RHB INVESTS RM1.5 MLN THROUGH #JOMBIZ TO EMPOWER 1,000 MSMES AND STRENGTHEN GROWTH

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 5 (Bernama) -- RHB Banking Group is strengthening inclusive micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) growth through its RHB #JomBiz programme, which has supported over 1,000 microentrepreneurs across Malaysia with investments exceeding RM1.5 million since 2022.

RHB Bank group managing director and group chief executive officer Datuk Mohd Rashid Mohamad said the programme is designed to equip microentrepreneurs with practical knowledge, financial tools and market‑relevant capabilities that support sustainable business growth.

To provide a clear picture of the programme’s impact since its launch from 2022 to 2025, Mohd Rashid said seven cohorts have been implemented, empowering 1,073 microentrepreneurs, of whom 137 received funding, with the programme achieving a completion rate of 84 per cent.

“We also ensure that participants get real market exposure - since March 2023, 13 #JomBiz Bazaars have been organised to help participants build their brand and customer confidence.

“More importantly, almost 40 per cent of the selected participants have received The Star Outstanding Business Awards (SOBA) recognition for the micro business category, and in 2024, this programme was also recognised by the Association of Banks of Malaysia (ABM) under the Inclusive Economic Growth category,” he said while giving his welcome speech at the RHB #JomBiz Awards 2026 here today.

Mohd Rashid said RHB's role in #JomBiz is not just as a funder, but also as a long-term partner by opening up access to training; mentoring and a support network; and providing opportunities for participants to continue to grow even after the programme ends.

He said the programme was part of RHB's strategy known as PROGRESS27, which is committed to empowering 2.5 million individuals and businesses across ASEAN by 2027, adding that as of the end of 2025, RHB had empowered nearly 1.5 million individuals from over 30,000 MSMEs through various programmes and initiatives.

On another note, Mohd Rashid said the bank is aiming to expand RHB #JomBiz beyond the Klang Valley, focusing on Johor and Sarawak, to reach more microentrepreneurs in underserved communities nationwide this year.

He said the programme will continue prioritising the B40 and asnaf communities, single parents and persons with disabilities, reinforcing RHB’s commitment to inclusive economic participation. 

“The initiative supports RHB’s broader aspiration to empower 2.5 million individuals and businesses across ASEAN by 2027,” he said.

-- BERNAMA