Kuala lumpur: Bank Negara Malaysia's (BNM) RM5 billion SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SME SRF) is now open for applications by micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) until December 31, 2026. Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Steven Sim announced that eligible MSMEs can apply for financing up to RM750,000 with a maximum interest or profit rate of 3.7 percent per annum. This initiative aims to support MSMEs in navigating the current economic uncertainties.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the facility will be distributed through 18 participating financial institutions, including Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia Berhad (Bank Rakyat) and SME Bank under the ministry (KUSKOP). Minister Sim emphasized the importance of expediting the application, approval, and disbursement processes by adopting faster, more flexible, and MSME-friendly procedures. This approach is intended to ensure that financial assistance reaches affected businesses promptly.

Sim also encouraged financial institutions to continue their role as strategic partners to MSMEs by implementing inclusive and practical assessment methods for financing applications. The introduction of this RM5 billion fund from BNM, along with an additional RM5 billion guarantee from the Credit Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Berhad (SJPP), has raised the total allocation and funding for the MSME sector this year to RM60 billion, a significant increase from the RM50 billion announced under Budget 2026.