Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 20 January 2025, a delegation from Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Economy and Finance visited SME Corporation Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The visit included a meeting between Umid Abidkhadjaev, Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance and Director of the Institute for Macroeconomic and Regional Studies under Uzbekistan’s Cabinet of Ministers, and Rizal Dato’ Nainy, CEO of SME Corporation Malaysia.

SME Corporation Malaysia (SME Corp. Malaysia) is the main coordinating agency under Malaysia’s Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives. Its primary mission is implementing national programs to support and develop small and medium enterprises (SMEs), of which there are over 1.1 million in the country.

The agency focuses on coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating the effectiveness of SME support programs. It is also actively involved in international initiatives aimed at strengthening the position of SMEs both domestically and globally. Key areas of SME Corp.’s work include organizing training programs and facilitating technical cooperation.

During the meeting, the agency introduced its programs addressing workforce shortages by boosting productivity through automation and digitalization, as well as its initiatives in professional training within the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) system.

Discussions focused on the development of SMEs, with particular emphasis on sharing experiences in implementing programs supported by relevant ministries and agencies. The importance of adopting flexible business models, such as the gig economy, and adapting to digital transformation was highlighted.

Special attention was given to prospects for joint efforts to enhance SME competitiveness. The parties explored the potential introduction of tools like the ESG Quick Guide and the SME Competitiveness Rating for Enhancement (SCORE) system in Uzbekistan. They also discussed organizing joint training sessions and programs tailored to the needs of local and international markets.

As a result of the meeting, both sides identified areas for further cooperation, including the organization of joint educational programs and webinars to share experiences and best practices.