By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
KLANG, June 15 — About 1,200 traders in Selangor are set to receive the RM1,000 Madani Traders Digital Grant to support the digitalisation of their businesses.
State executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Najwan Halimi said the initiative by the federal government will reach every local authority, starting with the Klang Royal City Council.
“This grant will strengthen businesses digitally to boost traders’ competitiveness in the digital economy.
“Previously, the state government focused on entrepreneurs’ creative economy with various agencies. This time, we are facilitating the government’s efforts to aid online business,” he said.
When met after launching the grant, he said 100 people from each local council will receive the benefit, with the number of beneficiaries increasing periodically.
A recipient, S. Santhakumare, 35, said the grant will help her strengthen the postpartum business she started 11 years ago.
“After my divorce, I worked as a clerk and ran my business part time. When business boomed six years ago, I quit my job and focused on the business.
“With this grant, I can grow my enterprise to make it more visible, and add to my income to support my two school-going children,” she said.
Khairin Batrisyia Mohd Nasir, 28, said the grant will help traders who lack modal transition to digital enterprises.
The trader, who runs a business with her siblings selling prayer items and religious books, said her enterprise has been family-run for 20 years and hopes it lasts.
“Since I was little, I have seen how businesses develop, and I recognise the importance of digitalisation. This initiative is good as it helps traders align their businesses to the changing times,” she said.
