Rural Social Enterprises Key to Inclusive and Sustainable Development

3 November 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Minister of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperative, (MEDC) Datuk Ewon Benedick has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening Malaysia’s social enterprise ecosystem, describing rural social enterprises as vital drivers of inclusive and sustainable growth.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Rural Social Enterprise Gathering 2025 held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Ewon praised the creativity, resilience, and determination of rural communities in Sabah, which continue to find innovative ways to improve livelihoods and uplift entire communities.

“We have seen how traditional knowledge, when combined with innovative approaches, can blossom into social enterprises that transform lives and uplift entire communities,” he said.

Ewon expressed his appreciation to the event organiser, Sabah Creative Economy and Innovation Centre (SCENIC), as well as to all participants, speakers, and partners for their contribution to the success of the gathering.

He highlighted that social enterprises have been identified as one of the key priorities under the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13), as part of the government’s efforts to strengthen the nation’s third sector, encompassing social impact organisations, cooperatives, and community-based initiatives.

Through MEDC and its agency, the Institut Keusahawanan Negara (INSKEN), the ministry is implementing a range of programmes to enhance the capabilities, networks, and recognition of social enterprises nationwide.

“Together with INSKEN, we are working to empower social enterprises across Malaysia through capacity-building and accreditation programmes, ensuring they have the right tools, networks, and recognition to grow sustainably and make a real impact in their communities,” Ewon said.

To date, INSKEN has invested approximately RM3 million in capacity-building initiatives, sponsorships, and collaborative programmes to nurture and support social enterprises, particularly those rooted in rural and community-based innovation.

Ewon described social enterprises not merely as businesses but as “vital agents of change” that contribute to Malaysia’s inclusive and sustainable development goals.

He also shared that MEDC recently led a Malaysian delegation, including representatives from Sabah and Sarawak, to the Social Enterprise World Forum in Taipei, showcasing Malaysia’s growing leadership in the social entrepreneurship movement.

“This global platform showed that Malaysia’s social entrepreneurs are ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with changemakers from around the world, sharing our unique stories, solutions, and spirit of community,” he said.

Ewon commended SCENIC for its role in nurturing rural innovation and connecting local talents to broader opportunities. He also acknowledged the leadership of Viviantie Sarjuni, who led SCENIC before taking up a new role with INSKEN.

“The success we see today is the seed you planted before joining INSKEN,” Ewon said.

He emphasised that the friendships, partnerships, and ideas formed during the gathering represent “the seeds of hope for a brighter, more inclusive future,” adding that every social enterprise and rural initiative contributes to a Sabah “where communities thrive, voices are heard, and opportunities are shared.”

“As we leave this gathering, let us carry with us the stories, energy, and inspiration we have witnessed. Let us continue to support our rural communities, nurture their talents, and create spaces where every voice no matter how small, is valued and empowered,” he concluded.

Also present at the event were Hassan Mahali, Permanent Secretary 1, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI), Doria Tai Yun Tyng, Deputy Permanent Secretary 1, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (KSTI) Larainn Jaminih and Uliantie Sarjuni, Acting CEO of Scenic, Gerry Higgins, Founder and Managing Director of Social Enterprise World Forum, Datuk Mustaffa Kamil Ayub, Chairman, Board of Trustees, National Institute of Entrepreneurship (INSKEN), Viviantie Sarjuni, CEO of National Institute of Entrepreneurship (INSKEN), Margaret McSporran, Scottish Government representative and Farahanis Zamri, Talent Acquisition of Yayasan Peneraju.