KUALA LUMPUR, May 7 — Malaysia has three main advantages that can ensure the country continues to be resilient and competitive, said Minister of Development of Entrepreneurs and Cooperatives Steven Sim Chee Keong yesterday.
He said these advantages include political stability and a conducive climate, a strategic geographical position and the strength of the human factor among the country’s diverse society.
“In a world hit by various crises, many things are beyond our control but Malaysia has three main ingredients that allow us to continue to succeed,” he said when speaking at the Bisnes Sinar Harian Awards (BISA 2026) here organised by Sinar Harian.
Also present were Karangkraf Chairman Firdaus Hussamuddin and Sinar Karangkraf Chief Executive Officer Farah Hussamuddin.
Sim also said that the country’s political stability and strong leadership are the foundation for investor confidence and economic growth, in addition to Malaysia’s strategic geopolitical and geoeconomic position, which also provides advantages in strengthening international trade and investment relations.
“The third factor is our diverse people, who are fluent in various languages and understand various cultures around the world,” he said.
He also described the organisation of the awards by the Malay-language newspaper, Sinar Harian, as a significant step in recognising the capabilities of local entrepreneurs.
“There are many business awards organised by Chinese-language newspapers that have seen many Malay entrepreneurs succeed… today, I am very proud that the Malay-language newspaper has also taken the initiative to recognise the capabilities of local entrepreneurs, especially Malay entrepreneurs in their respective sectors,” he said.
At the ceremony, a total of 37 awards were presented, including the Global Logistics & Maritime Leader Award, the Entrepreneur Development Leader Award and the Jury’s Choice Award, and Andalusia Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd won the BISA 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award.
Meanwhile, Firdaus said BISA 2026 is a tribute to local entrepreneurs who have high spirit and resilience in facing the current economic challenges.
“Sinar Harian has stood for two decades as a consistent voice bringing the issues, pulse and aspirations of the people including entrepreneurs across the country,” he said.
— BERNAMA
