KUALA LUMPUR: The Women’s wing of the Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) has called for targeted initiatives to empower Indian women entrepreneurs in the upcoming Budget 2025.
Its head, S. Hemala, also urged the government to introduce green financing to support sustainable and environment-friendly projects by Indian women entrepreneurs.
“We need support to integrate eco-friendly practices into businesses. Green financing could be a key enabler,” she told Bernama, sharing her wishlist for Budget 2025, which will be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Oct 18.
Hemala explained that green financing enables businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable supply chains or waste management systems.
She also suggested subsidies for trade fairs and mentorship on exporting, saying initiatives like these could help Indian women entrepreneurs break new ground.
Hemala emphasised the need for digital skills training to help businesses adapt to the online marketplace.
“Programmes focused on e-commerce, digital marketing and setting up online platforms would be a huge help,” she said.
Hemala also called for the setting up of dedicated incubation centres for women entrepreneurs.
“Having access to mentors and networking opportunities would be a game-changer,” she said, highlighting how such centres could provide a launchpad for sustainable business growth.
In KOTA KINABALU, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew said the ministry hopes that the budget will provide incentives to boost community-based tourism.
She said this would benefit local communities and enhance the state’s appeal to both domestic and international visitors.
“While we continue to attract foreign tourists, it is equally important to promote local tourism, particularly among the people of Sabah who may not be fully aware of the unique destinations within the state,” she said.
Liew said the budget also needs to encourage Malaysians to explore their own country, stressing that Sabah offers a wealth of natural beauty and cultural experiences that should be enjoyed by locals, as well as foreign visitors.
