PUTRAJAYA – Informal and petty traders are urged to register their businesses with the relevant authorities in order to receive aid from the Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Ministry and its agencies, said Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar.
There are almost two million unregistered small-time traders nationwide, the minister said in a statement today.
“Because of their unregistered status, the ministry is unable to channel any aid to them.
“We are concerned about their situation and want to help them. However, they need to register their businesses, so that whatever aid we want to provide can be given through the proper channels.”
Meanwhile, 28 residents and 55 non-governmental organisations in Lundu, Sarawak, have received aid amounting to RM187,200 under the state government’s Minor Rural Project grant, which is specifically for education and medical emergency support.
Wan Junaidi advised entrepreneurs to prepare for the shift online, so as to ensure their continued survival in the Covid-19 era.
“Like it or not, digitalisation is the new norm. As a result of the pandemic, many have chosen to buy goods online.
“Those who refuse to adapt to new trends and methods might face difficulty maintaining their businesses.
“For those who have successfully migrated to operating online, I am confident they are now reaping the benefits.”
Studies have shown that some traders enjoy an up to 500% increase in sales after adopting an online business model, he added. – Bernama, December 12, 2020