Malaysia’s central bank Bank Negara Malaysia announced on Friday an additional MYR5 billion ($1.22 billion) will be allocated for the SME Stabilisation Relief Facility (SME SRF).

The additional allocation is expected to benefit around another 9,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) including
microenterprises to have access to affordable working capital, Bank Negara said in a statement following the tabling of Budget 2027.

This will help SMEs manage temporary cash-flow pressures, maintain operations, and strengthen business resilience amid the economic impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict, the central bank said.

As at 30 Sept 30, 2026, MYR3.8 billion in financing under the facility’s initial RM5 billion allocation has already been approved, benefiting more than 6,800 SME accounts.

The SME SRF will remain available to affected SMEs across all economic sectors until June 30, 2027 or full utilization, whichever is earlier.

Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour said Budget 2027 has reflected a balanced approach that continues to advance important reforms while supporting households and businesses amid ongoing global uncertainties.

The budget placed greater emphasis on strengthening Malaysia’s economic resilience, raising incomes, improving healthcare affordability and supporting productive investment, while preserving fiscal discipline.

Going forward, the key challenge will be to ensure that productivity, innovation and investment continue to strengthen alongside rising incomes so that growth remains sustainable and benefits are shared broadly, he added.

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