The “Let’s Engage: Networking, Knowledge & Opportunities” programme strengthens the UTHM entrepreneurial ecosystem and community!

Batu Pahat, 22 October 2025 — Approximately 30 entrepreneurs, comprising students, alumni, university spin-off companies, and members of the Batu Pahat community, participated in the Let’s Engage programme organised by Johor Business School (JBS) in collaboration with SME Bank Malaysia Berhad. The programme was held at the Banquet Hall, Tunku Tun Aminah Library (PTTA), Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM).

The programme served as a collaborative platform to provide participants with access to financing opportunities, business growth strategies, and insights into the application of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in business operations.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Shafie Mohamed Zabri, Dean of JBS, said entrepreneurs require strong networks and the right support ecosystem to grow and remain competitive. He added that strategic collaboration between academic institutions and industry players is crucial in nurturing sustainable entrepreneurship.

Meanwhile, SME Bank Malaysia Berhad representative, Ms. Rohaida Aris, reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through inclusive financing solutions and digital transformation initiatives.

Malaysia currently has more than 97 per cent SMEs; however, only an estimated 15 to 20 per cent are adequately prepared to face digital challenges, underscoring the importance of programmes such as Let’s Engage in strengthening future-ready entrepreneurship.

The programme also featured a “Pocket Talk” session with industry experts, consultation sessions with SME Bank, CEDAR, TEKUN and Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN), and concluded with a networking session aimed at fostering new collaboration opportunities among participants.