THE LAUNCHING OF EMPOWERING YOUNG WOMEN ENTREPRENEURS PROGRAMME
KOTA KINABALU (MONDAY): The Institute for Development Studies (Sabah) (IDS), in collaboration with the Sabah Credit Corporation (SCC), will launch the Empowering Young Women Entrepreneurs Programme, a significant initiative designed to support young women in entrepreneurship. This programme aims to enhance their competitiveness and strengthen their role in the state's economic development. The launch event is scheduled for Thursday, 27 February 2025, at Kinabatangan Hall 3, Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu. In a statement today, IDS Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ts. Dr. Ramzah Dambul highlighted that the programme is part of the state government’s initiative to increase young women’s participation in entrepreneurship by providing them with better access to capital and business mentorship.
"Young women in Sabah often face significant challenges, including limited access to capital, technology, markets, and support networks. This programme offers micro-financing at a highly competitive interest rate of just 1.6% per annum, making it more attractive than other financing schemes. Additionally, participants will benefit from entrepreneurship training, business mentorship, and marketing strategy guidance to help them expand their businesses," he said.
This initiative aligns with the Sabah State Budget 2025, which provides financial incentives and capital assistance for young women entrepreneurs. "The objective is to ensure that businesses owned by young women become more resilient and competitive in the market," he added.
The financing fund will be jointly managed by IDS and SCC, with a strong focus on effective implementation and maximising its impact on the target group, particularly in empowering young women entrepreneurs across Sabah.
The programme is expected to attract 300 participants, including representatives from business associations, young women entrepreneurs, department heads, and students from colleges and universities. For further information, please contact Programme Coordinator, Mdm. Anita Limjoon, via email at anita.limjoon@ids.org.my or call 088-450500.
