Ready, set, go: Students of Cohort 2 celebrating their achievement with Zamree (second row, fifth from left) and Hussein (on Zamree’s left).
CREDIT Guarantee Corporation Malaysia Bhd (CGC), in collaboration with PINTAR Foundation and with the support of the Education Ministry, saw 20 students graduate from the CGC100 Fast Track Cohort Two.
The CGC100 Youth Entrepreneurship Programme targets aspiring entrepreneurs aged 18 to 23 from B40 and M40 communities, equipping them with skills, mindset and adaptability to launch and sustain viable ventures.
The event, held at INCEIF University in Kuala Lumpur, was attended by CGC chairman Datuk Mohammed Hussein, president and chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Zamree Mohd Ishak and representatives from PINTAR Foundation, the Education Ministry and INCEIF University.
“The future of Malaysia’s business landscape will be shaped by these young entrepreneurs.
“CGC100 is about igniting a mindset where problems are seen as opportunities to innovate, create and contribute to a resilient and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“CGC is committed to nurturing their talent and providing a launchpad for the next generation of business leaders,” said Hussein.
According to Zamree, the programme, which began in 2022, has grown into a platform that delivers a measurable impact.
“CGC100 is not just a training programme, it is a platform for growth, a bridge to opportunity and a living example of what is possible when we invest in potential.”
Zamree also called on stakeholders in the micro, small and medium enterprise (MSME) ecosystem to collaborate with CGC in expanding its impact.
Participants were selected based on potential, commitment and readiness to build viable businesses, with CGC and PINTAR Foundation collaborating closely to ensure the curriculum remains relevant and practical.
Fast Track Cohort Two, held from May to December 2024, saw 20 graduates from across Malaysia, many of whom transitioned from informal ventures to formal, revenue-generating businesses.
“This journey gave me the confidence and structure I needed to turn my passion into something real,” said Villjohne Necent, a 23-year-old creative arts entrepreneur from Melaka.
“I’m now working on opening a creative cafe that merges art and sports, something I never thought was possible,” he added.
From Sabah, Carmelina Taunek, 21, said CGC100 helped to improve her marketing, streamline operations and grow her hydroponic business.
“It’s changed how we run things, and it’s been a turning point for our family,” added Taunek.
Meanwhile, Ali Iskandar Padzil, a 23-year-old food entrepreneur from Penang, said the guidance received helped refine products, manage costs and position his brand for growth.
“The exposure to new business perspectives and practical advice from mentors has been invaluable in shaping the future of my food business.”
Kong Huey Shen, 23, a graphics design student from Kajang, said the programme has managed to broaden her perspective.
“I learned a lot about entrepreneurship, especially how to grow a business and especially about ESG.
“Hopefully, one day, I can be a business owner,” she said.
As for 22-year-old Muhammad Alif Haqiemi Jamil, the programme has helped him, particularly in the areas of human resource management and finances.
“Through this programme, I now have the knowledge to run my own motorcycle outlet, and I can strive towards being a business owner,” said Alif, a motorcycle mechanic from Johor.
Since the launch of CGC100, the programme has helped produce 70 graduates across three cohorts, including the 12-month Comprehensive Track.
This has helped to create 61 new jobs.
Furthermore, participants have entered 20 industries, with many transitioning to formal businesses.
According to a CGC statement, 80% of participants have registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia, 71% of financing applicants managed to secure the full amount requested, 64% now earn over RM10,000 per month, and 96% reported improved business performance.
Feedback showed 90% of participants were delighted, while 85% said the programme met or exceeded expectations and 80% applied new knowledge directly to their businesses.
Following the graduation ceremony, CGC also launched the Fast Track Cohort Three programme, which will run from August 2025 to February 2026.
Fast Track Cohort Three involves 30 participants who will embark on a six-month curriculum that covers business fundamentals, environmental, social, and governance (ESG), branding, the digital economy, financial literacy and pitching.
CGC now looks to expand its national reach, increase social impact and strengthen public-private collaboration before calling on other financial institutions and ecosystem partners to adopt similar models and co-invest in nurturing Malaysia’s next generation of entrepreneurs.
