PETALING JAYA: The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) will leverage on the allocation under Budget 2026, to propel Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises’ (MSMEs) entry into the international market, says its chairman Datuk Seri Reezal Merican Naina Merican.
“With the announcement of Budget 2026, I am confident that we have the commitment and capability to further elevate the country’s trade position from time to time, thus ensuring economic prosperity for future generations,” Reezal said in a statement on Monday (Oct 13).
He said that Matrade will work closely with the Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) and related agencies to ensure that Budget 2026 translates into sustainable and high-quality export outcomes for the prosperity of Malaysia Madani’s economy.
He said the strategic allocations will boost the country’s exports.
These include the RM60mil allocated under the Market Development Grant to assist MSMEs with exporting to existing and new markets; a soft loan facility of RM500mil under Exim Bank to assist companies affected by tariff tensions and to support export expansion activities; SME financing of up to RM100mil and increased government guarantee (SJPP) of up to RM2bil for halal industry empowerment.
Additionally, RM200mil will be allocated through SME Bank for bumiputra SMEs to penetrate the export markets.
Reezal Merican said the funds will enable MSMEs to rise and move faster.
“We must be bold. These funds act as a catalyst for Malaysian companies to ‘step out’ and dominate high-potential markets. This is not only to strengthen existing positions but to build a globally trusted Malaysian Brand, through high-quality products and services recognised worldwide,” he said.
Matrade, he said, will continue to focus on emerging markets that offer high growth potential, including Latin America, Central Asia, and South Asia.
Calling this a timely strategy, he said Malaysian exports have recorded encouraging growth in the Latin American (26.3%), Central Asian (22.3%) and African (4.7%) markets.
“This is our joint hard work. Although Malaysia stands firmly at 25th as the world’s largest exporter, according to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) report, we will not stop here,” he said.
“Matrade will continue to be the connector between MSMEs and global trade and make the phrase ‘Made by Malaysia’ synonymous with quality, reliability, and trust. Our mission remains firm: to promote Malaysian exports that enable local companies to be at the forefront of the global market,” he added while expressing appreciation for Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for the allocation.
“It proves that international trade remains a core and primary driver of inclusive economic growth for the people,” he said.
He also extended his gratitude to Miti Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz for his tireless efforts in promoting Malaysian products and services as well as streamlining trade policies and initiatives to ensure the export ecosystem remains competitive.
