Sabah: A total of 52 entrepreneurs in Sabah have completed the Maxis eKelas Usahawan Accelerator programme, a digital upskilling initiative aimed at helping participants expand their businesses online, achieving an average 57 per cent increase in monthly revenue.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Maxis said the three-month programme, conducted in collaboration with the Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centre (SCENIC), is part of a strategic partnership between Maxis and the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) to support the development of local entrepreneurship. By applying digital marketing skills to grow their businesses online, the group achieved an average 57 per cent increase in monthly revenue. Comprising entrepreneurs from urban and rural communities across Sabah, they represent a range of industries, including food and beverage, services, and handicrafts.
It also said that through the programme, participants leveraged artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools to create promotional materials, manage social media platforms, and develop content strategies more effectively.
According to Maxis, the programme's impact enabled participants to shift from producing content focused solely on products to creating more engaging material, including behind-the-scenes videos, customer testimonials, and educational tips. Meanwhile, Maxis chief corporate affairs officer Azizul Abdul Rahman expressed pride in supporting communities in Sabah in enhancing their digital capabilities. He noted the importance of leveraging AI to create impactful content, aligning with Maxis' belief that 'Tomorrow Begins Today'.
SCENIC chief executive officer Mohd Lan Muslim highlighted the potential of Sabah's business community when provided with strong support. He emphasized that digital adoption can drive growth, and collaboration among entrepreneurs fosters continuous learning. This effort aligns with SCENIC's commitment to strengthening Sabah's creative economy and innovation ecosystem.
Sharing her experience, programme graduate and Alternative Crafts founder Sylvia Desmond Lee described the programme's impact as extending beyond business development through its alumni network. She noted the transformation in her marketing approach and the confidence gained from the programme.
Maxis eKelas Usahawan is designed to empower Malaysian entrepreneurs, particularly those from the B40 group, with digital tools and skills to grow their businesses online. Its first cohort saw 60 entrepreneurs from the Central Region complete the programme last year, and the initiative has since expanded to support Sabah's entrepreneurs.