Image credit: The Malaysian Reserve
SMALL-MEDIUM SME Corp. Malaysia has been playing a vital part in branding campaigns for local small-medium enterprises (SMEs) via the National Mark of Malaysian Brand (NMMB) Programme since 2009.
From early on, SME Corp. Malaysia acknowledged that branding is a critical component for a company to create memorable impressions on consumers, as well as to allow them to know what to expect from the company’s products or services.
As Malaysia relies heavily on exports to fuel its economic growth, the government has also engaged in a branding campaign to promote locally made products and services to allow SMEs to reach more international markets.
Since its inception, NMMB has helped 184 companies to be certified and globally accepted in 24 countries.
SME Corp. Malaysia, CEO Rizal Nainy said the programme is aimed at highlighting the quality, excellence and distinction of Malaysian products and services, as well as to dispel the perception that SME products are of lesser quality.
“These companies not only bring with them good, measurable Malaysian-grown brands, but most importantly that their products and services will stand out as they are now being recognised for three main attributes namely quality, excellence and distinction that have been illustrated with the NMMB certification,” he said in a recent statement.
Acknowledging that some SMEs have had their application rejected for not adhering to terms that have been agreed upon, Rizal said SME Corp. Malaysia has actively embarked on various measures such as outreach sessions and workshops, to help SMEs manage their quality as well as branding efforts.
During these sessions, SME Corp. Malaysia educates SMEs on the importance of the global markets, international standards, best practices, as well as financial assistance to ensure that they stay competitive.
“With the sharing of experience of SMEs that benefitted from the NMMB, we hope more will be inspired and join this programme as it will help in creating a strong brand for SMEs, be it locally or abroad,” added Rizal.
To ensure high standards are maintained, the certification programme is also conducted with SIRIM QAS International Sdn Bhd which audits and monitors all applications. Successful applicants will be allowed to carry the NMMB brand for two years.
The NMMB certification also allows SMEs to gain access to financial incentives, prioritised for trade promotional activities domestically and abroad, as well as participation in various courses and workshops by SME Corp. Malaysia.
For 2022, SME Corp. Malaysia and Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd will conduct outreach programmes and workshops focus- ing on developing and enhancing SMEs’ branding awareness and strategies which will take them to the global market.
For more information on NMMB Programme, visit www.national- mark.gov.my
Source: https://themalaysianreserve.com/2022/10/31/sme-corp-malaysia-elevates-local-brands-with-nmmb-cert/