SIRIM distributes RM20 million in funds for 150 SMEs

SIRIM Bhd has distributed RM20 million in funds through the SIRIM-Fraunhofer programme for 150 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for this year.

Its President/Group Chief Executive of SIRIM, Prof Ir Dr Ahmad Fadzil Mohamad Hani, said the programme, in partnership with Fraunhofer Institute of German, would enable SMEs to boost their productivity using new technology.

"SIRIM contributes 80 percent to the fund which comes from the government and 20 percent are from the SMEs. The funds are given to them according to their needs.

"The programme is very successful where some of the companies have successfully penetrated the international market and their productivity has also improved after joining the programme," he said.

Ahmad Fadzil said this to reporters after the SIRIM-Fraunhofer Programme Appreciation Ceremony and the signing of the memoranda of understanding (MOUs) here on Sunday.

SIRIM signed seven MOUs with various parties including institutions of higher learning and private companies to enhance cooperation in technology and commercialisation.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Datuk Seri Panglima Wilfred Madius Tangau witnessed the ceremony.

Ahmad Fadzil since its introduction in 2015, 472 SMEs had undergone technology audits through the programme.

"Of the number, 337 companies have undergone various levels of implementation of the intervention projects through recommended technology adaptation and through this programme the problems experienced by SMEs can be identified through technology audits," he said.

He said among the technology intervention solutions and innovations implemented were the adaptation of new technologies in product development and processes including prototype testing, enhancement of production processes and the development of competence in technology management and innovation. -- Bernama