live streaming booth' to enable entrepreneurs promote and sell their products online via TikTok Shop live sessions. Other activities include the 'Kamek Digital Entrepreneurial Transformation Course' at Promenade Hotel Bintulu, which signed up over 150 participants, as well as an embroidery workshop held on the main SUS stage. The next SUS is scheduled to take place at Queensbay Mall in Penang this Aug 28 until Sept 1. Awang Tengah entrepreneurial development Mintred
Borneo Post
20-06-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Registration still open for Export Day Sarawak 2025 at Imperial Hotel Kuching
According to the organiser, the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred), the deadline for registration is June 30. — Bernama photo KUCHING (June 21): Registration is still open for Sarawak-based entrepreneurs to participate in the Export Day Sarawak 2025, which will take place at Imperial Hotel here on July 2-3. The event will run from 8.30am till 5.30pm daily, with free admissions for all Sarawak micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). According to the organiser, the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment (Mintred), the deadline for registration is June 30. 'Are you a Sarawak-based entrepreneur ready to take your business global? Join us at Export Day Sarawak 2025, a two-day event designed to empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to succeed in international markets,' said the ministry in a statement yesterday. Participants can gain insights into export readiness strategies, trade finance options for MSMEs, leveraging free trade agreements (FTAs), logistics support, pricing strategies and legal compliance. The programme also covers advice on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) practices for sustainable exports and the use of digital platforms for market expansion. In addition, the event will feature the unveiling of real success stories from Sarawak exporters and a town hall session with Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, who is also the Minister of International Trade, Industry and Investment. The event is organised by Mintred in collaboration with Invest Sarawak and the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade), with strategic partners including Affin Bank, Maybank, Redly Express, Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC). The ministry said participants must attend both days to receive an e-certificate. Confirmation of participation will be emailed to successful applicants. Interested MSMEs are encouraged to register early to secure their spot by clicking the link: Export Day Sarawak 2025 Imperial Hotel lead registration
