Ahead of Budget 2027, Anwar invites small entrepreneurs to identify those needing support

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is allowing small entrepreneurs in every village to propose aid recipients following the government’s plan to increase the specific allocation for the group in Budget 2027. — Bernama pic

First Published: Saturday, 26 Sep 2026 9:26 AM MYT

ALOR SETAR, Sept 26 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is allowing small entrepreneurs in every village to propose aid recipients following the government’s plan to increase the specific allocation for the group in Budget 2027.

He said the suggestions were crucial to ensure the aid reaches small traders who genuinely need it and have the potential to expand their businesses.

“I want to give small traders in every village the opportunity to suggest if there are other friends who should be given a chance... because in our Budget next month, God willing, I want to increase the allocation for these entrepreneurs,” he said when officiating the Kedah Usahawan Bangkit scheme at the Federal Government Administration Complex in Anak Bukit here yesterday.

Anwar said many stalls run by small entrepreneurs also provided employment, thereby helping to generate income for the local community.

“When we give aid to these small entrepreneurs, even if it is small, they work hard and truly appreciate the assistance given,” he added.

He said the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) would determine the best method to assist needy small entrepreneurs after receiving the proposals.

About 1,500 entrepreneurs and petty traders in Kedah gathered at yesterday’s event to support the Madani Government’s efforts in strengthening the people’s economy.

Through the Usahawan Bangkit scheme, the government provides business equipment aid tailored to the entrepreneurs’ needs to increase their business capacity and productivity.

Meanwhile, Anwar said the government would continue to attract major foreign investments to boost the country’s economy, while ensuring the entry of foreign companies does not affect local enterprises, especially small entrepreneurs.

“Although I bring in foreign investments, I do not disrupt small entrepreneurs...I don’t go overseas for no reason,” he said.

He said investments by major companies, including in artificial intelligence (AI), computing and semiconductors, could stimulate the country’s economic growth and offer more job opportunities for the people.

Anwar also cited the development of medical technology in China, which is currently capable of treating the blind and restoring their sight.

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister stressed that the government was continuously working to alleviate the people’s burden, particularly regarding the rising cost of goods. — Bernama