PUNB aims to disburse RM200 mln loans to 500 entrepreneurs in 2018

KUALA LUMPUR: Perbadanan Usahawan Nasional Bhd (PUNB) expects to disburse RM200 million in loans to 500 entrepreneurs under its seven financing schemes next year, focusing mainly in the halal and digital economy sectors.

Chairman Tan Sri Mohd Ali Rustam said from Jan 1, 2017 to Nov 30, 2017, PUNB had approved financing totalling RM177 million to 459 companies, involving 631 entrepreneurs.

He said out of the total loans approved during the period, the Prosper Runcit (Retail) scheme recorded the highest demand with 317 entrepreneurs receiving a total financing of RM75.6 million, followed by Prosper Teras (Core) scheme with 145 entrepreneurs and loans of RM32.3 million.

Mohd Ali told reporters this after PUNB’s briefing session on business financing for the arts community yesterday.

“Besides the two schemes offered, we also provide various Prosper schemes, namely the SME scheme, Prosper Pemborong (Wholesale), Prosper Usahawan Muda (Young Entrepreneurs) and Food Truck scheme,” he added.

Earlier, in his speech, Mohd Ali said the briefing session, held for the first time, was the result of a cooperation between PUNB and the Music Industry Association of Malaysia to assist arts activists to venture into business or expand their existing business.

“Entrepreneurial activities are able to generate side income as well as serve as an alternative for the arts community in the prevailing economic condition.” — Bernama