The Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) has welcomed the introduction of the Deepavali BERKAT Scheme, which offers financing of up to RM30,000 to entrepreneurs from the Indian community.
Introduced by the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), the initiative is aimed at helping businesses prepare for the Deepavali season. The additional financing can be used to increase stock, prepare for operational needs and manage higher customer demand during the festive period.
MAICCI President Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan described the initiative as a meaningful step towards supporting the economic growth of the Indian community, particularly small and micro entrepreneurs who may need additional capital during one of the busiest period of the year.
Helping Small Businesses Prepare for Deepavali
According to Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan, access to additional capital ahead of Deepavali can make a major difference for smaller traders.
“MAICCI greatly appreciates the introduction of BERKAT Deepavali because this initiative addresses the real needs of entrepreneurs at the grassroots level,” he said.
He explained that the support goes beyond financing, as stronger businesses can also benefit that families, employees and communities that depend on them.
With Deepavali creating more businesses opportunities across different sectors, MAICCI believes having access to suitable financing will allow entrepreneurs to prepare earlier and make better use of the festive season.
MAICCI Thanks YB Steven Sim and KUSKOP
Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan also expressed his appreciation of Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives YB Steven Sim Chee Keong for introducing the special Deepavali financing opportunity for Indian entrepreneurs through KUSKOP.
According to MAICCI, this is the first time such a special Deepavali financing opportunity has been introduced for entrepreneurs from the Indian community through the ministry.
The organization said the initiatives is particularly meaningful for small traders who are working for sustain and grow their businesses.
Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan also thanked Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, highlighting the MADANI Government’s effort to expand economic opportunities for the Indian community through ministries including KUSKOP.
He added that when small businesses are given opportunities to grow, the benefits can go further by supporting families, creating jobs and contributing to local economic activity.
Clear Information Needed for Eligible Entrepreneurs
While welcoming the scheme, MAICCI stressed that information about the financing must be shared clearly so eligible entrepreneurs do not miss out simply because they are unaware of the opportunity.
Dato’ Seri N. Gobalakrishnan encouraged Indian entrepreneurs who qualify for the scheme to obtain information through official channels, understand the application requirements and use the financing carefully to strengthen their businesses.
MAICCI will work with KUSKOP and implementing agency TEKUN Nasional to spread information about the scheme and help entrepreneurs better understand the application process and requirements.
Through its network of state chambers and trade organizations, MAICCI also plans to act as a link between KUSKOP and the Indian business community, helping more eligible entrepreneurs learn about and benefit from the Deepavali BERKAT Scheme.
