Penang: The economic empowerment of Indian entrepreneurs remains an ongoing commitment of the federal government, with RM300 million allocated for this year as of February, said Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Datuk Seri R. Ramanan. He stated that the amount comprised RM100 million for the Malaysian Indian Transformation Unit (MITRA), RM100 million for the Indian Community Entrepreneur Development Scheme (SPUMI) under TEKUN Nasional, and RM100 million for the Bank Rakyat Indian Entrepreneur Financing-i (BRIEF-i).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, in just two months, RM300 million has been channelled, and the government is developing several new initiatives to further improve the socio-economic status of the Indian community. Ramanan has discussed with several agencies under the ministry to support this purpose. The statement was issued following the Vanakam MADANI engagement session with Penang’s Indian entrepreneurial community, organised by TEKUN Nasional.

Ramanan highlighted that this initiative reflects the concern and determination of the MADANI Government under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in strengthening the economy of entrepreneurs, who have significantly contributed to the country’s development. He encouraged participants attending the SPUMI and SPUMI Goes Big briefing session to seize the opportunity to strengthen their businesses and urged them to spread this information to fellow entrepreneurs to maximize the benefits of this opportunity.

He further emphasized the ministry’s focus on economic empowerment initiatives, particularly for the Indian community, as economic strength is crucial for securing their future and direction in the country.