Latest news with #PlatinumBusinessAwards


New Straits Times
26-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
SME awards roadshow in Sarawak drawn over 150 key figures
KUALA LUMPUR: The recent 2025 Platinum Business Awards (PBA) National Roadshow in Kuching attracted more than 150 key figures. This included local business leaders, government representatives and financial institutions. The roadshow highlighted the progress and opportunities within Sarawak's small and medium enterprises, said the SME Association of Malaysia. The roadshow was not just about promoting the awards, but also functioned as a valuable platform for strategic discussions and the exchange of insights and experiences, it added. National president Dr Chin Chee Seong said the Sarawak state government had demonstrated a firm commitment to advancing SME development, with efforts extending beyond urban centres into rural areas. He added that the approach underscores the state's solid infrastructure and supportive policies, which are creating exceptional growth prospects for SMEs, especially in sectors such as agriculture, food security, and their associated value chains. "SMEs need more than just financial support, they require technological transformation and market integration. "We aim to leverage resources from our nationwide branches to foster cross-sector collaboration among members, shifting from traditional businesses to new areas such as digitalisation, agri-tech and renewable energy," Chin added. Advisor to the Sarawak Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment, Datuk Seri Mohd Naroden Majais said the Platinum Business Awards remain a key platform for acknowledging the exceptional accomplishments of small and medium-sized enterprises. "This year's evaluation criteria place greater emphasis on corporate culture and sustainability, underscoring that true success goes beyond profit. "It comes from how a business treats its people, gives back to society, and protects the environment. Despite challenges, many SMEs have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability," he added.


Borneo Post
11-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Sarawak reps gain valuable insights from SME Day 2025 participation in Kuala Lumpur
The visiting delegates gather for a group photo during the engagement session involving the SME Association of Malaysia and Matrade. KUCHING (May 11): A delegation of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Association of Sarawak took part in the SME Day 2025 in Kuala Lumpur recently, aimed at building bridges with the sector's key stakeholders across the country. They visited to Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan (SJPP) as part of the three-day programme, gaining valuable insights into government-backed financing schemes designed to empower SMEs. Moreover, the delegates also connected with fellow entrepreneurs and leaders at a networking dinner hosted by SME Malaysia, which brought together representatives from multiple state branches. The gathering provided a meaningful platform for collaboration, idea-sharing and future partnership opportunities. The delegation also had a productive session at the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) Office, where they were briefed on the various export assistance packages and support programmes available for Malaysian SMEs, aiming to grow globally. The highlight of the programme was the grand launch of the Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2025, one of the most prestigious honours in the SME landscape. Organised by SME Malaysia, the PBA meant to celebrate outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship, innovation and sustainable business practices. This year's launch showcased new award categories, reflecting the evolving priorities of the business community including digital transformation and environmental, social and governance (ESG) excellence. 'The ceremony served as a call to action for Sarawak SMEs to rise to the challenge and gain national recognition for their impact and success. That evening, members attended the 'Trailblazer Night', an exclusive event honouring SME pioneers, who have demonstrated vision and resilience in driving their businesses forward. 'The inspiring stories shared further motivated participants to pursue bold and transformative journeys. 'On the final day, the delegation visited TikTok Malaysia where they were briefed of the platform's tools and marketing solutions tailored to help SMEs build strong digital brands, reach wider audiences, and tap into new markets through short-form video content and e-commerce features,' said the association in a statement today. business networking Small and Medium Enterprises Association