Budget 2027: Government earmarks RM60m for Matrade, RM1b to boost MSME exports

The Malaysian government has announced significant financial commitments for 2027 to bolster local companies' capacity to enter overseas markets and support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in exploring export opportunities. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim revealed that RM60 million will be earmarked for the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) to bolster the capacity of local businesses to access and diversify into international markets.

Anwar also disclosed that Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) will prepare a substantial RM1 billion fund to aid MSMEs in their export endeavors. This financial support will be supplemented by the Malaysia government, the civil servants' pension fund KWAP, and the establishment of a RM50 million UNIVC fund. This fund aims to facilitate the translation of university research into marketable products and services.

The budget also includes RM142 million for the NADI platform, which has proven instrumental in supporting numerous young entrepreneurs through e-commerce. A notable success story is that of coffee entrepreneur Azmi Warisan from Kampung Sungai Leman, Selangor, who reported an 80% increase in revenue, amounting to RM240,000, after leveraging the NADI platform.

Furthermore, the government has set aside RM10 million for JOM Malaysia, an initiative designed to introduce rural products and high-value services to digital platforms and international markets. In alignment with the low-altitude economy, particularly sectors involving drone technology, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) will invest RM50 million in developing a digital system to manage airspace, conduct national testing, and establish safety standards.