Kuala Lumpur:Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) is set to provide an additional RM5 billion in financial assistance to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) affected by the conflict in West Asia, supplementing an already allocated RM5 billion. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced this initiative during the tabling of Budget 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who also serves as Finance Minister, revealed that banking institutions are offering basic credit cards with interest rates capped at 14% per annum. He expressed gratitude towards Alliance Bank, Maybank, and CIMB for providing this facility.

The Bank Pembangunan Malaysia group has earmarked RM7 billion for investment in seven strategic sectors, aiming to bolster growth in high-impact industries and key sectors essential for national development. These sectors include renewable energy, logistics, aerospace, and semiconductors.

Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan Bhd (SJPP) and Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC) are set to offer financing guarantees of up to RM32 billion next year. SJPP's coverage will extend to mid-sized companies across all sectors, with the guarantee limit increasing to RM50 million. Additionally, RM1 billion in SJPP guarantees will be reserved to aid local companies' expansion through mergers and acquisitions.