Maybank today announced the launch of SME Perkasa, a targeted financing initiative to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) manage rising costs and cash flow pressures in an increasingly demanding operative environment. The Bank is committing MYR 1 billion (approx $254 million) in approvals over the next 12 months, with each eligible business able to access financing of up to RM1 million and a six-month principal payment deferment. A defining feature of SME Perkasa is its speed of access. Eligible SMEs can receive disbursements within 48 hours upon full document execution, enabled by a dedicated fast-track credit assessment workflow that draws on customers' existing transaction and banking relationship data with Maybank to accelerate evaluation. This allows SMEs to respond quickly to immediate cash flow needs and operational pressures, without compromising on credit discipline. The initiative is available to existing Maybank SME customers across 10 priority sectors affected by the current environment — including logistics, wholesale distribution, construction, food supply chains, fabricated metals and industrial goods, petrol station dealers, agriculture, furniture, machinery importers, and courier services. SME customers from other sectors may also apply, subject to assessment. SME Perkasa builds on Maybank's sustained commitment to the segment. Group Community Financial Services loans in Malaysia grew 6.7% year-on-year in FY25, reflecting continued momentum in serving SMEs. The initiative also aligns with Maybank's broader ambition under its ROAR30 strategy to mobilise RM100 billion (approx. $25 million) in SME financing by 2030, reinforcing the Bank's role in supporting the backbone of the Malaysian economy. "SMEs are navigating a far more demanding operating environment today, with rising costs and tighter cash flows becoming immediate concerns. In such conditions, access to financing alone is not enough—speed of access is equally critical. With SME Perkasa, we are prioritising both, ensuring businesses can obtain the funding they need within 48 hours, alongside the advisory support to help them respond decisively and stay resilient," said Syed Ahmad Taufik Albar, Group CEO, Community Financial Services, Maybank. In addition to SME Perkasa, the Bank is offering other financial relief options for both individual and SME customers under the Maybank Financial Relief Scheme. Beyond financing, Maybank SME customers can draw on the Bank’s business advisory support and network of agency partnerships — including with CGC, SJPP, AKPK, LHDN, MATRADE, and MIDA — as part of the Bank’s ecosystem-based approach to raise the floor for SMEs with the capital, guidance, and relationships needed to help businesses remain resilient. Applications for SME Perkasa are now open. Eligible SMEs are encouraged to apply early to benefit from the fast-tracked financing support. For more information, SMEs can visit maybank.my/smeperkasa or reach out to their relationship managers. Re-disseminated by The Asian Banker
