The Malaysian government is pouring RM813.4 million into Sabah’s entrepreneurs, marking a significant jump from RM700.93 million in 2023—and it’s not stopping there.

Entrepreneur and Cooperative Development Minister Datuk Seri Ewon Benedick says the surge in funding underscores KUSKOP’s commitment to making things happen for local businesses.

“KUSKOP is committed to facilitating—not frustrating—entrepreneurs by providing financing and development support across Sabah,” Benedick said Monday at the Sabah Media Appreciation Night 2025.

Funding for Sabah’s business landscape has climbed by RM112.5 million year-on-year, and key programs are seeing a massive boost.

The Tamu Desa Premises Development Program got RM10.28 million to build 54 rural market sites. BEEP PLUS, aimed at Bumiputera SMEs, funneled RM8.39 million into 113 companies. 

Meanwhile, 893 traders walked away with RM3.56 million from the Tamu Entrepreneur Financing Scheme (SPUT).

The government also dropped RM20.95 million into Penampang’s business sector and RM16.58 million into Kadamaian, pushing even more cash into Sabah’s economic ecosystem.

INSKEN ran 41 training programs in 2024, prepping 1,585 entrepreneurs with the skills to scale their businesses.

Benedick insists KUSKOP is only getting started, with bigger moves planned for 2025. 

The ministry is expanding its presence in Sabah, rolling out a PMKS hub under SME Corp and tightening coordination with state agencies to streamline operations.

“We must facilitate, not frustrate. It is our responsibility to ensure that in addition to adhering to existing laws and procedures, we also apply common sense in helping entrepreneurs grow,” Benedick said.

With financing nearing the RM900 million mark, KUSKOP is making it clear—Sabah’s entrepreneurs are a top priority. – February 11, 2025.