BANK Simpanan Nasional (BSN) has launched the Micro MADANI Carnival at Pasar Payang as part of a nationwide initiative to empower micro-entrepreneurs, boost local economies, and promote inclusive financial growth across communities.
BSN chief executive Jay Khairil said the carnival is an extension of the bank’s long-term strategy to support Malaysia’s microeconomic development, underscoring its pivotal role in grassroots business empowerment.
“To date, BSN has disbursed over RM5 billion in micro-financing to nearly 170,000 micro-entrepreneurs nationwide. This is clear evidence that we not only support business growth but also build community resilience,” he said during the launch event.
The initiative was officiated by Kuala Terengganu mayor Datuk Jusman Ibrahim, signifying strong support from local authorities for the development of community-based entrepreneurship.
Jay noted that the carnival acts as a one-stop platform for micro-entrepreneurs to engage with government agencies, financial institutions, and industry partners, facilitating knowledge exchange, networking, and showcasing of local products and services.
Several financial support services were introduced during the event, including financial counselling, financing restructuring, and access to BSN’s Micro MADANI Scheme.
“Among the key initiatives announced during the carnival is BSN Micro Community, a comprehensive ecosystem covering financing, capacity building, marketing, and digitalisation,” he said.
He added that the programme had already demonstrated significant outcomes: over 4,000 micro-entrepreneurs upgraded to SME status, more than 14,800 jobs created, upwards of 13,000 businesses reporting sales growth, and the acquisition or improvement of 1,400 business assets.
The carnival also showcased business matching programmes through strategic collaborations such as the Modern Trade Ready Programme with AEON Malaysia and digital commerce opportunities via TikTok Shop.
A memorandum of understanding was exchanged between BSN and several strategic partners, including the Terengganu Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council, TikTok Shop Malaysia, SME Bank, and the Credit Counselling and Management Agency (AKPK), with the support of the Malaysian Prison Department.
“This collaboration aims to strengthen the micro-entrepreneurship ecosystem, expand outreach to affected groups, and support Islamic social finance agendas such as the iTEKAD Programme,” said Jay.
As part of its commitment to social impact, BSN also announced its involvement in the Tenunan Songket Community Centre initiative at the Terengganu State Prison, in partnership with AKPK. The initiative, under the iTEKAD BSN MulaNiaga programme, is designed to help individuals in rehabilitation build viable skills through songket weaving.
“This 18-month programme targets 20 participants with support including raw materials, equipment, entrepreneurship training, financial literacy, and a RM10,000 starting grant per person,” he said.
Jay concluded by reaffirming BSN’s mission to foster inclusive development: “BSN is proud to be part of this initiative that opens opportunities for individuals in the rehabilitation phase. Our goal is to ensure no Malaysian is left behind.” - June 16, 2025
