GOPENG: Perak recorded a 100% repayment rate in Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) loans by over 33,000 entrepreneurs, according to Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu.
He commended the borrowers’ attitude, saying they had set a good example, “a role model” for others who similarly want to have access to such microfinancing.
“When you make your repayment promptly, the money can be used to assist others in turn. It is a positive cycle,” he said while launching the AIM entrepreneurs fiesta held at the Rural Transformation Centre here today.
AIM is a private trust that serves as a microfinance institution for needy and low-income households that want to improve their livelihood through venturing into micro-enterprises.
Perak AIM, which operates in three regions – Perak Utara, Perak Tengah and Perak Selatan – has disbursed RM241.45 mil in total financing to date.
Ahmad Faizal said the government highly recommends AIM entrepreneurs to take advantage of advancements in technology not only to improve their productivity and services but also their marketing in the digital economy.
“Nowadays, you don’t necessarily have to open a shop or stall to start a business because you can sell, market directly online through applications such as GrabFood and Food Panda.
“This has opened up a huge market for food entrepreneurs. Perhaps soon, orders will be delivered using drones. This is all possible with the speed of technology,” he said. – Feb 23, 2020, Bernama
