The PUMM committees with the VIPs.
Group’s newly installed leadership continues role of helping businesses thrive, awarding excellence
A TOTAL of 36 outstanding companies received the Malaysia Role Model Enterprise Award (MRMEA) for their excellence this year.
Four were named Iconic Malaysia Role Model Enterprise, 10 were recognised as Star Malaysia Role Model Enterprise and 17 as Malaysia Role Model Enterprise.
Five others received the Special Category Borneo Role Model Enterprise awards.
The awards presentation was hosted by Malaysia Entrepreneurs Development Association (PUMM) at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC) in Kota Kinabalu, together with the installation ceremony for PUMM central and state liaison committees for 2024-2026 term.
According to PUMM, the awards ceremony was a significant event that celebrated entrepreneurial excellence and PUMM’s dedication to fostering a thriving business environment across Malaysia.
For the occasion, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor conveyed his strong support for PUMM and the development of entrepreneurship in the state.
“Our state is full of potential, and we are eager to collaborate with like-minded organisations such as PUMM to further develop a vibrant, sustainable and inclusive economy.
“As we look to the future, I am confident that your association will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping Malaysia’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“Challenges of the 21st century, from technological advancements to global competition, present both opportunities and obstacles.
“However, with the leadership of PUMM and entrepreneurial spirit of its members, I have no doubt that we will rise to these challenges and seize the opportunities before us,” he said in his speech read out by Sabah Industrial and Entrepreneurship Development Minister Datuk Phoong Jin Zhe.
Event organising chairman and PUMM state chairman Patrick Chiam commended this year’s award recipients, acknowledging their dedication and resilience in navigating an evolving business landscape.
“Persistence is what sets successful entrepreneurs apart. Today, we celebrate 36 outstanding winners,” he said.
The combined installation ceremony was held outside of Kuala Lumpur for the first time, which PUMM said underscored the organisation’s commitment to connecting its members across Sabah, Sarawak and peninsular Malaysia.
It further stated that the event marked a pivotal chapter for PUMM as it embarked on a new term dedicated to strengthening Malaysia’s entrepreneurial landscape, fostering resilience and promoting sustainable business practices nationwide.
Leading the installation ceremony was 2024-2026 national president Datuk Dr Teh Tai Yong, who said, “Over the past 31 years, PUMM has evolved into an exceptional platform serving over 3,000 entrepreneurs across industries and regions.
“Our mission is clear: to be the voice of SMEs, especially for young and dynamic entrepreneurs.
“We aim to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem that thrives on networking, collaboration and sustainable growth.”
Teh expressed his appreciation to the government for its support, highlighting the importance of collaboration between business associations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and relevant government bodies.
“When the government works closely with businesses, the benefits trickle down to the rakyat.
“Successful businesses create more job opportunities, and sustainable jobs are the foundation of long-term prosperity.
“I propose regular dialogues between PUMM, NGOs and relevant ministries to ensure that the voices of SMEs are heard and their concerns are addressed.”
Teh also emphasised PUMM’s commitment to environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards, asserting that the future of business and long-term prosperity demanded sustainability as well as digital transformation, continuous innovation and a forward-looking approach.
Guest-of-honour Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin was represented by Sabah State Assembly Deputy Speaker Datuk Al Hambra Tun Juhar at the award and installation gala dinner.
Among other notable guests were Sabah Finance Assistant Minister Datuk Tan Lee Fatt and Datuk Dr Roland Chia who is political secretary to Hajiji.
