Kuala lumpur: UDA Holdings Berhad (UDA) has introduced three key initiatives, comprising rental discounts of up to 20 per cent, a moratorium and utility cost relief, to help traders operating in shopping complexes and commercial buildings under its ownership and management amid the global supply crisis.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim announced that the rental discounts would be implemented in a targeted manner based on two categories. A 10 per cent discount will be available for all tenants, with an additional 10 per cent targeted discount for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) under the UDA Entrepreneur Incentive programme from May to December this year.

Sim also stated that UDA is implementing a moratorium aimed at easing MSME cash flow by offering more flexible monthly rental payments. This includes allowing rental arrears of up to three months for affected tenants, based on performance assessments and operational needs.

Additionally, utility cost relief will be provided through the deferment of increases in operational service charges at complexes. UDA will absorb the additional costs, thereby indirectly reducing MSMEs' operating expenses, he added.

Sim highlighted that UDA is expected to bear costs amounting to RM12.5 million to implement these measures for traders and MSME entrepreneurs.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim directed that rental rates for business premises under all Federal government agencies, such as Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) and UDA, be reduced starting this month to help small traders lower their operating costs. Anwar stated that the move is part of the government's efforts to assist traders and hawkers affected by the ongoing global supply crisis.