PUTRAJAYA, MALAYSIA December 20, 2025 – In a move to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Malaysia, Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Steven Sim Chee Keong has urged for clearer and streamlined government processes following recent clarifications on Christmas-themed decorations in food outlets and hotels.
The statement comes in response to guidance from Religious Affairs Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan, who confirmed that such decorations do not breach the halal certification standards set by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). Sim emphasized that this clarification must be respected and adopted as a unified guideline to ensure consistent enforcement and avoid public confusion.
“Now is the time to ensure Malaysian businesses can continue to thrive regardless of race, religion, state, or region,” Sim stated in the media release. He highlighted the food and hotel sectors, which involve numerous Malaysian SMEs (known locally as PMKS), as key areas that stand to benefit from reduced bureaucratic hurdles.
Sim pointed out that varying interpretations of regulations have created unnecessary challenges for operators. To address this, he advocated for simplifying and aligning procedures at all government levels, allowing traders to function with transparency and efficiency.
This initiative aligns with the ABCD Strategy rolled out by the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (KUSKOP), which focuses on:
– Productivity Shift : Boosting efficiency in operations.
– Simplified Bureaucracy : Reducing red tape for smoother business processes.
– Access to Capital : Improving funding opportunities for entrepreneurs.
– Market Access Capability : Enhancing ways for businesses to reach broader markets.
The minister’s call underscores ongoing efforts to foster an inclusive business environment in Malaysia, particularly as the nation approaches the festive season. Industry stakeholders have welcomed the statement, noting it could help prevent disruptions in hospitality services during peak periods.
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