Digitalisation grant for SMEs tied up in red tape

I AM writing to express my deep frustration as a small and medium enterprise owner regarding the Malaysian government’s grant aimed at digitalising MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises). While the initiative, with its billions of ringgit budget in 2024 and 2025, is commendable and much needed, the execution has been nothing short of a nightmare.

The process is mired in red tape, making it incredibly difficult for businesses like mine to access the funds. Bank Simpa-nan Nasional (BSN), the organisation through which the money is channelled, seems to lack clarity and direction. Every interaction with the bank staff feels like a runaround, with no clear answers or guidance on how to proceed.