Tenom: The Sabah Government has introduced an innovative loan package under the Empowerment Opportunity Initiative for Women Entrepreneurs (Dayang) Programme to boost women’s entrepreneurship, providing financial support, training and networking opportunities for young female business owners.
The initiative, a collaboration between the Sabah Institute of Development Studies (IDS) and the Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC), aims to address key challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, including limited access to funding, training and professional networks.
Speaking at the launch of the Empowering Young Women Entrepreneurs of Sabah programme at Dewan Datuk Seri Panglima Antenom, SCC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Taitim Tulas said the scheme offers interest-free loans with flexible repayment terms to ease financial burdens for start-ups.
“However, timely repayment is mandatory and late payments will incur penalties to ensure sustainability for future entrepreneurs,” said Taitim.
The programme also looks into financial literacy and digital skills, equipping participants with knowledge in digital marketing and cybersecurity, essential in today’s tech-driven economy.
Three key objectives include connecting women entrepreneurs to share ideas and form strategic partnerships, providing business development tools, funding, and government assistance and enhancing digital literacy for better market reach and security.
Taitim thanked the State Government for its backing and pointed out SCC’s partnerships with Bank Negara Malaysia, MCMC, PayNet and Progressive Insurance Berhad to promote cashless transactions and business expansion.
As part of its corporate social responsibility, the SCC donated RM65, 331 for a gravity pipe project in Kampung Mas Melalap and RM41,455 for Minining Paguokon to improve local infrastructure.
Taitim added that the Dayang Programme reflects the government’s commitment to impactful policies, serving as a potential case study for improving public agency efficiency in economic empowerment.
With continued support, Sabah aims to nurture more competitive, innovative women entrepreneurs, contributing to the State and nation’s economic growth.
