By Fitri Hazim Hazam
SHAH ALAM, Aug 25 — The state government will focus on developing Selangor’s entrepreneurs through the creative economy, to make it more sustainable and progressive.
Newly-appointed state executive councillor for entrepreneurial development Najwan Halimi said this is crucial for providing opportunities, innovation, and empowerment for entrepreneurs, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“Upon my appointment (to the portfolio), as one of my key performance indicators, the development of the creative economy adaptable to changing trends and times will be one of my main focuses.
“Entrepreneurial businesses can no longer rely solely on conventional concepts like the need for brick-and-mortar premises and shops but are shifting towards digitisation, where online businesses from home can generate income; something I intend to emphasise,” he said.
Najwan added that he plans to hold engagement sessions with stakeholders and state agencies in the near future, to gather insights on how to best empower local entrepreneurs.
“It is vital for us to identify outstanding issues from the previous administration and urgent needs among entrepreneurs.
“In so doing, we can identify the development plans for entrepreneurs and explore new potentials, which will be announced before the (2024 Selangor) Budget presentation session,” he said.
Najwan was speaking at the ceremony to hand over the portfolio’s duties, which he received from his immediate predecessor Rodziah Ismail at the State Secretariat Building yesterday.
On her part, Rodziah, who also held the portfolio for housing and urban welfare from 2020 to 2023, said she hopes Najwan can continue the development of state entrepreneurs via the Selangor State Micro Entrepreneur Development Strategic Action Plan 2022 – 2026, and establish a state-level Entrepreneurship Corporation.
