Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on relevant agencies to enhance their efforts in reaching out to small and medium traders who remain unaware of the government-provided financing facilities and aid. As both the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Anwar emphasized the importance of ensuring these traders benefit from government initiatives aimed at increasing their income and expanding their businesses.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar expressed concerns that some traders are still not aware of the available facilities, urging agencies to actively engage with this group. Following a visit to the Taman Melawati Farmers' Market, Anwar highlighted the need for continuous attention to hawkers and small traders, noting that they represent a substantial segment without a strong platform to voice their concerns.

During his visit, Anwar received positive feedback from hawkers and small traders, many of whom expressed gratitude for the micro-financing facilities provided by the government. He shared that traders are appreciative of assistance, even for loans as small as RM10,000.

Anwar also mentioned that while traders generally focus on earning a living, they occasionally face challenges such as the high prices of essential goods. He suggested that agencies like the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority could play a role in offering more affordable supplies.

The Prime Minister noted that despite the challenges, the feedback on loan accessibility and affordability has been encouraging. The MADANI Government had previously announced over RM5 billion in micro-financing facilities for 2026, aiming to benefit more than 400,000 micro-entrepreneurs through loans up to RM100,000 and financing rates as low as four per cent per annum.