Maybank has strengthened its support for Malaysian small and medium enterprises (SMEs) affected by the ongoing West Asia conflict by expanding access to financial assistance and engaging directly with industry associations to address concerns on the ground.
The bank recently held a dialogue session with several business groups, including the Small and Medium Enterprises Association of Malaysia (SAMENTA), the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), Dewan Perniagaan Melayu Malaysia (DPMM), the Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM), the KL & Selangor Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KLSICCI) and the Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM).
The engagement forms part of Maybank’s efforts to ensure businesses are aware of available relief measures while gathering feedback from sectors impacted by the geopolitical tensions.
Among the initiatives offered is Maybank SME Perkasa, a rapid financing programme launched on 12 May for businesses affected by the conflict. The facility offers financing disbursement within 48 hours upon completion of documentation requirements.
Existing SME customers may also apply for repayment assistance under the bank’s Financial Relief Scheme, with decisions targeted within five working days.
“Guided by our mission to Humanise Financial Services, our commitment to Malaysian SMEs is to move alongside them at every stage of their journey, through the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow,” said Syed Ahmad Taufik Albar, Group CEO, Community Financial Services, Maybank.
In addition, Maybank is facilitating applications for Bank Negara Malaysia’s Stabilisation Relief Facility (SRF), which provides financing of up to RM750,000 for up to five years at a maximum financing rate of 3.75% per annum, inclusive of guarantee fees.
The bank said it has also begun proactively engaging SME customers to discuss available assistance and encouraged businesses facing financial difficulties to seek support early.
As part of its ROAR30 strategy, Maybank said it remains committed to supporting SMEs through financing solutions, ecosystem support and industry engagement, while working towards its target of mobilising RM100 billion to nurture high-impact and high-value industries across Malaysia.
