KUALA LUMPUR, May 27 — An impactful learning experience that aims to advance business performance and guide entrepreneurs to integrate sustainable practices and solutions in their operations is crucial, to ensure local entrepreneurs are empowered and not left behind.
Deputy Minister of Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development (Kuskop) Saraswathy Kandasami said empowering entrepreneurs and local merchants is of utmost importance to the development of the digital economy in Malaysia.
“These individuals and businesses form the backbone of our economy, and their success and growth are vital for overall prosperity and progress.
“By providing them with the necessary tools, knowledge, and support, we enable them to thrive in the digital age and contribute to the growth of the country,” she said in her special address at the Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant (ECM) Awards 2023 ceremony earlier today.
Moreover, Saraswathy said empowering entrepreneurs and local merchants in the digital economy promotes inclusivity and social development, providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of background or where they come from.
“This inclusivity fosters diversity, empowers under-represented groups and contributes to a more equitable society. It also enables individuals in rural and remote areas to participate in the digital economy, bridging the urban-rural divide and reducing socioeconomic disparities.
“Hence, I strongly encourage aspiring e-commerce merchants to seize this opportunity to enhance their knowledge and equip their businesses with the latest relevant technologies,” she said.
Returning for its eighth edition, the Malaysia Top ECM Awards has exceeded expectations with a total of 602 applications, a 36.8 per cent increase from the previous year.
Of the pool, 360 companies were shortlisted to embark on their journey in this year’s Top ECM event, which features three award categories, namely the Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards, the Selangor E-Commerce Merchant Awards, and the Affin Bank Special Awards.
Saraswathy said the value brought by the Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards, including bespoke contests like online sales and live streams, has helped merchants garner more orders, further boosting their growth.
“Moreover, it is essential that we recognise the immense contribution of women entrepreneurs in our country. Such recognition has a unique force in uplifting women’s status, not only socially but also economically.
“The involvement of women in the business world, particularly in the rapidly evolving e-commerce industry, is crucial. The Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards provide an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs to enhance their skills and thrive in this digitally driven business landscape,” she said.
According to Saraswathy, the Malaysia Top E-Commerce Merchant Awards serves as a crucial platform that not only acknowledges excellence but also plays a pivotal role in advancing sustainable e-commerce development.
“Through this programme, we provide a space for knowledge sharing and collaboration among businesses.
“Recently, Kuskop set forth to launch the Cooperative Digitalisation Action Plan soon to strengthen the digitalisation capabilities of cooperatives because we truly believe that the shift from conventional business to technology adaptation and digitalisation, marketing through digital platforms and online payments are very important in the new business norm,” she said.
— Bernama
