JOHOR BAHRU June 26, 2026 — Johor has emerged as the third-highest recipient of financing from Tabung Ekonomi Kumpulan Usaha Niaga (TEKUN) Nasional nationwide, with RM52 million channelled to 2,400 entrepreneurs in the state between 1 January and 31 May 2026.
The announcement was made by Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development, Steven Sim Chee Keong, during a friendly engagement session with approximately 400 TEKUN Johor entrepreneurs.
Of the total recipients, 64% are women entrepreneurs, highlighting the significant role played by Johor women in driving entrepreneurship and contributing to national economic growth.
Sector Breakdown
The majority of TEKUN recipients in Johor are involved in the following sectors:
- Services: 1,183 entrepreneurs
- Retail: 669 entrepreneurs
- Manufacturing: 260 entrepreneurs
- Small contractors: 234 entrepreneurs
- Agriculture and agro-based industries: 54 entrepreneurs
Steven Sim noted that most TEKUN recipients are micro and community entrepreneurs, who form the backbone of the people’s economy. This aligns with the national landscape, where nearly 80% of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Malaysia are micro enterprises.
“TEKUN financing is not just about providing business capital. It also opens doors for technology upgrades, business capability enhancement, and improved productivity among entrepreneurs,” he said.
The Minister emphasised that the Ministry of Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development (KUSKOP) provides a holistic entrepreneurship ecosystem. This includes:
- Micro financing through TEKUN Nasional and Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM)
- Growth financing via SME Corp Malaysia, SME Bank, and Bank Rakyat
- Capacity building and training through INSKEN and Institut Koperasi Malaysia (IKMa), among other agencies.
With the development of the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), ongoing infrastructure improvements, and new investments flowing into the state, Johor is strategically positioned to become a new growth hub for the country. These developments are expected to create more opportunities for local companies to scale up into larger, more productive, and competitive businesses at both national and international levels.
Steven Sim expressed appreciation to all TEKUN entrepreneurs for their dedication in growing their businesses, improving family well-being, and contributing as key drivers of the people’s and national economy.
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