Kuala lumpur: Banking institutions must shoulder their responsibility as strategic partners to sustain the domestic economy, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized that while the country's economic fundamentals remain resilient, the government will not tolerate delays in addressing the challenges faced by critical sectors, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which are the pillars of the nation's economy.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, announced a RM5 billion special facility to be disbursed through the banking sector to support affected MSMEs. This initiative complements the existing RM5 billion guarantee under Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Bhd (SJPP) previously announced, bringing the total financial support for MSMEs to RM10 billion.

Anwar stressed the importance of expanding access to these facilities in a fair and comprehensive manner, particularly for new MSMEs in genuine need. He urged banks to adopt a broader perspective and act as strategic partners in sustaining the domestic economy. The MADANI government, he asserted, will continue to act with discipline and clear priorities to safeguard local businesses, protect jobs, and ensure economic stability and resilience.

Today, Anwar engaged with chief executive officers of banking institutions to coordinate more decisive and structured actions to assist MSMEs currently facing significant pressures due to the global energy crisis and the ongoing West Asia conflict, which continue to disrupt the global supply chain.