The Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs Alliance of Malaysia (Ikhlas) has trained 350 micro entrepreneurs throughout Sarawak to become successful entrepreneurs through the 1Keluarga 1Usahawan programme. — Reuters picSIBU, April 23 — The Small and Medium Scale Entrepreneurs Alliance of Malaysia (Ikhlas) has trained 350 micro entrepreneurs throughout Sarawak to become successful entrepreneurs through the 1Keluarga 1Usahawan programme, said its president Mohd Ridzuan Abdullah.

He said these entrepreneurs were offered guidance through basic entrepreneurial skills and courses based on the type of business they were involved through a contribution of RM150,000.

“In two year’s time we hope offer about RM500,000 for similar assistance. The guidance is offered to assist small and medium sized entrepreneurs like those running stalls and housewives involved in business but face financial problems or faced with other difficulties,” he told reporters after visiting the Sibu Pasar Besar, here today.

Ridzuan said two weeks ago Ikhlas had conducted a study and research at several locations in Sarawak, including Kuching, Lundu, Sarikei, Simunjan and Kota Samarahan to identify programmes faced by entrepreneurs, with a view to assist them.

According to Ridzuan, among the main grouses or problems faced by small and medium scale entrepreneurs was infrastructure that has not been refurbished or upgraded and plying their business at less strategic locations.

“There are traders who refused to relocate to new locations and infrastructure provided by the government because they are comfortable with their current location,” he said.

However, contrary to problems faced by some small and medium scale entrepreneurs, the Ikhlas study showed that the business community in Kampung Bandung had received enough assistance to boost their business.

“Traders there are enjoying brisk business due to the various assistance provided by the Nangka state assemblyman Dr Annuar Rapaee,” he said. — Bernama