
KUALA LUMPUR: Nearly 100 entrepreneurs gathered in Kuantan today as the 2025 Platinum Business Awards (PBA) National Roadshow continued its push to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) expand beyond local markets.
The roadshow is part of a nationwide initiative to raise awareness of the annual awards and encourage SMEs to explore growth opportunities beyond their immediate markets.
Bebar assemblyman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff said the arrival of PBA in Kuantan underscores the city's status as a vital economic hub on the East Coast.
He added that this city is home to resilient and forward-thinking entrepreneurs who continue to grow and transform from traditional trades to technology-driven sectors.
"PBA is not just about celebrating success, it serves as a powerful platform to boost visibility, expand networks, and stimulate nationwide SME collaboration," he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, SME Association of Malaysia president Dr Chin Chee Seong said the association continuously strengthens its engagement with the government and relevant agencies to secure greater resources and policy support for SMEs.
He added that through its extensive network of branches across the country, it has built a strong service infrastructure that is truly connected to businesses and closely supports its members.
He also said that the greatest value of the association lies in its ability to provide members with practical and tangible support—not merely information but becoming a trusted partner in their growth journey.
Pahang SME Association president Datuk Simon Wong said the PBA roadshow aims to boost awareness and participation among East Coast businesses.
"For a business to remain sustainable, it must continuously grow, innovate, and transform. In today's rapidly changing environment, we cannot wait for a crisis to take action.
"Entrepreneurs must step out of their comfort zones, embrace new ideas, adopt new technologies and business models, and drive transformation and innovation continuously," he added.
Wong further noted that as we move deeper into the 21st century, artificial intelligence (AI) has become an undeniable force of change.
He said businesses must actively embrace AI and integrate it into all aspects of operations from production, logistics, and sales to finance and management.
He added that the AI transformation is no longer an option but a necessary path for the future of business.
According to PBA 2025 organising chairman Dennix Yeow Wah Fuong, this year's awards include 21 categories, covering sectors such as manufacturing, technology, services, and green transformation.
He encouraged businesses from all industries to take part, adding that it helps them stand out in a competitive market, enhances credibility and reputation, and opens doors to both local and international opportunities.
Guests at the event included Alliance Bank vice president Titan Lee Wen Chieh and Media Prima Bhd business development director Roche Chew.
Nominations for the awards are open until Aug 7.
Source: https://www.nst.com.my/business/corporate/2025/07/1242917/platinum-business-awards-2025-roadshow-gathers-100-entrepreneurs