Digitalisation Helps Businesses, Local Entrepreneurs Develop More Effectively -- MDEC

KUALA LUMPUR, May 6 (Bernama) -- Digitalisation boosts the development of traditional businesses and expands global reach for local entrepreneurs, according to Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC). 

MDEC digital services director Mohd Redzuan Affandi said that with the convenience and advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and its new emerging technologies, setting up an online business will be easier than operating traditional businesses.

 “With the sophistication and ease of AI technology today, locally made potato chips can reach as far as London. 

“For those who are looking to know more, MDEC have more programmes under our recently launched ‘business digitalisation initiative’,” he said during a panel discussion at the CTOS SME Biz Day 2025 event here today. 

Additionally, Small and Medium Enterprises Association Malaysia (SAMENTA) president Datuk William Ng noted that the use of AI among small and medium enterprises (SMEs) abroad has been widely adopted, such as among local entrepreneurs in Taiwan.

 “In fact, when we went to a small food stall, the owners were talking about AI. 

“So, it seems as if the Taiwanese government has told all the businesses to use AI, which (shows) how important AI is as a transformation tool for SMEs moving forward,” he said.

Meanwhile, SME Corporation Malaysia chief executive officer Rizal Nainy said SMEs are encouraged to look beyond their current main markets and explore new opportunities through international trade agreements.

“Market diversification is not only relying on your best market, (as) we now have BRICS, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, and the European Free Trade Association.

“So, please do understand or know about these free trade agreements, regional and economic cooperations, because that will (be beneficial) especially if there are SME chapters,” he added. 

-- BERNAMA