JOHOR has disbursed RM658.97mil across 33 state agencies to support nearly 30,000 local entrepreneurs, drawing from a total allocation exceeding RM1bil as of Sept 30.
State youth, sports, entrepreneur development and cooperatives committee chairman Mohd Hairi Mad Shah said the allocations benefitted 29,730 business owners through 173 distinct initiatives and programmes.
“The figures reflect the coordinated efforts of agencies under Johor Entrepreneur Development Council (MPUNJ) to guarantee that entrepreneurs across the state benefit from government assistance,” he said when contacted by StarMetro.
“This synergy has translated into tangible gains for our local business community.”
Mohd Hairi noted that these efforts align with the aspirations of Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi to ensure comprehensive support for all business owners statewide.
The Larkin assemblyman added that the latest figures reflect Johor’s strong economic performance, with the state recording the country’s highest enterprise formation rate of 9.5% and a leading gross domestic product (GDP) growth rate of 8% in 2025.
Highlighting MPUNJ’s role, Mohd Hairi emphasised that the council provided structured oversight rather than just serving as a discussion platform.
“It is the state’s highest-level coordinating body for entrepreneurship development,” he said.
“Its primary function is to prevent overlapping aid across different agencies, streamline resource delivery and ensure funds reach targeted groups.”
He said such coordination was vital to maximise the impact of government funding.
“The RM1.06bil allocation recorded as of Sept 30 covers initiatives coordinated by Johor Entrepreneur Corporation (PUJB) through MPUNJ, involving 33 partner agencies.
“The RM658.97mil spent reflects actual project expenditure to date,” he elaborated.
Mohd Hairi said regular council meetings allowed for opportunities to monitor implementation and foster cross-agency collaboration.
“The state’s entrepreneurship agenda requires a fresh approach to meet evolving business needs and maintain relevant support mechanisms,” he said, adding that continued inter-agency cooperation remains essential.
