‘RM50 million special fund will empower Indian women entrepreneurs’
The RM50 million special fund allocated specifically for Indian entrepreneurs and women through the Prosperity Empowerment and A New Normal for Indian Women (PENN) programme is a significant initiative that can empower and ensure a more secure future for Indian women in the country.
Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) women’s wing chairman Hemala Sivam said the announcement recognises the struggle of Indian women entrepreneurs in Malaysia.
“The MAICCI women’s wing would like to express gratitude to the government, especially to Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Ramanan Ramakrishnan, for spearheading a meaningful initiative through the solid cooperation, sup- port and commitment from Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM).
“Many women need support, cooperation, guidance and funding to advance their businesses.
“Many of them also want their businesses to be further empowered to a better level or to progress further.
“This RM50 million fund can elevate the future of PENN women Indian entrepreneurs in the country,” she said in a statement.
On Saturday, Ramanan announced that AIM had allocated a special fund of RM50 million to empower Indian women entrepreneurs through the PENN programme.
He said the allocation, which utilises AIM’s internal funds, would benefit over 7,100 new Indian entrepreneurs and increase the number of beneficiaries of the AIM Ikhtiar Loan Scheme to 10,200 individuals, including 3,100 existing entrepreneurs.
He said the AIM initiative was in line with efforts to realise the desire and hope of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to ensure that no citizens are left behind in nation-building efforts.
Hemala added that MAICCI was ready to assist the ministry and AIM in ensuring the success of the PENN programme nationwide through strategic cooperation, especially through awareness campaigns.
“The involvement, participation and increased presence of Indian women entrepreneurs will enhance this programme.
“I am confident that more women entrepreneurs can be nurtured through this programme, which will have a significant impact on the country’s economic development.”