Lim Guan Eng Urges BSN to Channel MSME Loans

KUALA LUMPUR, June 2 – Bagan MP Lim Guan Eng has proposed that RM100 million in loans for Chinese‑owned MSMEs and RM50 million under Tekun Nasional for Indian‑owned MSMEs be channelled through Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) instead of SME Bank or Bank Rakyat. Lim argued that Shariah‑compliant requirements imposed by these institutions restrict access for non‑Muslim businesses in sectors such as food and beverage, traditional Chinese medicine and entertainment.

MSME Loans

He noted that Malay‑focused financing under Tekun Nasional is not subject to similar restrictions, raising fairness concerns. Lim said BSN, with its 387 branches nationwide compared to SME Bank’s 17 and Bank Rakyat’s 148, offers wider accessibility and allows customers to choose between Islamic and conventional banking. He stressed that placing the loans under BSN would ensure equal financing access for all MSMEs, regardless of religion, and promote more equitable economic opportunities across communities.

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