SME Venture Launch Highlights ASEAN’s Economic Potential

17 October 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: The Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (MEDC), Datuk Ewon Benedick, stressed on the importance of regional collaboration and the vital role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in fostering ASEAN’s economic growth during the official launch of SME Venture @ ASEAN 2025. The event, held at the Malaysia International Trade Exhibition Centre (MITEC), was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Zahid Hamidi, reflecting its strategic significance for Malaysia’s regional economic agenda.

In his speech, Ewon welcomed the Deputy Prime Minister’s presence, describing it as a powerful testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening ASEAN’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and empowering MSMEs as a key driver of regional development. He expressed his sincere appreciation to all participants and stakeholders for their involvement in the three-day event.

As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, Ewon highlighted the nation’s renewed vigour in embracing the Global South market under the theme of “Inclusivity and Sustainability”.

He reaffirmed Malaysia’s dedication to unlocking ASEAN SMEs’ export potential, a commitment already demonstrated through recent initiatives, including the successful organisation of the Eighth ASEAN Inclusive Business Forum (AIBF) in September.

The forum brought together regional experts and industry leaders championing inclusive business models that prioritise marginalised communities, setting the stage for the objectives of SME Venture @ ASEAN 2025.

He called on the region to move beyond discussions and translate shared visions into tangible outcomes, fostering a more dynamic, competitive, and unified ASEAN market.

The launch of SME Venture @ ASEAN 2025, organised by SME Corporation Malaysia, aligns with this vision. Under the theme “Bringing ASEAN Closer to You,” the flagship programme aims to serve as a strategic platform offering substantial opportunities and acting as a guiding compass for ASEAN’s future development.

According to him, the event has brought together over 350 exhibitors from ASEAN countries and beyond, showcasing a diverse range of sectors including electronics, biotechnology, green energy, halal technology, drone and aerospace, and smart farming. The exhibition features both a Business-to-Business (B2B) showcase of 214 export-ready SMEs and a Business-to-Consumer (B2C) Market Fair, which presents over 130 products ranging from food and beverages to handicrafts and travel deals, in line with Malaysia’s Visit Year 2026 initiative.

To bolster regional trade, more than 300 business matching sessions are scheduled, connecting SMEs with over 50 industry anchors, government-linked companies, and trade partners from countries such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Myanmar, Singapore, the Philippines, Mexico, France, and Italy.

These sessions are designed to facilitate strategic partnerships, integrate supply chains, and create cross-border business opportunities, he said.

The event also features a forum on Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) practices with approximately 200 participants, as well as pitching sessions on equity financing, export assistance, and other insights that foster a vibrant ecosystem of trade enablers and business linkages, all aimed at driving regional growth.

In addition, the ASEAN SME Forum 2025, organised in collaboration with the Small and Medium Enterprises Association Malaysia (SAMENTA) aims to enhance SME support through dialogue, collaboration, and knowledge sharing among 400 entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, and investors from across ASEAN, focusing on inclusive business practices, sustainability, and the role of SMEs in fostering innovation and resilience.

He urged SMEs to seize these opportunities, encouraging them to connect, grow, and turn potential into progress. He extended his gratitude to the organising committee, partners, sponsors, and all participants, emphasising that their collective efforts are vital in building a prosperous and resilient ASEAN.

He also paid special thanks to sponsors including Perodua, Pos Malaysia Berhad, Bubbles O2 Sdn. Bhd., and Toshiba Tec Sdn. Bhd., recognising their contributions as commitments to shaping a sustainable future for SMEs.

Concluding his address, the minister called on all stakeholders to fully capitalise on this platform to strengthen networks, access new markets, and support entrepreneurs in excelling regionally and globally. With Malaysia leading ASEAN’s efforts, he expressed his best wishes for the continued success of SMEs and the overall prosperity of the region.