The SME Association of Malaysia (SME Malaysia) celebrated a major milestone with its 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner and the official launch of the Platinum Business Awards (PBA) 2026, bringing together entrepreneurs, industry leaders, government representatives, and corporate partners from across the country.
The event marked three decades of SME Malaysia’s efforts in supporting entrepreneurs, promoting business growth, and contributing to Malaysia’s economic development. The evening also reflected on the association’s achievements in strengthening the SME ecosystem through policy advocacy, training programmes, market expansion initiatives, and international collaborations.
A key highlight of the celebration was the official launch of the Platinum Business Awards 2026, with nominations set to open on 1 June 2026. This year’s awards carry the theme of governance, digitalisation, and intelligence, and will feature two new categories: the SME Food and Beverages Excellence Award and the SME Manufacturing Excellence Award. The awards aim to recognise businesses that demonstrate excellence in innovation, corporate management, market expansion, and social responsibility while encouraging SMEs to strengthen their brand influence and global competitiveness.
Since its establishment in 1995, SME Malaysia has upheld the spirit of “Unity, Innovation, and Progress”, serving as a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and grow. Over the years, the association has played an important role in helping SMEs navigate challenges and seize new opportunities in an increasingly competitive business environment.
Speaking at the event, Malaysia’s Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives, Steven Sim Chee Keong, said SME Malaysia has served as a vital bridge between industry and government for the past three decades.
He noted that SMEs remain a key pillar of the Malaysian economy, creating employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. He added that the government will continue supporting SME development through policies and initiatives aimed at strengthening competitiveness and long-term growth.
SME Malaysia National President Dr. Chin Chee Seong said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the association’s journey of growth and resilience while reaffirming its commitment to empowering entrepreneurs through advocacy, training, and international engagement.
Dato Sri Ricky Yaw Chan Choy, National Deputy President of SME Association of Malaysia, also noted that the past thirty years have been filled with countless stories of SME perseverance, breakthroughs, and achievements, and have been a testament to the Association’s unwavering support.
“From humble beginnings to robust growth, from local operations to international expansion, the Association has always carried its mission, serving as a steadfast pillar for SMEs. Tonight’s celebration is not only a reflection on our past but also a new beginning. Let us move forward with courage and confidence, continuing to innovate, collaborate, and build a stronger, more competitive SME ecosystem.”
Datuk Wira Richard Lau Chi Chiang, Organising Chairman of the Platinum Business Awards 2026, announced the official launch of the awards, which aim to recognise enterprises that demonstrate excellence in innovation, corporate management, market expansion, and social responsibility, while encouraging SMEs nationwide to showcase their strengths and potential in enhancing brand influence and international competitiveness.
“In addition, this year we will also organise the SME PBA Roadshow, bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from around the world to provide Malaysian SMEs with a platform for collaboration, market expansion, and international opportunities,” he said.
Looking ahead, SME Malaysia said it will continue helping businesses embrace digitalisation, sustainability, and internationalisation, while creating more opportunities for Malaysian SMEs to expand and thrive in both regional and global markets.
Separately, during its Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on the same day, members unanimously approved a revision to the association’s lifetime membership fee, increasing it from RM2,050 to RM3,500, with the effective date to be announced later. The adjustment is intended to strengthen the association’s operational capacity, enhance member services, and support a wider range of initiatives including training programmes, business matching activities, policy advocacy efforts, and networking platforms. Members also approved the relocation of SME Malaysia’s office to Quill City Mall, Kuala Lumpur.
For more info, please visit www.smemalaysia.org
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