IT WAS a proud moment for 108 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as they were recognised for their outstanding achievements and contributions in their respective fields at the SME Association Platinum Business Awards 2017.

Held for the 16th year, the award ceremony at Sunway Pyramid Convention Centre, Selangor, gathered more than 1,500 guests from the business sector, government agencies, major chambers of commerce, trade associations and foreign embassies for the auspicious event.

Platinum Business Awards 2017 organising chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ricky Yaw expressed his gratitude for the support received from SMEs, the Malaysian business community and event sponsors.

“This year, we received the highest number of nominations and winners.

“We wish all the winners a bright future ahead and may they continue to inspire others,” Yaw said.

Entertainment for the evening included a solo violin performance.

Themed “Sustainability through Technology and Innovation”, the event highlighted the need for SMEs to adopt technology and continue to innovate moving forward.

“Micro businesses and SMEs make up 98.5% of all business enterprises in Malaysia.

"At present, a majority operating on traditional business models are reliant on foreign labour coupled with low levels of automation and IT.

"However, to survive in this digital world, it is vital that SMEs align themselves with digital transformation and boost productivity levels through technological and innovative manufacturing methodologies,” SME Association of Malaysia national president Datuk Michael Kang Hua Keong advised.

He also shared about the association’s building fundraising campaign which was launched in July to house SME Malaysia’s headquarters.

The office will come equipped with a training and resource centre, export information centre and a big data repository on all things SME.

Among the awards given out were the Outstanding Achievers Award presented to The KK Group and the Asean Enterprise Award to Myanmar companies Nibban Electric & Electronics and Ngwe Zabal Hlaing Co. Ltd.

Meanwhile, Brickfields Asia College Sdn Bhd, Q-Dees Worldwide Edusystems (M) Sdn Bhd and Red ONE Network Sdn Bhd collectively secured the SME Best Overall Award.

Established in 1995, SME Association of Malaysia aims to provide support, services and solutions to SMEs in Malaysia and promote their best interests.