SME Corp. Malaysia and CapBay Launch BERKAT Programme: Government Allocates RM30 Million Subsidised Programme to Fuel Festive Financing

Yesterday, the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP) set a new benchmark for public-private partnerships in the MSME sector. During an official ceremony at SME Corp. Malaysia, the Program Pembiayaan Khas Untuk Perusahaan Milikan Cina (BERKAT) was launched, providing a massive financial boost to Malaysian Chinese-owned micro and small enterprises (MSMEs) ahead of the 2026 Chinese New Year.

The event was officiated by Yang Berhormat Steven Sim Chee Keong, Minister of KUSKOP, who highlighted the government’s “ABCD strategy,” which focuses on accelerating productivity and improving capital accessibility through targeted SME Corp Malaysia financing initiatives to help local businesses scale sustainably.

Unlocking Massive Liquidity: How the Rebate Works

The BERKAT Programme is a strategic collaboration between SME Corp. Malaysia and CapBay, where a RM30 million financing pool is allocated to support eligible businesses with their funding needs. This initiative aims to provide essential liquidity to MSMEs, ensuring they have the capital required to thrive during peak business seasons.

Under this initiative, SME Corp. Malaysia provides a rebate of 9% p.a., enabling CapBay to offer low-interest SME financing in Malaysia at a highly competitive net rate of just 3% p.a. This innovative structure allows MSMEs to access significantly lower financing rates, supporting thousands of MSMEs with affordable liquidity when they need it most.

Everything You Need to Know About Program BERKAT

The BERKAT programme is designed to provide rapid, affordable working capital for businesses to manage festive inventory, operational costs, and seasonal payroll.

1. Key Programme Features

Relying solely on a bank loan or one investor can leave your business vulnerable. Consider a mix of financing options such as:

• Net Interest Rate: Only 3% p.a. (enabled by the 9% p.a. government rebate).
• Financing Amount: Up to RM30,000 per business.
• Collateral: Zero collateral required, enabling SME financing without collateral
• Waivers: Full waiver of all platform and processing fees.
• Tenure: Flexible repayment options of up to 24 months.

2. Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the support reaches the right businesses, the following criteria apply:

• Equity Ownership: At least 51% Malaysian Chinese ownership.
• Business Scale: Registered as a Micro or Small Enterprise with SSM.
• Business Activity: Open to all legal business activities EXCEPT for:
  • Primary Agriculture
  • Financial Services
  • Insurance
  • Real Estate 
  • Dealing in Securities
    

This initiative specifically supports Chinese-owned SME financing in Malaysia, strengthening access to capital for Malaysian Chinese MSMEs nationwide.

3. Use of Funds

Businesses can utilise this financing for:

• Festive Stocking: Purchasing raw materials and inventory for CNY.
• Operational Liquidity: Premise rent, utility payments, and employee salaries.
• Contract Fulfilment: Bridging cash flow for Purchase Orders (PO) or Letter of Acceptance (SST).

Fast-Track Application via CapBay

As the appointed P2P financing facilitator, CapBay offers a digital-first application process designed to bypass traditional banking red tape.

• Apply Online: Visit the CapBay BERKAT Portal to start.
• Submit Documentation: Upload your NRIC, SSM status, and latest 6 months’ bank statements.
• Swift Approval: Applications are typically processed within 5-7 working days.
• Funds Disbursed: Once the offer is accepted, funds are disbursed within 2 business days.
  

Businesses looking to apply for financing in Malaysia can complete the entire online financing application without traditional banking delays.

Limited Allocation: Apply Early

The RM30 million government subsidised financing programme allocation is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Eligible MSMEs are strongly encouraged to apply early through the CapBay BERKAT Programme to secure access to this low-cost financing opportunity.

CapBay extends its appreciation to KUSKOP and SME Corp. Malaysia for their leadership and trust in facilitating this critical SME financing solution, supporting business resilience and festive economic growth across Malaysia.

Interested to learn more about our SME Financing Solutions?

*The information provided in this article is based on the current tax laws and regulations at the time of publication. As tax laws and deadlines may change, it is advisable to consult with the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDN) or a professional tax advisor for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding your specific circumstances.