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PETALING JAYA: Ambank Group expects a slowdown in the growth of loans for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the range of 6.0-7.0 per cent this year.

The growth will be fuelled by the diverse array of businesses operating within the SME sector.

Ambank Group chief executive officer Datuk Sulaiman Mohd Tahir said the bank has consistently achieved double-digit growth for the last eight years in its SME loan segmentation.

"This year it may dip slightly, but I still believe it will remain the major engine of growth for AmBank and hopefully this will pick up in the second half of 2024.

"I hope we can sustain this double-digit growth, as SMEs are an essential business sector for Malaysia, whether it is in food and beverages, manufacturing, services, or other areas," he told reporters at the AmBank SME BizCONFERENCE here today.

Sulaiman said financing for SMEs carries a one to two per cent higher interest rate than the overall industry due to the diversity of businesses, which are not only focused on local markets but also involve exports and more.

He said private consumption is largely driven by SMEs, particularly in the food and beverage (F&B) sector.

AmBank said the Biz CONFERENCE is a platform offering knowledge, networking opportunities, and media coverage to every business looking to reach new heights and transform their business

"The SME BizCONFERENCE features key trends by keynote speakers in the financing, environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) agendas, smart automation and 5G sectors.

Attended by 300 SME leaders, the event included three engaging panel discussions that shared valuable insights, strategies, and best practices.

"Through the event, AmBank aims to provide Malaysian SMEs with an understanding of key trends to help them future-proof their businesses and stay ahead," the bank said.

Ambank BizCLUB platform has provided support to more than 12,000 SMEs through their events as well as AmBank BizRACE - an annual business competition.

The conference also provided a networking platform for the SME community, allowing business owners to connect with subject matter experts and leaders of homegrown brands who have achieved regional and global success.

Source: https://www.nst.com.my/business/2023/09/954414/expect-slower-sme-loans-2023-still-growth-engine-ambank