KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 (Bernama) – The Women’s Wing of the Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) has called for targeted initiatives to empower Indian women entrepreneurs in the upcoming Budget 2025, including the introduction of green financing options.
Its head, S. Hemala, highlighted the need for sustainability-focused measures, urging the government to introduce green financing to support sustainable and environmentally friendly projects by Indian women entrepreneurs.
“We need support to integrate eco-friendly practices into businesses. Green financing could be a key enabler,” she told Bernama, sharing her wishlist for Budget 2025, which will be tabled by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Oct 18.
Hemala explained that green financing enables businesses to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as sustainable supply chains or waste management systems, by providing affordable access to funds, grants and incentives.
“This type of financing is essential as it aligns economic growth with environmental conservation and long-term sustainability goals,” she said.
Hemala also suggested subsidies for trade fairs and mentorship on exporting, saying initiatives like these could help Indian women entrepreneurs break new ground.
She emphasised the need for digital skills training to help businesses adapt to the online marketplace.
“Besides the existing initiatives, there are a few more things I’d like to see in the upcoming budget. Digital skills training must be a priority,” she said.
“Programmes focused on e-commerce, digital marketing and setting up online platforms would be a huge help,” Hemala added.
She further called for the establishment of dedicated incubation centres for women entrepreneurs.
“Having access to mentors and networking opportunities would be a game-changer,” she said, highlighting how such centres could provide a launchpad for sustainable business growth.
Hemala’s wishlist also includes tax incentives for small businesses and affordable childcare support to help women balance work and family life.
“Balancing business with family life is no small feat. Childcare support would make a real difference,” she pointed out.
– BERNAMA
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