UEM Edgenta Berhad, a Malaysian asset management and infrastructure solutions company owned by UEM Group, has launched its first Young Entrepreneurship Program (YEP) for six young business owners in its vendor network.

In a statement on Wednesday, UEM Edgenta Berhad said the program can identify, train, and mentor young entrepreneurs. It can also develop vendors per its operational and compliance standards.

The six vendors were selected from UEM Edgenta’s infrastructure solutions and asset management businesses after a multi-stage process. Companies were first assessed against criteria centered on young leadership and business track record. They then underwent desktop audits, pre-assessments, and site visits, benchmarked against the Malaysia Business Excellence Framework.

YEP supports the goal of the 13th Malaysia Plan, including youth empowerment, digital innovation, financial inclusion, and technical and vocational education.

The training combines external and internal modules. The Institut Keusahawanan Negara (INSKEN), the National Institute of Entrepreneurship, will lead training on business model development, leadership, and strategic planning. Participants will receive an INSKEN certificate.

The Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) Malaysia will provide technical training on tendering, contract and financial management, and management systems. UEM Edgenta’s own Edgenta Academy will deliver internal business training.

Shaiful Subhan, managing director and CEO of UEM Edgenta, said the company wants a supplier base that is diverse, competitive and driven by capability and performance. He said opportunities should be earned through commitment, quality and willingness to grow, rather than by how long a company has been in business.

The cohort was kept small to allow intensive mentorship and customized training. It will assess the results of the first intake before deciding on future investment and whether to widen the program to more young entrepreneurs. The program can help young business owners turn innovative ideas into viable ventures that create jobs in their communities.

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