PETALING JAYA: Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) has announced the SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SME SRF), a RM5bil financing facility to assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including microenterprises, affected by the ongoing West Asia conflict.
In a statement, the central bank acknowledged that SMEs in certain segments may be experiencing operational disruptions, cash-flow challenges, and difficulties in meeting short-term financial obligations.
“As announced by the prime minister at the roundtable discussion with CEOs of financial institutions on April 21, 2026, the SME SRF will provide timely working capital support to help viable businesses sustain operations and navigate this period of uncertainty.
“Eligible SMEs may obtain financing of up to RM750,000 for a tenure of up to five years, at a maximum financing rate of 3.75% per annum (inclusive of guarantee fee),” the central bank said.
BNM said the financing will be supported by guarantees of up to 80% from Credit Guarantee Corp Malaysia or Syarikat Jaminan Pembiayaan Perniagaan, particularly for SMEs without sufficient collateral.
Applications for the SME SRF will be open from May 15, 2026 until Dec 31, 2026, or until full utilisation.
“SMEs may apply directly through participating financial institutions, including commercial banks, Islamic banks and development financial institutions regulated by BNM.
“In the current environment, BNM strongly encourages businesses that anticipate or are already experiencing financial difficulties to engage early with their financial institutions.”
The central bank said proactive action enables banks to work with borrowers to identify suitable solutions, including repayment flexibility, restructuring of financing facilities, or other tailored support measures to help businesses remain viable.
“Financial institutions stand ready to assist and are committed to working constructively with affected SMEs during this period.”
BNM said SMEs may also seek financial advisory services, financial education support, and holistic debt repayment assistance from Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit through programmes such as the Debt Management Programme for individuals and sole proprietors, and the Small Debt Resolution Scheme for SMEs.
For clarification or assistance, SMEs may contact their financial institutions directly or reach out to BNM via bnm.gov.my/LINK.
