Kota Kinabalu: All agencies and subsidiaries under the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development (KKDW) are required to make a profit as a catalyst for change, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Minister of Rural and Regional Development stated that each agency and subsidiary involved is targeted to make a profit within a year, while subsidiaries that do not generate profits may face management buyout or closure.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid emphasized a hands-on approach, saying, “We must do something extraordinary under ordinary circumstances. I do not just issue orders but I am hands-on, go down and give some guidance for them.” He stressed the importance of achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) and further improvement if targets are met. This was conveyed to reporters after officiating the Sabah Women’s Empowerment Programme at the Sabah International Convention Centre.
The event, organized by Mara, was attended by over 1,000 women entrepreneurs from throughout the state, featuring activities such as business matching sessions and direct guidance with related agencies. Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang, Mara chairman, Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, and Sabah Community Development Department chairman, Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin were also in attendance.
Ahmad Zahid explained that KKDW conducts retreats involving top management and senior officials every two years to introduce transformative ideas for enhancing service delivery systems. These retreats aim to strengthen engagement among ministry officials and support innovative ideas. Ahmad Zahid noted that such practices could help other ministries in meeting public needs and addressing dissatisfaction through actionable programmes.
He further commented on the empowerment programme, highlighting its role in bolstering the potential and talent of women in entrepreneurship. The initiative reflects continued support for the capacity development and competitiveness of women entrepreneurs in Sabah. Ahmad Zahid expressed hope that MARA will continue to be instrumental in fostering competent and resilient women entrepreneurs.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering women through a comprehensive approach, providing access to financing, intensive guidance, and sustainable market support. The programme aligns with MARA’s capacity development agenda for women entrepreneurs across 60 parliamentary areas.