The Small and Medium Enterprises Association Malaysia (Samenta) has described the recent Cabinet reshuffle as a timely opportunity to strengthen economic governance and accelerate the delivery of policies under the Madani Economy framework.
Its president, Datuk William Ng, said effective execution following the reshuffle would be critical in determining whether Malaysia can address structural weaknesses and enhance its competitiveness in a rapidly changing global environment.
He emphasised that the upcoming 13th Malaysian Plan, scheduled for implementation in 2026, would play a central role in shaping the country’s economic trajectory.
“The success of the 13MP will determine Malaysia’s ability to transition towards a more sustainable and circular economy while reinforcing its role as a dependable regional supply-chain hub,” Ng said.
According to him, Malaysia must place greater emphasis on securing quality investments that deliver long-term benefits rather than focusing solely on headline investment values.
He noted that investments should contribute to the development of new industries, stronger domestic supply chains and higher-value opportunities for SMEs.
Ng also called for faster structural reforms to improve labour productivity, including more aggressive incentives for automation and technology adoption among SMEs.
“Without productivity gains, SMEs will struggle to remain competitive, both domestically and internationally,” he said.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s Cabinet reshuffle involved 28 ministers and deputy ministers, including key changes to economic and development-related portfolios.
Samenta believes the reshuffle offers an opportunity to improve policy coordination across ministries and ensure that economic initiatives are implemented more effectively.
Ng said the association stands ready to support the new ministers in translating Madani Economy principles into practical, measurable outcomes that benefit businesses, workers and the national economy.